Johannesburg: Personal Assistant to CEO

Job Specification: Executive Personal Assistant to the CEO – ConstructionPosition Title Executive Personal Assistant (Executive PA) to the CEO Industry Construction / Infrastructure / Property Development Reports To Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Location Head Office (national exposure; occasional travel required) Role Purpose The Executive Personal Assistant to the CEO provides strategic, operational, and administrative support within a fast-paced construction environment. This role extends beyond traditional PA duties and requires a solid understanding of the construction industry, enabling the Executive PA to confidently act as a first point of contact, assist with operational matters, and resolve issues when the CEO is unavailable. Key Responsibilities – Executive & Strategic Support – Act as a trusted right-hand to the CEO. – Manage the CEO’s diary, priorities, meetings, and travel arrangements. – Prepare briefing packs, reports, and presentations for executive and board meetings. – Anticipate CEO requirements and proactively manage deadlines. – Track strategic actions, follow-ups, and commitments. Key Responsibilities – Construction & Operational Support – Maintain a working knowledge of construction projects, site operations, and terminology. – Act as liaison between the CEO and operational, project, and commercial teams. – Assist in addressing operational queries when the CEO is unavailable. – Understand key project risks and operational pressures. Key Responsibilities – Problem Solving & Decision Support – Handle day-to-day issues confidently in the CEO’s absence. – Gather information, assess risks, and propose solutions. – Prioritise urgent matters and escalate where required. – Ensure continuity of leadership communication. Key Responsibilities – Stakeholder & Communication Management – Serve as a professional first point of contact for stakeholders. – Communicate on behalf of the CEO with authority and discretion. – Manage sensitive and confidential information. – Coordinate communication across departments and projects. Key Responsibilities – Administration & Governance – Manage confidential correspondence and executive documentation. – Maintain structured filing systems. – Support governance processes and executive reporting. – Assist with board packs, minutes, and communications. Key Responsibilities – Coordination & Follow-Up – Track executive actions and project updates. – Ensure follow-through on decisions. – Coordinate cross-functional inputs. – Flag risks or delays proactively. Qualifications – Qualification in Business Administration, Office Management, or Project Management. – Construction-related exposure or qualification advantageous. Experience – 5–8 years’ experience as an Executive or Senior PA supporting a CEO or executive. – Experience in construction, engineering, infrastructure, or similar environment. – Proven ability to operate independently. – Experience supporting senior leadership or boards. Industry Knowledge – Understanding of project-based construction operations. – Familiarity with site and head office dynamics. – Ability to grasp contractual and financial concepts at a high level. Skills & Competencies – Exceptional organisational and time-management skills. – Strong written and verbal communication. – Confident decision-making and problem-solving ability. – High emotional intelligence. – Advanced MS Office proficiency. Personal Attributes – Highly professional and discreet. – Calm, confident, and solutions-oriented. – Proactive and detail-driven. – Strong sense of accountability. Key Performance Indicators – Effectiveness of CEO support. – Quality of executive communications. – Responsiveness in CEO’s absence. – Stakeholder satisfaction. – Follow-through on actions. Remuneration Competitive, market-related package aligned to senior executive support level.