Personal Assistant to Director of External Relations

About the University of Sunderland  

The University of Sunderland offers life-changing opportunities for 27,500 students across its campuses in Sunderland, London, Hong Kong, and through global partnerships with learning institutions in 19 countries. We're proud to be a top 50 UK university (Guardian University Guide 2024), with top-quality facilities, inclusive culture, and our vibrant, ever-changing city. 

The University of Sunderland is in an exciting phase of its development with a new vision and redefined strategic ambitions designed to take advantage of the ever-changing higher education landscape at home and overseas.  

External Relations plays a central role in delivering the University’s objectives – working with both internal and external stakeholders to support student recruitment and build reputation. The Director's remit covers marketing, digital, communications and philanthropic activity, the National Glass Centre, and the Cultural Spring.

About the role 

We’re seeking a highly professional and experienced Personal Assistant to provide dedicated executive-level support to Kath MacLeod, Director of External Relations. 

In this pivotal role, you’ll act as Kath’s right hand, managing day-to-day responsibilities and delivering a seamless, high-quality administrative service. Your support will be essential in helping Kath lead a dynamic and wide-reaching portfolio.   

The External Relations team plays a vital role in achieving the University’s strategic goals, particularly in student recruitment and reputation-building. Kath’s remit as Director spans marketing, digital, communications, and philanthropic initiatives, as well as oversight of the National Glass Centre and The Cultural Spring. Kath also leads on the University’s civic engagement, working closely with key partners such as Sunderland City Council and serving on the board of Sunderland’s Business Improvement Districts (BID). 

As PA you’ll be a trusted point of contact for senior leaders across the University and high-profile stakeholders across the city and region. 

This is a part-time role, offering 18.5 hours per week, with flexibility at its core.  We’re happy to explore a working pattern that suits your lifestyle. Not only are the hours adaptable, but we also offer hybrid working—giving you the freedom to split your time between the office and a location that works best for you.

What you can bring  

You’ll have solid experience providing high-level, confidential support in a Personal Assistant role, with the ability to manage diaries and day-to-day priorities with confidence and care. Your strengths will include: 

Excellent organisational and forward-planning skills 

A keen eye for detail and a proactive, can-do attitude 

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a focus on delivering great service 

Proficiency in IT and administrative systems, particularly Microsoft Office and Outlook 

What we can offer you  

Our University is not just a place of academic excellence, but also a community that embraces inclusivity and support. We value our staff and offer a rewarding package that goes beyond just salary. At the University of Sunderland, we prioritise not only your professional growth but also your happiness and well-being. 

Enjoy a generous annual leave entitlement of 31 days, along with an additional 5 closure days over the Christmas break and 8 Bank Holidays.  Enrolment into our pension scheme, ensuring your financial security for the future.  Access to our “My Lifestyle Benefits Platform”, where you can enjoy online discounts at hundreds of retailers every day. Plus, take advantage of exclusive schemes that allow you to purchase a new car, bike, or technology at a discounted rate.  Your health and well-being are important to us. That's why we provide access to discounted private medical insurance, health cash plans, and guidance on financial well-being. Maintaining an active lifestyle is made easy with discounted membership for CitySpace Fitness, our state-of-the-art facility for sports and social activities.  

 Equality, diversity & inclusion  

We strongly believe that an inclusive university, where a diverse range of individuals feel valued and have equal opportunity to get into work and reach their potential, is good for our staff, students, university, and society. 

Our work on equality, diversity and inclusivity has never been more important. We believe inclusivity is an essential value at the heart of what we do, and we want all our staff to be part of that journey with us. 

Our recent staff survey conducted in 2023 showed that 97% of our staff believed that we were committed to achieving an inclusive university. 

The closing date for applications is Sunday 6 July (23.59 GMT). 

Interview date TBC.

For informal enquiries, please contact Kath MacLeod, Director of External Relations - katherine.macleod@sunderland.ac.uk. 

Closing Date: 06 Jul 2025

Team: Support

Salary: £27,471 to £29,924 per annum pro rata - £13,735 - £14,962