Executive Secretary to the CEO

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 300,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Generous leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Executive Secretary to support the CEO in Durban. The role requires a highly organized, proactive professional to manage the CEO’s schedule, communications, and daily operations.

You will handle confidential information, coordinate travel, prepare documents, and liaise with internal staff and external partners. A minimum of 5 years’ experience in C-level support and exceptional discretion are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ proven experience as an Executive Secretary or Personal Assistant supporting C-level executives.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and integrity.

Responsibilities

• Manage the CEO's complex calendar, including scheduling meetings and prioritizing conflicts.
• Screen and prioritize emails, calls, and mail; ensure timely responses.
• Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, and presentations.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements.
• Organize meetings, take minutes, and track action items.
• Maintain discretion and act as gatekeeper between CEO and stakeholders.
• Maintain executive files and conduct background research for meetings.

Skills

Executive support

Calendar management

Communication

MS Office

Discretion

Stakeholder engagement

Travel coordination

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing technology firm, is seeking a highly organized and proactive Executive Secretary to provide dedicated support to their Chief Executive Officer. This critical role is based in our offices serving the Durban metropolitan area. The Executive Secretary will be responsible for managing the CEO's schedule, communications, and administrative tasks, ensuring smooth daily operations. This position requires exceptional discretion, excellent communication skills, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving. The successful candidate will act as a primary point of contact for the CEO, representing them professionally both internally and externally. This is a unique opportunity to work closely with top leadership in a fast‑paced and innovative environment in Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the CEO's complex calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and prioritizing conflicting demands.
• Screen and prioritize incoming communications, including emails, calls, and mail, ensuring timely responses.
• Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents as required.
• Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, and itineraries.
• Organize and manage internal and external meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and tracking action items.
• Handle confidential information with the utmost discretion and security.
• Act as a gatekeeper and liaison between the CEO and internal staff, clients, and external partners.
• Maintain and organize executive files and records.
• Conduct research and prepare background materials for meetings and projects.
• Anticipate the needs of the CEO and proactively address them to ensure efficiency.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of proven experience as an Executive Secretary or Personal Assistant supporting C-level executives, preferably in Durban.
• Exceptional organizational and time‑management skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and collaboration tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and integrity.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and prioritize effectively.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and demanding schedules.
• Experience with travel arrangements and event coordination is a plus.
• A professional demeanor and a proactive, results‑oriented attitude.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits program.
• Medical aid, a provident fund, and generous leave days.
• Employees will have the opportunity to work in a modern office environment in Durban, with access to professional development programs.
• We foster a collaborative and supportive culture, providing a platform for employees to grow and excel.
• Additional benefits may include performance incentives and access to employee wellness programs.