Executive Assistant to the Chief of Operations
FCDO Services
Apply before 11:55 pm on Monday 9th March 2026
Reference number: 450386
Salary: £31,898
Plus £1,750 location allowance
Contract type: Fixed term
Working pattern: Full-time
Length of employment: Up to 18 months
Location: Hanslope, South East England, MK19 7BH
Job summary
At FCDO Services we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings and courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we’re on. In our world, it all matters.
It goes without saying, therefore, that supporting our directors is full of opportunities to make an impact and requires someone with exceptional communication skills and an impeccable eye for detail.
Supporting national security.
Finding the perfect balance.
Taking pride in your work.
It all matters.
Job description
Work on a wide range of exciting projects
The Chief of Operations (CoO) Office sits at the heart of FCDO Services Operational delivery, providing both personal and operational support to the Chief of Operations to oversee a directorate of approx. 800 staff globally and a complex portfolio of products, services and projects. We act as an interface to the operational senior leadership team and wider business to provide focus and support to maximise impact of the Chief of Operations’ work to deliver effective performance of the operational portfolio.
When you join us you’ll be ready for change, and possess the calm flexibility to reprioritise and rearrange at any time. Considering the vast range of vital operations and services we’re involved in worldwide, supporting the Chief of Operations is always a role which is continually changing and requires priority management. Naturally, that makes the role challenging, but if you’re ready to use your exceptional organisational skills to support a wide range of exciting projects, and have the drive to stay on your toes, it’s hugely rewarding.
Communicate clearly with customers at the very highest levels
As the Executive Assistant to our Chief of Operationsyou’ll be part of a small busy team, and direct point of contact for everyone from the most senior colleagues to external stakeholders across government. With that in mind, we’ll expect you to be a born communicator, being clear, accurate and persuasive in everything you do. You’ll also collaborate superbly with colleagues and customers, be able to absorb complex data and confidential conversations, and create accurate briefings, minutes and reports to support the effectiveness of the organisation. Your input into projects will help the team meet key milestones. And your brilliant Microsoft Office skills and experience of electronic diary management will mean you’ll hit the ground running in this highly visible, fast-paced role.
Provide team support and find the support to take your career higher
You’ll be there to provide invaluable support and help us keep everything running smoothly. And we’ll be there to support you too in progressing your career and realising your ambitions. You’ll also enjoy great benefits, including flexible working, an on-site nursery, a Civil Service pension, and more. And finally, most importantly, there’s that sense of purpose you’ll feel every day – because you’ll be using your skills to support a business that helps protect people, information and assets across the globe. In short, it all matters.
All our employees have to be security cleared before joining us, so you’ll need to undergo a vetting process if you’re successful in your application. This role would require you to undergo Security Clearance (SC). You can find out more about vetting on our website.
Benefits
Alongside your salary of £31,898, FCDO Services contributes £9,240 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
* Learning and development tailored to your role.
* Annual leave starting at 25 days.
* A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity.
* A Civil Service pension.
* Free shuttle bus available between central Milton Keynes and Hanslope Park
Security
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed.
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