Executive Assistant to CEO – Leading Trading Business
Location: South Manchester, Cheshire
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent

We are recruiting an Executive Assistant on behalf of a leading trading business based in South Manchester, Cheshire. This is a unique opportunity for a highly organised and proactive Executive Assistant to support the CEO in driving key initiatives and ensuring the smooth daily operations of this fast-paced business.

About the Role:
As the Executive Assistant to the CEO, you will play a crucial role in managing complex projects, understanding the CEO’s needs, and acting as a reliable gatekeeper and ambassador for the business. This role offers the chance to be actively involved in various high-impact projects, requiring a blend of project management skills, adaptability, and strategic thinking.

Experience Required:

• Executive Support: Prior experience as a PA or Executive Assistant in a fast-paced environment, ideally within trading or retail.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage diverse projects effectively.
• Proactive Mindset: A self-starter who can anticipate needs and take the initiative.
• Resilience: Ability to thrive in a close-knit environment, adapt easily, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Growth Mindset: Continuously seeks improvements and practical, results-driven solutions.
• Assertiveness and Flexibility: Comfortable with embracing challenges and confident in pushing back when necessary.
• Innovation and Tech-Savviness: Utilises technology to streamline processes effectively.

Key Skills:

• Strong business acumen, with the ability to summarise meetings and reports concisely.
• Excellent organisational, communication, planning, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Proficiency in Office 365 (Outlook, Excel, OneNote, PowerPoint).
• Experience supporting senior leadership and board-level executives.
• Proven track record in managing and delivering diverse projects.

Main Responsibilities:

• Diary and Travel Management: Coordinate schedules, appointments, and travel arrangements.
• Meeting Logistics: Oversee logistics for meetings, including room bookings, equipment, and catering.
• Strategic Collaboration: Work closely with senior leadership on key initiatives.
• Project Tracking: Maintain a real-time project tracking and filing system.
• Reporting and Presentation Preparation: Create and deliver high-quality reports, agendas, and presentations.
• Email and Communication Management: Streamline email communications and provide proactive support during the CEO's absence.

If you are an organised, resilient, and proactive professional looking for a challenging role where you can make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply for this Executive Assistant position.

Lily Shippen – Specialists in Executive Assistant Recruitment in Cheshire, Manchester, and London

Lily Shippen’s business support team are experts in recruiting high-calibre Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants, and business support professionals for dynamic and high-growth companies. Based in London and Manchester, we provide recruitment solutions for temporary, permanent, and fixed-term contracts. Whether you're hiring an EA in Cheshire or a PA in London, Lily Shippen is your trusted partner in connecting with exceptional talent.