Executive Assistant, Cambridge Conservation Initiative (Part- Time)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Part time

Job summary

The Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) is seeking an exceptional Executive Assistant to provide high‑level support to the Executive Director and contribute to the smooth running of a leading conservation partnership based in the David Attenborough Building, Cambridge.

This part‑time role (4 days per week) offers the chance to manage a demanding calendar, coordinate communications with senior leaders and external partners, arrange international travel, and support governance and meeting

Qualifications

• Substantial experience providing senior administrative support, ideally at director level.
• Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgement.
• Interest in conservation or environmental issues is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage a complex and demanding schedule for the Executive Director.
• Coordinate communications and correspondence with internal and external stakeholders.
• Arrange international travel and related administrative tasks.
• Ensure effective administration of meetings and activities, and follow up actions.
• Support governance activities and take minutes when required.
• Maintain office systems and coordinate team activities.
• Create a welcoming and professional environment for visitors and colleagues.

Job description

The Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) is seeking an exceptional Executive Assistant to provide high-level support to the Executive Director and contribute to the smooth running of one of the world's leading conservation partnerships.

CCI brings together the University of Cambridge and internationally renowned conservation organisations to tackle the global biodiversity crisis through research, education, policy and practice. Based in the iconic David Attenborough Building, CCI is a dynamic and collaborative community working at the forefront of conservation impact.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly organised professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working with senior leaders, academics, external partners and international stakeholders.

As Executive Assistant to the Executive Director, you will manage a complex and demanding schedule, coordinate communications and correspondence, arrange international travel, and ensure the effective administration of meetings and activities. You will play a key role in maximising the Director's time and supporting strategic priorities across the partnership.

Beyond executive support, you will provide administrative and logistical assistance across the CCI team. You will coordinate meeting logistics, prepare documentation, support governance activities, take minutes when required and ensure efficient follow-up of actions. You will also contribute to the effective operation of the Executive Director's Office, helping to maintain office systems, coordinate team activities, support internal communications and create a welcoming and professional environment for visitors and colleagues alike.

The successful candidate will have substantial experience providing senior administrative support, ideally at Director level, together with excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills. You will be able to manage competing priorities, exercise sound judgement, maintain confidentiality and build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. A proactive approach, strong attention to detail and the confidence to work independently are essential. An interest in conservation or environmental issues would be advantageous.

In return, we offer the opportunity to work in a unique partnership environment, supporting influential leaders and contributing to work that addresses some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today.

If you are an experienced Executive Assistant looking for a varied and rewarding role within a globally respected institution, we would be delighted to hear from you.

This is a part‑time role, working 4 days per week.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part‑time working or other flexible working arrangements.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.