Academic ConnectExecutive Assistant to the Executive Director
Executive Assistant to the Executive Director
If you are an experienced Executive Assistant who thrives in partnership with senior leaders and colleagues alike, this is a role where your ability to collaborate, anticipate and connect will truly matter.
At University of Cambridge Development and Alumni Relations (CUDAR), we work at the heart of one of the world's leading universities. Our purpose is to build lifelong relationships with alumni and secure philanthropic support that enables world-changing research, scholarships and initiatives. This happens through trusted relationships, thoughtful coordination and people who work seamlessly together.
This role sits at the centre of that effort.
Why this role matters
You will support the Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations as part of a small, high-performing Executive Office team. It is a position of trust where your ability to collaborate across teams, priorities and personalities will directly enable effective leadership.
Working closely with the Executive Business Manager, senior academics, colleagues across CUDAR, central University teams and external stakeholders, your role is not about gatekeeping. It is about connection, shared ownership and helping others do their best work.
What you will be doing
Executive partnership and diary management
You will manage a complex and fast-moving diary, balancing competing priorities with sound judgement and a collaborative mindset. You will prepare agendas and briefings, track actions and support alignment across the organisation.
Communication and connection
You will draft and refine correspondence, presentations and sensitive communications with care and discretion, acting as a trusted link between the Executive Director and colleagues across the University.
Travel, visits and events
From international travel to high-profile visits, you will coordinate arrangements that reflect the professionalism and global reach of Cambridge, working closely with colleagues to ensure a consistent and welcoming experience.
Operational and financial coordination
You will process expenses and invoices, maintain accurate records and ensure systems are organised and confidential, supporting the smooth running of the Executive Office.
About you
You are likely to have supported senior leaders at Director level or above and are comfortable in fast-moving environments.
You are known for how you work with others: you listen well, build trust and bring calm, practical judgement. You understand that influence comes through partnership rather than authority.
You will bring:
- Proven experience providing high-level executive support
- Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills
- Strong written and verbal communication
- High levels of discretion and professional judgement
- Confidence using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
We welcome applications from a wide range of sectors. Higher education experience is not required.
What you can expect from us
At CUDAR, collaboration is essential. You will be trusted, respected and supported to grow professionally while contributing to work with global impact.
We offer:
- Flexible hybrid working
- 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays and Christmas closure)
- A generous pension scheme
- Learning and development opportunities
- A supportive and inclusive culture where wellbeing matters
- The chance to contribute to work that changes lives around the world
If you are looking for a role where your professionalism, judgement and collaborative spirit will be genuinely valued, this could be the right next step.
University of Cambridge Development and Alumni Relations
Do your best work here.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role in the Upload section of the online application.
The closing date for this position is the 9th of April 2026.
First round interviews for this position are anticipated to take place on the 9th of March 2026. Candidates selected to progress will be invited to meet with the Executive Director on the 16th of April 2026.
Please quote reference DH48617 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
University of Cambridge Development and Alumni Relations
Salary
£33,951-£39,906
Reference
DH48617
Category
Date published
27 February 2026
Closing date
29 March 2026
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