Senior Executive Officer to CEO

Early Years; Northern Ireland; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education organization in Northern Ireland is seeking a Senior Executive Officer to provide high-level support to the CEO and Board of Directors. The role demands confidentiality and discretion, with responsibilities including administrative management and governance compliance. Ideal candidates will possess a degree, relevant experience, and strong IT skills. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including 38 days annual leave and a pension scheme.

Benefits

Competitive salary

38 days of annual leave

Contributory pension scheme

Access to healthcare schemes

Qualifications

• Educated to degree level standard or above in a relevant discipline.
• At least two years’ corporate governance or legal compliance or information security or policy research and development.
• Highly proficient in MS Office applications and strong IT skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-level secretariat support to the CEO and Board of Directors.
• Manage Board and Committee meetings and ensure governance compliance processes.
• Handle complex and confidential communications.

Skills

Discretion and diplomacy

MS Office proficiency

Strong IT skills

Independent work ability

Coordination with multiple stakeholders

Education

Degree in a relevant discipline

Job description

This is a senior level support role within the CEO office. Do you have a passion for making a meaningful impact in early childhood education? Do you believe in the power of play to unlock potential? Be part of our team and help shape the futures of children by fostering growth and learning through purposeful opportunities. At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and education.

Responsibilities

• The Senior Executive Officer to the CEO will be responsible for the provision of a high-level secretariat support to the Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directors.
• You will provide complex and highly confidential support to the CEO and Board of Directors requiring discretion and diplomacy.
• This includes efficient and effective planning, co-ordination, administrative and communications management support to a busy CEO.
• The role is also responsible for Company Secretary support including the management of Board and Committee meetings, updating governance documentation and ensuring governance compliance processes.

Skills and Qualifications

• Educated to degree level standard or above in a relevant discipline.
• At least two years’ corporate governance or legal compliance or information security or policy research and development.
• Highly proficient in MS Office applications and strong IT skills.
• A high level of discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and coordinate with multiple stakeholders.
• Have or be willing to obtain a corporate governance qualification.

Further Information

In return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 38 days of annual leave (pro‑ratio), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Monday 17 November 2025. For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that assessment and interviews will take place on Tuesday 25 November 2025. A reserve list may be held for a period of up to six months for the same or similar roles if this applies to you, we’ll let you know via email. Should you need to contact us, please use the following methods: Email: [e-mail] Phone: [phone] Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions.