Executive Assistant

Dillard University; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Dillard University in New Orleans seeks an Executive Assistant to the College President to manage the day-to-day operations of the President's Office. This role serves as the primary liaison with the Board of Trustees, faculty, students, donors, and government officials, ensuring strategic priorities are advanced.

The EA will oversee calendaring, travel logistics, communications, budget tracking, and the coordination of major university events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is typically required for this role.
• 5–10 years of professional administrative experience, with 3–5 years supporting senior executives.
• Discretion and confidentiality are essential when handling sensitive matters.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace; familiarity with higher-education ERP is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manages a complex, high-volume President's Office calendar and travel logistics.
• Serves as recording secretary and liaison to the Board of Trustees and key stakeholders.
• Drafts high-stakes communications, speeches, and briefing materials.
• Oversees the President's Office budget and expense tracking.
• Coordinates large university events and special projects.

Skills

Executive support

Calendar management

Board liaison

Communications

Budget management

Event planning

Education

Bachelor's degree

Associate's degree + experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Google Workspace

Higher-ed ERP systems (Banner/Colleague)

Job description

Position Overview

An Executive Assistant (EA) to a College President is a high-level administrative professional who manages the day-to-day operations of the President's Office. This role acts as a primary liaison between the President and key stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, students, donors, and government officials.

Core Responsibilities

• Executive Support & Calendaring: Manages a complex, high-volume calendar of meetings, social engagements, and university functions. They act as a "gatekeeper," prioritizing requests to ensure the President's time is focused on institutional priorities.
• Board Liaison: Serves as the recording secretary for the Board of Trustees, preparing agendas, tracking minutes, and ensuring compliance with open meeting laws and bylaws.
• Communications: Drafts and edits high-stakes correspondence, speeches, briefing materials, and reports. They often handle sensitive inquiries from the media, legislators, and the public on behalf of the President.
• Fiscal Management: Oversees the President's Office budget, manages travel expenses, and monitors state or foundation funds. They may also handle complex travel logistics for the President and official visitors.
• Event & Project Management: Coordinates large-scale university events such as commencements, retreats, and donor receptions. They also lead special projects that may impact university-wide operations.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Education: Most institutions require a Bachelor's degree. Some may accept an Associate's degree combined with extensive experience.
• Experience: Typically requires 5–10 years of professional administrative experience, with at least 3–5 years supporting C-suite or senior executives.
• Discretion & Confidentiality: Absolute discretion is required when handling sensitive legal, personnel, and institutional matters.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace are essential. Familiarity with higher-education ERP systems (like Banner or Colleague) is often preferred.