Temporary Secretariat Support Officer
Saffron Walden / Hybrid
Temporary assignment - 3-4 months
Hourly rate (PAYE or umbrella)
Start: January 2026
Robert Half is recruiting a Temporary Secretariat Support Officer on behalf of a client based in Saffron Walden. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced governance or board administrator to provide high-level secretariat support during a period of cover, working closely with senior leaders.
The role
Reporting to the Chief of Staff, you will support the Governance & Secretariat function, ensuring the smooth and compliant operation of Board and Committee meetings.
Key responsibilities include:
* Preparing for Board and Committee meetings, including drafting agendas, scheduling meetings, and collating papers
* Providing on-site and virtual administrative support (room bookings, technology setup, attendance management)
* Taking accurate minutes, capturing decisions and actions, and circulating documentation promptly
* Maintaining action logs, registers, and governance records
* Supporting governance and compliance processes, ensuring confidentiality and information security
* Building effective working relationships with Non-Executive Directors, Executive Directors, and senior stakeholders
About you
You will bring:
* Proven experience in Secretariat Services, including Board or Committee administration
* Experience working within a regulated or complex organisation
* Confidence supporting senior leadership, including NEDs and Executive teams
* Strong minute-taking, organisation, and document management skills
* Excellent attention to detail, planning, and time management
* Clear and professional written and verbal communication
* Familiarity with board/committee portals (e.g. Diligent) and governance frameworks
* A professional qualification or training in company/board secretarial practice (e.g. CGI/ICSA) is desirable but not essential
Why apply?
This temporary assignment offers the chance to:
* Support effective governance and decision-making at Board level
* Work closely with senior leaders in a professional, high-impact environment
* Further develop your secretariat and governance experience
Please note: occasional early morning or evening availability and travel to meeting locations may be required.