Executive Assistant

James Hardie; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

401(k) with match

ESP

Job summary

James Hardie is seeking an Executive Assistant to provide administrative support to the Executive Leadership Team. The role will manage a variety of administrative projects and liaise with senior leaders and external partners to ensure efficient operations.

The right candidate will oversee meeting planning, create executive-level materials, and coordinate events, conferences, and travel logistics while maintaining strict confidentiality and professional representation of the company.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required
• At least five years supporting executives in high-level admin roles
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook)
• Experience with SharePoint and Webex
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Strong organizational skills and confidentiality

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with organizational leaders to develop meeting agendas and gather updates
• Create and refine executive presentation materials for leadership and town halls
• Plan and execute programs, events, and conferences including venue, catering, invitations, speakers, and budgets
• Coordinate with regional offices and internal departments to ensure alignment
• Support C-level executives with diverse administrative tasks as needed
• Represent the company professionally in internal and external engagements
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards
• Lead cross-functional project management from inception to completion

Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.

With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

The Executive Assistant will be responsible for providing administrative and executive support to members of the James Hardie Executive Leadership Team. This role will also manage a variety of administrative projects.

What You'll Do:

• Collaborate proactively with leaders across the organization to gather comprehensive updates and develop dynamic agenda items for meetings, ensuring alignment on key objectives and initiatives.
• Lead the creation and refinement of presentation materials for executive leadership, town halls, and other high-visibility forums, effectively conveying strategic messages and business priorities.
• Manage the end-to-end planning and execution of programs, events, meetings, and conferences, including securing venues, coordinating with caterers, distributing information and invitations, organizing speakers, managing event budgets, and overseeing all related logistics to ensure seamless operations.
• Support and strengthen collaboration between the main office and regional offices through effective coordination and communication of activities and initiatives.
• Serve as a key liaison with internal departments, senior leaders, and external partners, fostering productive relationships and facilitating cross-functional teamwork.
• Provide high-level administrative support to C-Level executives and management teams, addressing a variety of needs and priorities on an as-needed basis.
• Represent the executive and the company with professionalism and integrity, serving as an ambassador in both internal and external engagements.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all corporate, personnel, and team matters; uphold the highest ethical standards in all business practices and interactions.
• Continuously identify opportunities to enhance and optimize administrative processes and procedures, offering thoughtful suggestions for improvement and efficiency.
• Provide back-up support for receptionist duties as needed, ensuring continuity of front-office operations.
• Project manage key strategic projects from inception through completion, including developing project plans, coordinating cross-functional teams, tracking milestones and deliverables, and communicating progress to stakeholders to ensure successful execution and achievement of business goals.

What You'll Bring:

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum requirement, with a preference for candidates who have earned a college degree.
• Bring at least five years of proven professional experience supporting executives in high-level administrative roles.
• Demonstrate advanced proficiency in all Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook, to streamline processes and drive productivity.
• Leverage experience with SharePoint and Webex to facilitate seamless collaboration and communication across teams.
• Plan and execute events for groups ranging from 10 to 200 participants, ensuring flawless delivery and memorable attendee experiences.
• Exhibit outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with a mastery of grammar and the ability to convey information clearly and professionally.
• Work independently with minimal supervision, consistently taking initiative to anticipate and address needs.
• Exercise sound independent judgment and make informed decisions that support organizational goals.
• Exhibit exceptional attention to detail and superior organizational skills in all aspects of work.
• Demonstrate the ability to prioritize tasks, consistently meet deadlines, and adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Uphold professionalism and composure while working under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Proactively identify and resolve problems, displaying initiative and resourcefulness in finding effective solutions.
• Successfully coordinate and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and high-quality outcomes.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information with the utmost discretion.
• Bring a positive attitude and demonstrate the ability to be proactive, resourceful, and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
• Show strong interpersonal skills, working collaboratively as part of a team and building effective relationships throughout the organization.

What You'll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $31-$38/hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

• Compensation: competitive compensation
• Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
• Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
• Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
• Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
• Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
• Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.