admin secretary

WW WOODCRAFT PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading firm in Singapore is seeking a Private Secretary to provide high-level support for the principal. The role demands exceptional organizational skills to manage complex schedules and communications, liaise with officials, and offer policy advice. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in high-stakes environments, ensuring smooth operations and strategic guidance. This influential position can pave the way to senior leadership roles within the organization.

Qualifications

• Experience managing schedules and communications for high-level individuals.
• Ability to provide policy advice and briefing.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

Responsibilities

• Controls access to the principal and manages their schedule.
• Liaises with officials to achieve the principal's aims.
• Attends meetings and handles discrete projects.

Skills

Gatekeeping

Diary Management

Policy Briefing

Communication Skills

Project Management

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): civil servant supporting 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: Chief of Staff is 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.

Personal Assistant