Personal Assistant to the CEO

Contract Type: Fixed-term, 2 Years (with possibility of extension / permanent appointment)

About the Organisation

The Democratic Progress Institute (DPI) is a nongovernmental organisation committed to promoting peace, democracy building, dialogue and conflict resolution worldwide. Through comparative learning, research, high-level engagement and practical support, DPI works with a wide network of stakeholders to strengthen democratic and inclusive approaches to conflict resolution.

Role Overview

DPI is seeking a highly organised and motivated Personal Assistant to the CEO to support the implementation of DPI’s programmes, coordinate events and publications, and provide professional administrative and strategic support to the CEO. This is a hands-on dynamic role involving a combination of project coordination, research, communications, and executive support.

The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional written English, strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain confidentiality while working in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

CEO Support

• Manage and maintain the CEO’s schedule, appointments and correspondence.

• Prepare meeting briefings, talking points, speeches and background notes.

• Coordinate travel arrangements, visas, itineraries, budgets and expense claims.

• Support CEO-led meetings, take minutes and follow up on action points.

• Maintain filing systems, contact databases and programme records.

• Assist with coordination and oversight of interns and small research assignments.

• Provide basic IT and device support to the CEO.

• Assist with basic budgeting and expense sheets.

Research & Publications

• Conduct small scale research and synthesize findings for internal and external use.

• Work with programmes officers to support DPI project and initiatives

Person Specification

Essential

• At least 3 years’ experience in a related field.

• Right to work in the UK.

• Bachelor’s degree in international relations, Political Science, Law, or related field.

• Demonstrated excellence in written English, including grammar and editing.

• Strong research and analytical skills.

• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Experience using publication layout or design software (e.g. InDesign, Canva or similar).

• Strong digital literacy and familiarity with communication technologies.

• Professional discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Calm, confident and adaptable under pressure.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Willingness to travel occasionally for short periods.

Desirable

• Interest in peacebuilding, human rights, democracy support or conflict resolution and programme coordination.

Equal Opportunities

DPI maintains employment policies which ensure that no one is unfairly discriminated against, whether directly or indirectly, on any grounds including race, ethnic origin, culture, gender, sexuality, disability, age or religion. These policies will apply in relation to all those involved in the work of the organisation including paid staff, trainees, consultants, interns, volunteers, those offering services on a pro bono basis and trustees.

DPI is committed to Equal Opportunities and Cultural Diversity. Unfortunately, we believe that we will be unsuccessful in obtaining a work permit for these posts. For this reason you should only apply if you already have the right to work within the United Kingdom. This includes citizens of the European Union. Please refer to http://www.workpermits.gov.uk/ for more information about work permit eligibility.

DPI SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT

DPI maintains zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse. All employment offers are conditional upon the receipt of satisfactory references and the signing of our code of conduct, Safeguarding Policy with a particular focus on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and Child Safeguarding. This position will also be subject to robust reference and background screening checks.

How to apply

How to Apply

Please submit a CV and cover letter (maximum 2 pages) explaining how you meet the essential criteria to: Akinola (Operations.support@democraticprogress.org)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the post is filled.