admin secretary

HENGMEI YIHANG PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading private office firm in Singapore is seeking a Private Secretary (PS) to manage the schedule and communications of a high-level individual. This role serves as a key link between the principal and their organization, overseeing tasks ranging from managing confidential matters to providing essential policy advice. The position demands a strategic mindset and the ability to handle various responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Controls access to the principal (the person they support).
• Manages complex schedules, meetings, and incoming/outgoing communications.
• Briefs the principal on policy, departmental matters, and parliamentary protocol.
• Liaises with other officials to ensure the principal's aims are met.
• Attends meetings, takes notes, and handles discrete projects.

Job description

A Private Secretary (PS) is

a senior assistant and gatekeeper for a high-level individual

, like a government minister, CEO, or royal, managing their schedule, communications, and confidential matters, acting as the crucial link between them and their organization or department, often overseeing policy implementation and providing essential advice, with roles varying in scope from managing a personal office to heading a large private office.

Key Responsibilities

• Gatekeeping:Controls access to the principal (the person they support).
• Diary & Correspondence:Manages complex schedules, meetings, and incoming/outgoing communications.
• Policy & Advice:Briefs the principal on policy, departmental matters, and parliamentary protocol.
• Coordination:Liaises with other officials to ensure the principal's aims are met.
• Support:Attends meetings, takes notes, and handles discrete projects.

Contexts & Variations

• Government (UK):Acivil servantsupporting a Minister or Secretary of State; the Prime Minister's PS is a senior civil servant (Principal Private Secretary).
• Royal Household:Supports members of the Royal Family, with the Sovereign's PS being a very significant figure.
• Corporate:Supports a CEO or senior executive, handling personal and confidential business affairs.
• US Equivalent:AChief of Staffis comparable in some ways.

Distinction from (PA)

While PAs handle notes and papers, a PS often takes on broader strategic responsibilities, acting as a key advisor and managing the principal's entire office and workflow, not just administrative tasks.

Significance

The role is demanding but highly influential, often a fast-track to senior leadership within the civil service or an important stepping stone in business.