Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant to the Managing Director (Full-time, Fixed-term)

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Location: Chancery Lane, London (office-based).

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Contract: 6-month fixed-term (with potential to extend depending on business needs and performance)

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Starting: October 2026, no later than 12th October

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Salary: Starting at £40,000 (depending on experience)

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Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday (35 hour week)

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Reports to: Managing Director

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About Zaytoun

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Zaytoun is a UK social enterprise established in 2004 to support the resilience of Palestinian communities through fair trade. 100% of our profits are reinvested into advancing this mission.

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Our range includes award-winning olive oil, Medjoul dates, za’atar, grains, and a skin care range. We’re a small, collaborative team who care about Palestine, justice and good food.

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For more info on the company, please visit https://zaytoun.uk/

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The role

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We’re looking for an exceptional Executive Assistant to work closely with our Managing Director, providing both high-level administrative and executive support, strategic coordination and thoughtful input into priorities and workflow.

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This role is about partnership: you’ll help ensure the MD’s time is focused where it matters most, while keeping projects, meetings, and priorities running smoothly. You’ll balance detail with the bigger picture, acting as a trusted point of connection between the MD, the team, and external partners.

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It’s a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference - both to the smooth running of a mission-driven organisation and to the impact Zaytoun delivers.

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Executive support

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• Manage the MD’s diary, inbox, travel, and meeting logistics
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• Draft, proofread and provide input on correspondence, reports and other written materials
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• Prepare agendas, take minutes, and follow up on actions arising from meetings
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Project tracking & research

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• Monitor deadlines and help the MD track progress on priorities
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• Conduct research and prepare background notes to support decision-making
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• Ensure smooth information flow between the MD, staff, board, and external partners including customers and suppliers
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General support

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• Act as a filter for incoming communication, drafting or signposting responses and flagging what needs the MD’s attention
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• Handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism
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• Provide ad hoc support for events, communications, and other projects as needed
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• Help the MD develop and formalise internal policies
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• Support the MD with the recruitment and hiring process (including advertising roles, shortlisting candidates and arranging interview)
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This list is indicative, not exhaustive – we’re a small team and everyone helps where needed.

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What you’ll bring

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• Proven experience as an EA, PA, or similar role supporting a senior leader
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• Outstanding organisational skills, detail-oriented, able to manage competing priorities
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• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
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• Discretion, sound judgement, and the ability to handle sensitive matters
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• A proactive, solutions-focused approach; able to anticipate needs
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• Confidence working independently while collaborating effectively in a small, dynamic team
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• Ease with digital tools and technology, including Microsoft Office Suite and AI - to streamline tasks, research, and communication
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• Familiarity with social media platforms, especially Instagram, LinkedIn (ideal but not essential)
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• Enthusiasm for our mission
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What you’ll get

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• A pivotal role working in close partnership with the MD, with exposure to both strategy and operations
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• The opportunity to contribute to an award-winning social enterprise with a unique and urgent mission
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• A supportive, collaborative workplace where your work has visible impact
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How to apply

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Please send your CV and a cover note (why this role, why Zaytoun, and your earliest start date) to [email protected] with the subject line Executive Assistant.

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We are actively reviewing and interviewing candidates on a rolling basis and may close this posting as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

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Eligibility: Applicants must be resident in, and have the right to work in, the UK.

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Equal opportunities: Zaytoun is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, abilities and experiences.