Private Secretary to the Director for Higher Education Oversight

2 weeks ago


Sheffield, United Kingdom Department for Education Full time

Private Secretary to Director of Higher Education We are looking for an experienced Private Secretary to support the Director of Higher Education at the Department for Education. The role involves providing high‑quality support in a fast‑paced, high‑profile policy environment. Responsibilities Support the Director in their interactions with policy teams, Ministers and external stakeholders. Manage the Director’s diary and inbox, including commissioning and responding to emails on their behalf. Prepare weekly briefings and action lists to keep the Director on track in delivering objectives. Coordinate corporate commissioning to divisions, sourcing information, managing timelines and collating returns. Provide secretariat support to meetings, including taking minutes where required. Support the Head of Office in creating a positive workplace culture within the Directorate. Essential Criteria Strong problem‑solving ability and the initiative to devise creative solutions. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage competing priorities effectively. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels. Team player who is flexible and adaptable, delivering high‑quality work within agreed deadlines. Experience of managing senior officials’ agendas, correspondence and briefing documentation. Demonstrated ability to work to the high standards expected within the UK Civil Service. Application Process To apply, please submit the following: A concise CV highlighting relevant responsibilities and achievements. A Statement of Suitability (maximum 750 words) that addresses the essential criteria listed above. Applications will be assessed in two stages: an initial sift by the essential criteria, followed by an interview in January 2026 (exact dates subject to change). Eligibility Open to UK nationals, nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Commonwealth, EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and their settled or pre‑settled family members. Applicants must be able to work in the UK; the role is not available for overseas work. Equal Opportunities Department for Education is an equal opportunities employer and commits to diversity and inclusion. All applicants will be assessed based on merit and relevance to the role. Benefits Salary of £36,000 plus a pension contribution. 25 days’ annual leave (increasing to a maximum of 30 days after five years) plus public holidays. Flexible working arrangements and support for professional development. Standard Civil Service benefits including health and security clearances where required. #J-18808-Ljbffr



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