Job Advert
We have an exciting opportunity for an Executive Assistant to provide dedicated support to our CEO, with additional assistance to members of the executive team. This role is pivotal in ensuring the effectiveness, efficiency, and focus of the leadership group. Acting as a trusted advisor and point of contact, you will handle sensitive matters with the highest degree of confidentiality and discretion.
About Us
You will be joining a dynamic, family-owned business with a proud heritage dating back to 1917. A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd has grown into one of the UK’s leading privately owned companies, employing over 5,000 people and generating a turnover of £1.1 billion. Ranked as the 60th largest private business in the UK, A.F. Blakemore has food and drink at its core with operations spanning retail, wholesale distribution, foodservice, fresh meat, logistics, and shop fitting.
Tasks/Responsibilities
* Maintain and manage the complex scheduling primarily for the CEO and occasionally the executive team calendars, prioritising appointments, meetings, and travel schedules. Anticipating any potential conflicts and proactively reschedule as needed.
* Prepare briefing materials for meetings and ensure the CEO is well-informed for each engagement.
* Act as the primary point of contact for the CEO.
* Ensure effective, timely and accurate communication and information flow e.g. draft and respond to correspondence, including letters, and presentations.
* Research and book flights, hotels, and ground transportation for all executive travel.
* Manage the executive team expense reports and ensure compliance with company policies.
* Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to plan and execute successful travel itineraries.
* Provide project admin to assigned projects to completion, meeting deadlines and adhering to budget constraints.
* Research and gather information to support the CEO and executive teams decision-making processes.
* Prepare presentations and reports as needed.
* Organise events, both internal and off-site.
* Handle other administrative tasks as assigned.
* Manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Key Skills/Responsibilities
* Degree in business administration, communication, or a related field (preferred).
* 5+ years of experience as an executive assistant or in a similar administrative role.
* Proven track record of success in managing complex schedules, prioritising tasks, and meeting deadlines.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Strong organisational and time management skills.
* Experience in developing internal processes and event management
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Discretion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to confidentiality.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software programs.
What's In It For You
You will play a key role in our organisation and make a significant contribution to our ongoing success. In return, we offer comprehensive training, ongoing support, and continuous development opportunities — along with a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package.
* 34 days holiday per year including public holidays (Increasing after 3, 5 and 10 years)
* Mobile Phone & laptop
* Cycle to work scheme
* Develop your skills and capability in a highly supportive and multi-diverse culture
* Outstanding Training & Development opportunities
* Gain hands-on experience in a high volume, fast paced environment
* Enhanced Maternity & Paternity pay packages
* Flexible working hours opportunity
* Excellent additional benefits package including:
o Early access to your pay through ‘EarlyPay’
o 24/7 access to your payslips via HR/Payroll portal
o 12.5% Staff discount on fresh items & 10% Staff Discount on ambient products in our SPAR stores (ex. Alcohol & Cigarettes)
o Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice
o Company Pension Scheme
o Company Life Insurance worth 1 x Annual Salary and 6 x Annual Salary with Company Pension Scheme
o NEST pension scheme
o Extra Holiday - Purchase Scheme
o Long Service Awards
Inclusive environment: as a Disability Confident Committed employer we are dedicated to creating a fair, inclusive workplace for all. We offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role.
Department
Head Office
Contract type
Permanent
Hours
40 hours per week
Salary
Competitive
Benefits
Staff Discount, Company Pension Scheme, Company Sick Pay Scheme, Additional Holidays, Long Service Awards, Cycle to Work Scheme, Life Cover, Employee Volunteering opportunities
Closing date for applications
24th July, 2025
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