View Vacancy - Executive Assistant to Counsellor Corporate Services (USA) & HM Consul General, Washington

The British Embassy in Washington, DC has an exciting opportunity for a dynamic person to join the Corporate Services Team as Executive Assistant to Counsellor Corporate Services & HM Consul General, Washington. This opportunity is a rewarding role which supports the Corporate Services Team and allows you to see a range of corporate issues.

Your main responsibilities will be to provide diary support, liaise with internal and external contacts/their offices to arrange meetings (virtual and in-person), provide general administrative duties and logistical support and enable the smooth running of the wider Corporate Services Section.

This is a busy and interesting Executive Assistant position, working with a wide variety of stakeholders, including: the Ambassador’s Private Office, colleagues across the Embassy, Consul Generals (CGs) (and their teams) across the US Network, the staff at the Ambassador’s residence and the offices of external Embassy, Administration and contacts.

The ideal candidate for this position will be a reliable self-starter with strong organisational and communication skills and who takes a pro-active and flexible approach to their work. Tact, good judgement, and discretion are essential to the role.

The US Network offers a unique career enhancing opportunity and is committed to supporting its staff through a variety of benefits including generous leave, insurance packages and a highly competitive 401k programme.  It also promotes a culture of flexibility which enables people to better maintain wellness through an excellent work/life balance approach that encompasses hybrid working, including working from home and flexible hours, where possible.  In this role you would be working in a diverse international environment to support UK diplomats, armed forces personnel and other country based staff operating across the British Government’s network of Consulates and Government Offices in the United States. This network provides a platform for approximately 30 Government departments and agencies to conduct their work in the United States and is made up of over 900 staff with a rich and diverse background, skill sets, and experiences.

Roles and responsibilities / what will the jobholder be expected to achieve?

• Manage the schedule of the Counsellor Corporate Services; including prioritising, problem solving where necessary, and coordinating logistics such as transport and IT;
• Book business travel arrangements, including flights, transportation, and accommodation for Counsellor Corporate Services;
• Organise and schedule meetings for the wider section. Prepare internal meeting agendas, perform research for meetings, and take minutes during meetings;
• Perform reception duties when necessary;
• Maintain electronic filing system and distribution lists, ensuring processes are in working order;
• Liaise with other staff members on behalf of Counsellor Corporate Services;
• Support to US Network governance forums
• Maintain up-to-date contacts lists;
• Prepare visitor programmes;
• Plan and deliver events in support of wider Corporate Services objectives, including securing venues, organising catering, managing guest lists and providing on-site support;
• Provide cross-cutting support across full range of administrative tasks to facilitate the smooth running of the Section;
• Cover for EAs/Internal Comms when needed

• Excellent IT Skills
• Exceptional writing and presentation skills
• Comfortable with advising, supporting and drafting for senior leaders
• Self-starter, comfortable with strategy and delivery with minimal support
• Adept at managing multiple priorities and excellent time management skills