Executive Personal Assistant / C-suite | Sandton

The Recruitment Council; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services organization is seeking a strategic Executive Personal Assistant to support the CEO. This role involves managing complex schedules, coordinating high-level meetings, and maintaining confidentiality in a fast-paced environment. Ideal candidates will have a background in commerce and experience at the C-suite level, demonstrating exceptional organizational and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Proven track record as an Executive Personal Assistant supporting a CEO or Director.
• In-depth knowledge of the financial services industry.
• Ability to prioritize conflicting demands in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex diaries and travel arrangements for the CEO.
• Organize high-level meetings and prepare agendas.
• Act as the primary contact for the CEO’s office.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Professionalism

Discretion

Proactivity

Education

Diploma or degree in Commerce

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About Our Client:

We are representing a financial services giant, a prominent leader in the sector with a dynamic portfolio of brands. This esteemed organization operates multiple successful entities offering short-term, long-term, and health insurance, and is committed to excellence and market leadership.

The Opportunity:

This is a career-defining opportunity for a highly accomplished and strategic Executive Personal Assistant to provide comprehensive and proactive support to the Chief Executive Officer. This role is integral to the smooth and efficient functioning of the CEO’s office and requires an individual with exceptional organizational prowess, foresight, and a deep understanding of the financial services landscape.

You will operate at the highest level of the organization, engaging with C-suite executives and key stakeholders. This demanding yet rewarding position calls for a seasoned professional capable of managing complex diaries, coordinating high-stakes projects, and acting as a trusted gatekeeper and ambassador for the CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide sophisticated and proactive diary management, anticipating needs and ensuring the CEO’s time is optimized for strategic priorities.
• Manage complex travel arrangements (both domestic and international), including detailed itinerary planning, visa applications, and accommodation.
• Organize and coordinate high-level meetings, conferences, and C-suite-level board events, including agenda preparation, minute-taking, and follow-up on action items.
• Act as the primary point of contact for the CEO’s office, exercising discretion, and professionalism in liaising with internal and external stakeholders, including senior executives, clients, and industry leaders.
• Prepare and edit correspondence, presentations, reports, and other documents to the highest standard of quality and accuracy.
• Manage confidential information with the utmost discretion and integrity.
• Undertake research and lead on special projects as directed by the CEO, demonstrating initiative and a solutions-oriented approach.
• Process expenses and manage administrative tasks efficiently for the CEO’s office.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships across the organization.

Requirements – Essential Skills & Experience:

• A diploma or degree in Commerce is mandatory.
• A proven track record of success as an Executive Personal Assistant at the C-suite level, specifically supporting a CEO or Director within the Financial Services sector.
• In-depth knowledge of the financial services industry is non-negotiable.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize conflicting demands in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Outstanding communication (written and verbal), interpersonal, and networking skills.
• A high degree of professionalism, polish, and executive presence.
• Proactive, resourceful, and able to work autonomously with minimal supervision.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Resilience, adaptability, and a calm demeanor under pressure.

Your Application:

To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your comprehensive CV. Your CV must include:

• Detailed information on the specific projects you have worked on.
• Clear examples of your exposure and experience in assisting Directors and/or CEOs, particularly within a financial services context.

Please send your CV, copies of your qualifications, proof of income, and a recent professional photograph [e-mail].

Please only apply if you meet all the specified criteria.

Next Steps:

Upon receipt and review of your application documents, shortlisted candidates who meet the outlined requirements will be contacted directly for an initial discussion. We look forward to hearing from highly motivated and experienced professionals who are a clear fit for this prestigious role.