Executive Assistant to the CEO

University of Fort Hare; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed educational institution in Johannesburg is seeking a highly organized Executive Assistant to support the CEO. The role involves managing the CEO's calendar, handling administrative tasks, and coordinating with stakeholders. Ideal candidates should possess high emotional intelligence, excellent communication skills, and previous experience as an Executive Assistant. Fluency in French is an added advantage. This hybrid role offers flexibility in work arrangements.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant preferred.
• Fluency in French is a strong plus.
• Ability to work long and flexible hours.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the CEO’s calendar and daily workflow.
• Handle professional and personal administrative tasks.
• Screen and manage the CEO’s inbox and communication channels.
• Prepare briefs and meeting agendas.
• Assist with follow-ups and track action items.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

High emotional intelligence

Excellent communication skills

Meticulous attention to detail

Proven ability to manage senior stakeholders

Strong work ethic

Highly organized

Job description

South Africa - Gauteng, Johannesburg - North (Sandton / Midrand / Diepsloot). (Market related)

Executive Assistant to the CEO

Location: Lone Hill, Fourways, Johannesburg

Hybrid/Remote flexibility will be considered

Proposed Start Date: April 2026

1. Role Overview

The Executive Assistant (EA) will provide high-level administrative and strategic support to the CEO. This role ensures the CEO’s time, priorities, and communication channels are optimally managed. The ideal candidate is exceptionally organized, proactive, emotionally intelligent, and able to operate at the fast pace required to support a high-performing CEO.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the CEO’s calendar, schedule, and daily workflow.
• Handle professional and personal administrative tasks as required.
• Screen, prioritize, and manage the CEO’s inbox and communication channels.
• Prepare briefs, meeting agendas, documents, and executive summaries.
• Assist with follow-ups, track action items, and ensure timely execution.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including board members.
• Represent the CEO with professionalism, discretion, and strong stakeholder management skills.

3. Required Competencies

• High emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong administrative rigor.
• Proven ability to manage senior stakeholders.
• Strong work ethic and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Highly organized, structured, and able to work at CEO cadence.

4. Experience Requirements

• Previous experience as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant preferred.
• Priority is a strong CEO–EA fit and alignment with working style.
• Ability to work long and flexible hours to match CEO availability.

5. Non-Negotiables

• Driven, proactive, and meticulous.
• Consistent high-quality output under pressure.

6. Added Advantage

• Fluency in French (strong plus).