Mercatus Capital – Personal Assistant

A personal assistant to senior members (PA), works closely with senior managerial or directorial staff to provide administrative support, usually on a one-to-one basis.

PAs help managers to make the best use of their time by dealing with secretarial and administrative tasks.

PAs need extensive knowledge of the organisation in which they work. They need to know who key personnel are (both external and internal) and understand the organisation's aims and objectives.

Managers often rely heavily on their PA, trusting that work will be handled efficiently in their absence. Discretion and confidentiality are therefore essential attributes for a successful PA.

Responsibilities:

• devising and maintaining office systems, including data management and filing;
• arranging travel, visas and accommodation and, take notes or dictation at meetings or to provide general assistance during presentations;
• screening phone calls, enquiries and requests, and handling them when appropriate;
• meeting and greeting visitors at all levels of seniority;
• organising and maintaining diaries and making appointments;
• dealing with incoming email and post, often corresponding on behalf of the manager;
• carrying out background research and presenting findings;
• producing documents, briefing papers, reports and presentations;
• organising and attending meetings and ensuring the manager is well prepared for meetings;
• liaising with clients, suppliers and other staff.

In addition to supporting managers, their team and departments, many PAs also have their own personal workload and responsibilities. 

Salary is negotiable and based on experience. 

Skills

• exceptional written and oral communication skills;
• excellent word processing and IT skills, including knowledge of a range of software packages;
• ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines;
• good organisational and time management skills;
• ability to research, digest, analyse and present material clearly and concisely;
• excellent interpersonal skills;
• ability to work on your own initiative;
• honesty and reliability;
• attention to detail;
• flexibility and adaptability to juggle a range of different tasks and to work extra hours to meet deadlines;
• discretion and an understanding of confidentiality issues.