Executive Assistant to the Principal

Salary £43,099 per annum (inclusive of cost of living increase)

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week.

About the role

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced administration professionals for the full time post of Executive Assistant to the Principal at Newnham College, Cambridge.

Playing a key role in the life of the College, the main duties of the post are to co-ordinate and manage the efficient day-to-day running of the Principal’s office, to ensure the smooth flow of incoming and outgoing work and information, to research and draft papers and reports for the Principal and to deliver specific projects. The Executive Assistant supports the Principal, and those around her, in delivering the Principal’s responsibilities across the full range and variety of her activities both within the College, University and the wider community.

The annual salary for this post is paid at point 45 on the University’s single salary spine which equates to £43,099 per annum from 1 August 2026. The College offers other benefits, including 33 days a year holiday inclusive of bank holidays, an additional paid day of leave on your Birthday, free lunches and parking when on duty, free use of the College gym and the post is pensionable under the College’s attractive contributory pension scheme (USS) with a current employer contribution rate of 14.5%. 

About you

This role would suit someone who has experience of, and will be at ease with, dealing and negotiating with people at all levels and who has excellent written skills. We are seeking someone who can work pro-actively with tact and discretion, and who has a strong understanding of the challenges and pressures of a fast-paced working environment, academic, or otherwise, and who is ready to meet those challenges. This vacancy represents an ideal opportunity to take a lead administrative role, in a vibrant, supportive community.

About Newnham College

Founded in 1871, Newnham College has been at the forefront of promoting academic excellence for women in the University of Cambridge for 150 years. The College has an all-women Fellowship and student body, and its thriving community of staff includes both women and men with a range of responsibilities and roles.

How to apply

A job description with person specification is available by clicking on “Job Description” and an application form and equal opportunities form can be found by clicking the 'Apply' button above. Please demonstrate in the application form how you meet the essential requirements of the role found in the person specification.

Completed applications should be emailed to HR@newn.cam.ac.uk by the closing deadline of noon on Monday 17 August. The intention is to hold interviews on Wednesday 26 August.

Newnham College is an equal opportunities employer.

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