Personal Assistant reference: 0000072773

Unlocking Your Potential: A Review of the Personal Assistant Opportunity at Barclays

For ambitious professionals seeking to elevate their administrative and organizational expertise within a prestigious financial institution, this Personal Assistant (PA) role at Barclays presents a compelling opportunity. This position is more than just a support function; it's a strategic partnership designed to empower senior leadership and contribute to the smooth operation of a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• High-Impact Role: This is not a passive position. As a PA to Directors, you will be at the heart of critical decision-making processes, managing key forums, governance meetings, and acting as a vital liaison. Your organizational prowess will directly influence the efficiency and effectiveness of senior executives.
• Skill Development and Growth: Barclays emphasizes continuous improvement and professional development. This role offers a unique chance to hone exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. You'll gain invaluable experience in managing confidential and complex matters, developing a sophisticated understanding of corporate governance, and potentially being assessed on critical skills like risk and controls, change management, and strategic thinking.
• Proactive and Autonomous Environment: The description highlights the need for a "highly proactive and resourceful" individual. This is an advantage for candidates who thrive on taking initiative, anticipating needs, and resolving issues before they arise. You will be empowered to take ownership and operate with a significant degree of autonomy.
• Exposure to Senior Leadership: Working closely with Directors provides unparalleled insight into the strategic direction of Barclays. This exposure is invaluable for career progression, offering a unique perspective on business operations and leadership.
• Structured Secondment Opportunity: The 12-month secondment format provides a defined period to immerse yourself in this role, gain extensive experience, and make a significant contribution. This can be an excellent stepping stone for further opportunities within Barclays or a valuable experience to add to your professional portfolio.
• Location Flexibility: With opportunities available in Knutsford, London, and Northampton, candidates have the flexibility to choose a location that best suits their personal circumstances.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience is Paramount: A proven track record as a Personal Assistant in a corporate setting is a prerequisite. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their experience in managing complex diaries, coordinating travel, and preparing high-quality documents and presentations.
• The "Proactive" Mindset: The emphasis on initiative cannot be overstated. Candidates who are accustomed to waiting for instructions may find this role challenging. Success here requires a forward-thinking approach and the ability to identify and act on opportunities independently.
• Navigating High-Level Stakeholders: The ability to confidently interact with and support high-level forums and senior stakeholders is crucial. This involves not only excellent communication but also a strong sense of professional presence and discretion.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The fast-paced nature of the role means you'll need to be comfortable managing multiple priorities under pressure. The capacity to adapt quickly to changing demands and maintain composure is essential.
• Understanding Barclays Values and Mindset: Success will also hinge on embodying the Barclays Values (Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, Stewardship) and Mindset (Empower, Challenge, Drive). Candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these principles.
• Potential for Broader Skill Assessment: Be prepared for assessments that may extend beyond traditional PA duties to encompass areas like risk and controls, change and transformation, business acumen, strategic thinking, and digital and technology.

This Personal Assistant role at Barclays offers a significant opportunity for professional growth and development within a leading financial institution. By understanding the advantages and key considerations outlined above, candidates can thoughtfully assess their fit for this dynamic and rewarding position and strategically position themselves for success.