Temporary Secretariat Support Officer

Saffron Walden / Hybrid

Temporary assignment - 3-4 months

Hourly rate (PAYE or umbrella)

Start: January 2026

Robert Half is recruiting a Temporary Secretariat Support Officer on behalf of a client based in Saffron Walden. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced governance or board administrator to provide high-level secretariat support during a period of cover, working closely with senior leaders.

The role

Reporting to the Chief of Staff, you will support the Governance & Secretariat function, ensuring the smooth and compliant operation of Board and Committee meetings.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing for Board and Committee meetings, including drafting agendas, scheduling meetings, and collating papers
• Providing on-site and virtual administrative support (room bookings, technology setup, attendance management)
• Taking accurate minutes, capturing decisions and actions, and circulating documentation promptly
• Maintaining action logs, registers, and governance records
• Supporting governance and compliance processes, ensuring confidentiality and information security
• Building effective working relationships with Non-Executive Directors, Executive Directors, and senior stakeholders

About you

You will bring:

• Proven experience in Secretariat Services, including Board or Committee administration
• Experience working within a regulated or complex organisation
• Confidence supporting senior leadership, including NEDs and Executive teams
• Strong minute-taking, organisation, and document management skills
• Excellent attention to detail, planning, and time management
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication
• Familiarity with board/committee portals (e.g. Diligent) and governance frameworks
• A professional qualification or training in company/board secretarial practice (e.g. CGI/ICSA) is desirable but not essential

Why apply?

This temporary assignment offers the chance to:

• Support effective governance and decision-making at Board level
• Work closely with senior leaders in a professional, high-impact environment
• Further develop your secretariat and governance experience

Please note: occasional early morning or evening availability and travel to meeting locations may be required.