At Duke Corporate Education, we empower leaders at all levels to be catalysts of change in their organizations and, ultimately, in society. By designing and delivering best in class advisory, leadership development and change management programs, we accelerate business leaders and their teams to build for the future. Our global team have an enviable track record of delivering some of the most scaled, impactful and innovative learning programs and leadership interventions in the world. With delivery in over 85 countries, we partner with clients to co-create the right solution for any level of leadership. Together, we transform leaders and business, creating sustainable impact at scale and speed.
We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Office Manager and Executive Assistant (EA) who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment to join our team in Africa, to play a key role in ensuring operational excellence to our Johannesburg office and providing support to the Regional Managing Director (RMD) for Africa.
The role is based at our office in Bryanston, five days a week.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include:
- Provide exceptional administrative support to the Regional Managing Director (RMD), delivering discreet and high-level assistance—from expertly coordinating calendars and intricate travel arrangements to crafting executive materials that ensure strategic goals are met.
- Act as a strategic ally and gatekeeper by proactively anticipating needs, juggling competing priorities, and ensuring the RMD is always informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
- Produce polished and impactful written communications that deliver clear, timely messaging aligned with the leadership's tone and objectives.
- Facilitate seamless communications with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, partners, and global teams—creating outstanding experiences at every interaction.
- Take ownership of the entire process of managing expenses and invoices, ensuring precision and efficiency throughout.
- Foster a professional and welcoming office atmosphere by overseeing daily operations, making sure everything, from processes to supplies, runs smoothly and effectively.
- Establish strong relationships with vendors and supervise service providers to ensure high-quality delivery across all operational and event-related interactions.
- Drive the implementation and ongoing enhancement of office policies and processes that promote operational excellence and effective reporting.
- Manage event logistics with meticulous attention—from selecting venues and arranging travel to catering, materials, and technology—while keeping a close eye on budgets and collaborating with finance for cost-efficient execution.
- Plan and execute high-profile internal and external events, including leadership meetings and client interactions—delivering unforgettable, well-orchestrated experiences.
- Oversee the onboarding and offboarding processes for regional staff, facilitating smooth and engaging transitions.
Duke CE is an equal opportunities employer and invites all applicants who meet the requirements to apply.
Position Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Capable of making informed administrative decisions regarding sensitive and confidential matters.
- Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, adept at collaborating with diverse groups.
- Exceptional troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Robust project management abilities.
- Skilled in managing business processes efficiently.
- Remain composed under pressure, maintaining a calm demeanor in challenging situations.
- Self-driven and capable of working independently while taking the initiative and knowing when to escalate issues.
- Experienced in coordinating meetings and special events to the highest standards.
- A proven track record of 8-10 years in office management, executive administration, or a comparable role.
- Experience thriving in a fast-paced and dynamic office setting.
- Experience collaborating across time zones and with international teams is highly preferred.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license or have reliable transportation.