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, PowerPoint and SharePoint
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.
Please ensure you read the candidate pack attached and that you detail your career history and outline your suitability for the role in your application.
The closing date for this position is the midnight of Sunday 9th of August 2026.
Interviews for this position are anticipated to take place on Wednesday the 19th of August 2026.
Candidates selected to progress to second round will be invited to meet with the Executive Director on Thursday the 27th of August 2026.
Please quote reference DH50499 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.
