Job Title: Executive Assistant \nLocation: Manchester\nSalary: Up to £40,000 \n\nOverview:\n\nThis is an exciting opportunity for a talented Executive Assistant to join a dynamic, hard-working non-profit organisation at the heart of a high-profile research institute. In this varied and fast-paced role, you will be a true right-hand partner to the Director, managing a complex and ever-changing diary, coordinating meetings, and seamlessly organising both domestic and international travel with meticulous attention to detail.\n\nBeyond traditional EA responsibilities, you will provide comprehensive administrative support including expense processing, document control, and project coordination, while acting as a key point of contact for a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. No two days will be the same and this role is designed for someone who thrives on variety, thinks on their feet and enjoys going the extra mile in a high-energy environment where priorities can shift quickly.\n\n This is far more than a typical Executive Assistant position.

With real scope to grow, learn and progress potentially within as little as six months, it is a role that has been shaped to be engaging, rewarding, and genuinely fun for someone who loves being at the centre of the action.\n\nMain Duties\nTake ownership of the Director’s busy and ever-evolving diary, ensuring meetings, travel, and external commitments run seamlessly and efficiently.\nCreate polished and engaging agendas, briefing packs, reports, and presentations that support high-level decision making and leave a lasting impression.\nAct as a trusted first point of contact for senior stakeholders, including board members, funders and international partners, building strong relationships with confidence and professionalism.\nProactively manage a high volume of correspondence, anticipating priorities, responding with sound judgement, and keeping everything moving smoothly.\nCoordinate complex domestic and international travel, producing detailed itineraries that ensure every trip is well planned, stress-free, and perfectly executed.\nProvide wide-ranging executive support to the Director, from expense management and document control to supporting key projects and initiatives.\nPlan and deliver high-profile visits, meetings, and events, welcoming high-end guests and ensuring an exceptional standard of hospitality at every touch point.\nSupport the Director’s involvement in collaborative work across academia, health care, government, and the charity sector, helping bring ambitious partnerships to life.\nHandle sensitive information with absolute discretion, maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism at all times\nKnowledge and Experience\nEssential:\n\nExperience within EA / PA support\nHighly organised with excellent problem-solving abilities.\nProfessional, discreet, and confident when handling sensitive information.\nOutstanding verbal and written communication skills.\nStrong IT proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).\nProactive thinking, the ability to work independently, prioritise tasks and meet tight deadlines.\nExperience or confidence when speaking in front of high-stake holders Desirable:Desirable:\n\nKnowledge of Scientific industry or non- profit organisation\nAbility to pick things up quickly\nFamiliarity with charity or non-profit organisations.\nDrive – always pushing to achieve the best/ going the extra mile.\nBenefits:\n\n32 days annual leave plus bank holidays\nStrong Progression Opportunity\nEmployee wellbeing support and EAP\nOut of work team bonding exercises\nEnhanced pension scheme\nFamily-friendly and flexible working policies\nAccess to health and fitness facilities\nOn-site cafés, discounts, and cultural venues