Executive Assistant to the Executive Director

University of Cambridge - University of Cambridge Development and Alumni Relations

Placed On: 2nd March 2026

Closes: 29th March 2026

Job Ref: DH48617

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.

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.

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.

Candidates selected to progress will be invited to meet with the Executive Director on the 16th of April 2026.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.