Personal Assistant

Service Care Solutions; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government agency in Portsmouth is looking for an experienced Personal Assistant to provide high-level support to the Heads of Children & Families Services. You will manage senior managers' calendars, handle communications, and ensure smooth operations within the team. Ideal candidates will have strong Microsoft Office skills, excellent communication abilities, and experience in sensitive environments. This role is essential in upholding high standards of professionalism and confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Significant experience supporting a Head of Service, Director or Senior Manager.
• Confidence taking minutes at sensitive or complex meetings.
• Ability to work with highly confidential and sometimes emotionally challenging information.

Responsibilities

• Provide proactive PA support to Senior Managers across Children & Families Services.
• Manage complex calendars, meetings, panels and prioritise conflicting demands.
• Liaise professionally with Councillors, partner agencies, and internal/external stakeholders.

Skills

Microsoft Office skills

Strong communication skills

Organisational ability

Problem-solving attitude

Job description

Personal Assistant

Location: Portsmouth
Contract: Initial 6‑month assignment
Hours: 37 hours per week
Rate: £18 per hour (Umbrella) (£14 PAYE an hour)

About the Role

Portsmouth City Council is seeking an experienced Personal Assistant to provide high‑level executive support to the Heads of Children & Families Services. You will join a small, supportive team of PAs who ensure the seamless running of day‑to‑day operations across the Senior Leadership Team.

This is a fast‑paced and highly responsible position requiring exceptional organisational ability, attention to detail and the confidence to manage sensitive information and complex workloads.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide proactive PA support to Senior Managers across Children & Families Services
• Manage complex calendars, meetings, panels and prioritise conflicting demands
• Handle email inboxes, correspondence and communications on behalf of senior leaders
• Coordinate the Children's Social Care FOI (Freedom of Information) process
• Oversee administration of weekly Placement Decision‑Making Panels
• Prepare agendas, papers and take accurate minutes at confidential and complex meetings
• Liaise professionally with Councillors, partner agencies, and internal/external stakeholders
• Support Ofsted preparation and ongoing regulatory tasks
• Manage purchase orders, invoices and basic financial processes
• Assist with recruitment tasks and induction arrangements
• Uphold the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism and customer care

About You

• Significant experience supporting a Head of Service, Director or Senior Manager
• Excellent Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Confidence taking minutes at sensitive or complex meetings
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Outstanding organisational ability with a proactive, problem‑solving attitude
• Ability to work with highly confidential and sometimes emotionally challenging information
• Knowledge of data protection and safeguarding principles
• A calm, professional and resilient manner

Additional Information

Applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK.
This assignment is offered on an umbrella basis at £18 per hour.