Personal Assistant

Unlocking Opportunity: A Review of the Executive Assistant Role at Nominet

This review offers an insightful look into the Permanent Executive Assistant position at Nominet, designed to guide potential candidates in understanding the unique advantages and key considerations for their career development. Nominet presents a compelling proposition for professionals seeking a role that is both impactful and offers excellent professional growth.

About Nominet: A Purpose-Driven Leader

Nominet stands as a world-leading domain name registry, playing a crucial role in the UK's internet infrastructure. Beyond their core operations, Nominet is a public benefit company with a strong commitment to social impact. Their substantial donations and dedication to using technology for societal good, particularly in supporting projects that enhance people's lives, make this an organisation where your work contributes to a larger, positive mission. This is a significant advantage for candidates who value purpose alongside their professional endeavours.

The Role: A Dynamic and Rewarding Opportunity

This Executive Assistant position is described as varied and rewarding, ideal for individuals who excel in fast-paced and dynamic environments. You will be an integral part of the operational backbone, working closely with the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and the Company Secretary. The core of the role involves seamless management of schedules, priorities, and complex logistics, allowing senior leaders to concentrate on strategic initiatives. This level of direct support to high-level executives offers invaluable exposure and learning opportunities.

Key Responsibilities and Skill Development:

This role offers a comprehensive development path through its diverse responsibilities:

• Diary & Meeting Management: Sharpen your organisational and time management skills by coordinating complex diaries, ensuring leaders are fully prepared for all engagements. This includes meticulous preparation of papers, actions, and timely follow-ups, along with precise minute-taking.
• Board & Governance Support: Gain insight into corporate governance by coordinating Board and Committee meetings, including all logistical aspects. You'll play a vital role in maintaining accurate records and supporting the preparation of critical documents for executive and board-level discussions.
• Event & Travel Coordination: Develop your project management and planning abilities by orchestrating executive and board events, offsites, and external visits. The arrangement of complex domestic and international travel, including visa management, will hone your logistical prowess.
• Administrative & Project Support: Enhance your attention to detail and professional presentation skills through the preparation and formatting of high-standard documentation and correspondence. Handling confidential information with discretion will be paramount.
• Collaboration & Proactive Support: This role emphasizes teamwork and proactive problem-solving. You'll collaborate with the wider PA team, providing essential cover and continuity, and act as a trusted partner to senior leaders, anticipating their needs and ensuring smooth operations.

What Nominet is Looking For:

Nominet is seeking a candidate with proven experience supporting senior executives in demanding environments. Key attributes include:

• Exceptional organisational skills and a meticulous eye for detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Advanced proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration tools.
• Experience in designing and improving administrative workflows, with a keen interest in leveraging automation, AI tools, and business intelligence platforms like Power BI for enhanced efficiency.
• Adaptability, proactivity, and the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.

The emphasis on improving workflows and utilizing modern tools is a significant advantage for candidates looking to advance their technical and process improvement skills within an administrative context.

What to Expect in the Hiring Process:

The hiring process is structured to provide a comprehensive evaluation:

• A brief introductory call with the Talent Acquisition team.
• A detailed interview with the hiring manager.
• A practical assessment and values-based interview, which includes an onsite component at their Oxford office. This provides candidates with an opportunity to experience the working environment firsthand.

Why Nominet Stands Out: What They Offer

Nominet provides a compelling package of benefits that support employee well-being and work-life balance:

• Hybrid & Flexible Working: The role offers a hybrid model with a minimum of 20% presence in the Oxford office, providing a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Enhanced Work Week: An "Early Finish Friday" means a 34-hour working week for full-time pay, offering a significant quality of life benefit.
• Generous Leave: 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 5 days.
• Comprehensive Benefits: This includes Private Medical Insurance, an Employee Assistance Programme, a matched Pension Scheme up to 7%, and an annual bonus scheme.
• Family Support: Enhanced family leave provisions.
• Modern Amenities: An electric vehicle scheme with on-site charging points.
• Employee Perks: Access to a rewards platform with numerous discounts.

Diversity and Inclusion at Nominet

Nominet is commendably committed to fostering a workplace where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered. They actively seek to benefit from all forms of diversity. Candidates are encouraged to inform them of any adjustments needed during the recruitment process to support their participation.

Security: A Foundational Commitment

As a guardian of critical internet infrastructure, Nominet places a high emphasis on security. All roles are subject to a Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) check, and some may require additional security clearance, reflecting the importance of their mission.

Career Path Considerations:

For ambitious professionals, this role at Nominet offers several avenues for career advancement:

• Strategic Exposure: Working directly with the ELT and Company Secretary provides unparalleled insight into high-level decision-making and corporate strategy.
• Process Improvement Skills: The emphasis on leveraging technology and improving administrative workflows will equip you with valuable modern operational skills highly sought after in the market.
• Governance Knowledge: Direct involvement in board support will build a strong foundation in corporate governance and compliance.
• Networking Opportunities: Building relationships with senior leaders and cross-functional teams within a respected organisation.
• Impactful Contribution: The opportunity to contribute to a public benefit company with a clear social mission can be incredibly fulfilling and add a unique dimension to your professional profile.

This is an excellent opportunity for an Executive Assistant looking to deepen their expertise, expand their skillset, and contribute to a company with a clear and positive societal impact. The blend of challenging responsibilities, excellent benefits, and a commitment to employee well-being makes this a role well worth considering for those looking to elevate their career.