Job Description: Private Secretary

Location: Swindon (Hybrid)

Overview:
The role of a Private Secretary is central to ensuring the smooth operation of the Executive Chair’s office at the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). This position is crucial in enabling the Executive Chair to focus on strategic leadership, decision-making, and the effective delivery of research initiatives, particularly those that support a diverse research agenda, including the creative industries. As a Private Secretary, you will oversee a team of Executive Assistants and work collaboratively with different offices, including the AHRC COO Office and the International Office, ensuring that the Executive Chair’s responsibilities are managed and coordinated effectively.

Advice for International Applicants:
When applying for this role from an international education perspective, it’s important to highlight your understanding of the UK research landscape and your ability to navigate and manage stakeholder relationships within a multinational context. Demonstrate your strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills, and emphasize your experience in working across different cultural environments. You should also showcase your communication skills and your capacity for discretion and integrity. If you have experience in international research or governance, make sure to underline this in your application. Familiarity with UK policies and processes will be a plus, so consider researching these elements to strengthen your candidacy.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Oversee the strategic operations of the Executive Office.
2. Facilitate decision-making processes and delegate responsibilities on behalf of the Executive Chair.
3. Build and maintain stakeholder networks, ensuring effective communication and information flow.
4. Direct a communications and strategic engagement program for the Executive Chair and Senior Leadership Team.
5. Lead a team of Executive Assistants, working in harmony with the Governance and Executive Office (GEO) to ensure organizational effectiveness.
6. Serve as a primary, approachable contact for AHRC staff, promoting collaboration and inclusion.

Process and Delivery:

• Manage information flows and brief stakeholders accurately.
• Contribute to AHRC’s strategic planning, including Strategic Delivery Plans and Spending Reviews.
• Commission expert briefings and advice.
• Address challenges with effective solutions.
• Promote interaction and engagement between the Executive Chair and AHRC staff.
• Ensure compliance with UKRI policies, including Declarations of Interest, Gifts and Hospitality.
• Work with the GEO team to support the organization’s resilience and continuity.

Skills, Qualifications & Experience:

• Ability to work at a fast pace, think strategically, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Competent in planning and managing competing priorities.
• Problem-solving skills with initiative and creativity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with attention to detail.
• Leadership skills to manage a high-performing team and delegate tasks effectively.

Additional Information:

Developing Talent:
UKRI is committed to employee development, offering opportunities for professional growth through e-learning, classroom training, and practical experiences. We encourage sharing of learning across teams and organizations.

Benefits:
The role offers flexible working conditions, 30 days of annual leave plus public holidays, access to the Civil Service Pension Scheme, and various discounts through a dedicated provider. For more information, visit the UKRI benefits webpage: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

This format not only explains the role clearly but also provides helpful insights for international applicants to position themselves as strong candidates