Executive Support Assistant

About the job

Key information

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, the largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service in England, is on the lookout for an Executive Support Assistant to join our Democratic and Executive Support Services team at our Service Headquarters in Exeter. This is a permanent, part time position (22.2 hours per week) that offers a competitive salary starting at £26,824 rising annually to £28,598 per annum pro rata. This equates to £16,094.40 – £17,158.80 for working 22.2 hours per week.

At Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, our mission is to create a safer world by preventing fire and rescue emergencies. We pride ourselves on our fantastic reputation, built on the dedication and expertise of our skilled workforce. By joining us, you will be a key player in enhancing the services we provide across beautiful Devon and Somerset.

What will I be doing?

As an Executive Support Assistant, you will be part of the Executive Support team that provides support to Executive Officer and selected individuals from the Service Leadership Team. You will undertake a range of duties including servicing and attendance at meetings (including minute production) and assistance with corporate events (e.g. award ceremonies). Part of the role also includes providing a professional and efficient service for the Reception and Post Room at our Service Headquarters.

Key Responsibilities of our Executive Support Assistant role:

As a member of the Executive Support team and having due regard to the confidentiality associated with the position, you will undertake a range of duties for Officers. Such duties include, but are not limited to the following:

• To create, store, revise and print documents e.g. letters, reports, memoranda, notes and minutes of meetings utilising a variety of digital packages. Prepare presentations as required using appropriate software.

• To compose letters / memoranda as required on own initiative or as directed.

• To arrange meetings and appointments and maintain a diary of appointments. Obtain and collate information required for appointments and meetings and operate an effective bring forward system.

• To arrange hotel accommodation and travel as necessary.

• To maintain and update filing systems as appropriate including correspondence, papers for meetings, circulars and other documents as required.

• To answer, as required, all incoming telephone calls, dealing directly with enquiries where appropriate or referring to relevant officers within the Department and where necessary ensuring follow up by officers in a way consistent with the values and image of the Service.

• Support the administration of the Principal Officers and Area Manager rota.

• Operating the Reception switchboard in a professional and efficient manner, routing incoming calls to the correct person, taking messages and referring them to the correct Officer as soon as possible.

• Answering enquiries at the reception desk and informing the Officer required, who should attend at reception.

• Issuing Visitor Passes.

• Dealing efficiently and effectively with deliveries – both incoming and outgoing.

• General clerical assistant to be carried out within the reception office, commensurate with the grade of the post, as directed by the Executive Support Team Leader.

• Post Room duties as required.

• Administering bookings / calendars for the Conference Rooms at Service Headquarters.

• To take delivery of refreshments / lunch as required for meetings involving the Executive Board, Members of the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority or both and on behalf of other departments.

What is in it for me?

Joining Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service comes with a fulfilling career, where you make a tangible difference every day. But that’s not all! We value our employees and offer an extensive benefits package, including:

• Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance

• A generous pension scheme for your future

• Ample annual leave to recharge and refresh

• Family leave policies that support your loved ones

• Access to physiotherapy services for your well-being

• Opportunities for professional development and progression

• Free gym access and personalised fitness coaching

• Support for eye care and wellness programs

• Exclusive Blue Light Membership discounts

• Affordable healthcare options through Benenden Health

• Engaging sports and social groups for community building

• Confidential counselling services and mental health support

• Access to the Firefighters Charity for additional support

• A cycle-to-work scheme to promote healthy commuting

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Services’ Safeguarding Policy.

Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and as such it is our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences, cautions and reprimands.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority are committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, as such any positive disclosures will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response.

As a Service and as individuals:

• We are proud to help

• We are honest

• We are respectful

• We are working together

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve, and we aspire for this to be reflected in our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experience and beliefs, who share our values to consider working for us.

Apply on the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service website

Apply now