Our client, a leading organisation based in Manchester, is seeking an experienced Executive Assistant to provide comprehensive support to the CEO. This high-level role demands a proactive professional with expertise in complex diary management and international travel coordination. The ideal candidate will bring a keen eye for detail, strong relationship-building skills, and the ability to adapt in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Executive Assistant to CEO | Salary:  £50,000- £70,000 | Location: Manchester | Contract Type: Permanent

Key Responsibilities:

• Diary and Schedule Management: Manage the CEO’s complex schedule (80% of the role), including multi-attendee meeting coordination and adjusting to last-minute changes. Close communication with other Personal Assistants' in the business.
• Board and Stakeholder Communication: Arrange ad-hoc board meetings, handle shareholder and bank meeting coordination, and oversee announcement timelines.
• Travel Arrangements: Organise intricate travel plans, including itineraries, schedules, check-ins, and visa applications. Occasional travel with the CEO for international supplier visits and key meetings is required.
• Event and Meeting Organisation: Liaise with the internal communications team for meetings and other essential events. Coordinate restaurant reservations and venue bookings for business and client meetings.
• Internal Team Coordination: Schedule one-to-one diary slots with the CEO’s direct reports, manage holiday requests.
• Office Presence and Management: Maintain a visible presence in the Manchester office, welcome visitors, liaise with security, and support IT equipment needs in partnership with the IT team.
• Personal Assistance: Handle ad-hoc personal duties and requests from the CEO. Arrange lunches and refreshments as needed for meetings.
• Flexible Support: Provide out-of-hours assistance when required, mirroring the CEO’s schedule to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

Skills and Attributes Required:

• Demonstrates confidentiality, professionalism, and a personable approach.
• Works efficiently in a high-energy environment, thinking ahead and staying calm under pressure.
• Comfortable with constant change and can handle ambiguity and incomplete details.
• Works well independently, building trusting relationships quickly, and supporting the CEO with minimal guidance.

Location: Manchester
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, with flexibility for out-of-hours support

If you are an experienced Executive Assistant in Manchester who thrives in a dynamic environment, can anticipate needs, and has a proactive approach, apply today with your CV.

Lily Shippen is a renowned business support and Executive Assistant recruitment agency in the UK. We recruit exceptional talent for Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants, Office Managers, Chief of Staff, and various business support roles across Manchester, London, Cheshire, and other key UK locations. Specialising in temporary, permanent, and contract recruitment, we support founders, executives, and private clients with top-tier talent solutions. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next career move, our team is here to help you succeed.