Personal Secretary

Join our team at Merville Barracksas aPersonal Secretary to the Deputy Commander of the 16 Air Assault Brigade. You will play a crucial role in supporting one of the Armys Commanders by managing the Deputy Commanders daily schedule, coordinating logistics for senior military and civilian visits, and handling sensitive information with the utmost professionalism and discretion. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the operational efficiency of a high-profile military unit while interacting with key personnel at all levels.Key Responsibilities:Executive Support: Manage and organise the Deputy Commanders official programme, including visits to Brigade units, HQ, and overseas engagements. You will coordinate appointments, meetings, and conferences while ensuring timely and efficient delivery of all actions.Confidentiality & Discretion: Handle highly confidential and sensitive information with the highest levels of integrity, tact, and professionalism. You will be trusted to manage the Deputy Commanders inbox, process incoming and outgoing correspondence, and provide briefings on time-sensitive matters.Travel & Accommodation: Organise the Deputy Commanders travel arrangements (domestic and international), including hotel bookings, flight tickets, transport, and catering needs. Ensure smooth logistical coordination for all official visits and engagements.Client & Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication between the Deputy Commander and Brigade staff, as well as external agencies and visitors. Maintain professional relationships with high-level contacts on a daily basis.Event Coordination: Plan and coordinate official entertainment, including guest lists, liaising with catering staff, and submitting claim forms. Your role will involve high levels of coordination to ensure flawless events.High-Pressure Environment: Work independently in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities and deadlines. You will be expected to remain calm, organised, and focused under pressure, delivering results with attention to detail and efficiency.What Youll Bring:Required Qualifications:Minimum of 3 GCSEs Grade C or equivalent or NVQ Level 1/2 in Business Administration.Strong experience in a secretarial or executive support role.Audio transcription skills or shorthand qualifications (desirable).Security clearance required for access to sensitive information.Key Skills & Experience:Outstanding Communication: You must demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with senior personnel, both military and civilian.Organisational Expertise: Strong time management and organisational skills are essential, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and prioritise under pressure.Tech-Savvy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn internal systems (MODNET and Defence Information Management systems).Discretion & Professionalism: The role requires handling sensitive military and personal information. Experience in environments where confidentiality is paramount is essential.Desirable Experience:Knowledge of the MOD and military protocols.Previous experience supporting senior military or executive leaders.Training in Defence Information Management (DIMP) or a willingness to complete mandatory e-learning courses.Audio or Shorthand Grade Entry Test or acceptable external qualifications in typist and audio/or shorthand, e.g., Audio Stage III (Advanced) – Distinction or Audio Transcription III (Part 2) – Distinction/Pitmans Audio (Advanced 120) – First Class.What we offer:Working with Sodexo is more than a job; its a chance to be part of something greater. Youll belong in a company and team that values you for you; youll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and youll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we also offer a range of resources, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families:Unlimited access to an online platform offering mental health and wellbeing support.Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or larger problems where you may need additional support, including legal and financial advice, support with work related issues or personal issues such as bereavement.Access to a free health and wellbeing app that provides rewards for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and includes access to a 24hr virtual GP and various other services.The Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 (also open to friends and family) and/or the prepayment cashback card.Money Insights and financial benefits via the Salary Finance Platform.Save for your future by becoming a member of the Sodexo Retirement PlanA death in Service benefit for colleagues who pass away whilst employed by SodexoOpportunities to enable colleagues to grow and succeed throughout their career at Sodexo, including apprenticeships and a variety of learning and development tools.Cycle to Work Scheme to help colleagues to do their bit for the environment whilst keeping fit.Volunteering Opportunities to enable all colleagues to help support worthwhile causes in our communities.Flexible and dynamic work environmentCompetitive compensationFull training and full protective uniform suppliedReady to be part of something greater? Apply today!