Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant To The President

Reporting directly to the President, the Executive Assistant provides executive support in a one-to-one working relationship. The Executive Assistant serves as the primary point of contact for internal and external constituencies on all matters pertaining to the Office of the President. The Executive Assistant also serves as a liaison to senior management and organizes and oversees special projects.

The Executive Assistant must be creative and enjoy working within a mission-driven and results-oriented environment. Must exercise good judgment in a variety of situations, with expert level written and verbal communication, administrative, and organization skills, and possess the ability to maintain a realistic balance among multiple priorities. Must be a highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be able to work independently on projects from conception to completion and be able to work under pressure. Must be able to handle confidential matters with discretion.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs job duties in accordance with Columbia College's vision, mission and values, and contributes to the development of the President's office.
• Completes a broad variety of administrative tasks for the President including managing an extremely active calendar of appointments; completing expense reports; composing and preparing confidential correspondence; arranging detailed travel plans, itineraries, and agendas.
• Assists and performs all duties as directed by the Board Chair so board meetings are prepared and conducted properly.
• Communicates directly, on behalf of the President, with various constituencies on matters related to the President's programmatic initiatives. Researches, prioritizes, and often follows up on issues and concerns addressed to the President, including those of a sensitive or confidential nature.
• Provides a bridge for smooth communication between the President's office and internal departments, demonstrating leadership to maintain credibility, trust and support with senior management staff.
• Works closely and effectively with the President to keep him well informed of upcoming commitments and responsibilities, following up appropriately. Acts as "barometer," having a sense for the issues taking place in the environment and keeping the President updated.
• Provides leadership to build relationships crucial to the success of the organization and manages a variety of special projects for the President, some of which may have organizational impact.
• Fulfills additional responsibilities as assigned.
• This position will be expected to be in person and work in the office.
• Exhibits punctuality during the established hours of operation (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and works additional hours as business necessitates.

Essential Functions:

• Ability to fluently read, write and understand the English language.
• Proficiency with the following, but not limited to: active listening; speaking; writing; critical thinking; judgment and decision making; monitoring; reading comprehension; time management; coordination; and management of personnel resources.
• Proficiency for using a variety of computer and technology-related software and equipment, including Microsoft Office products and database systems.
• Proficiency for using web-based technologies, including database systems.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment, with or without direct supervision.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, customer service and organizational skills with all constituents.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree Minimum Experience:

• Expert level written and verbal communications skills, including the ability to draft high quality correspondence for the President.
• Strong organizational skills that reflect ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail.
• Very strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders with all constituencies.
• Demonstrative proactive approaches to problem-solving with strong decision-making capability.
• Emotional maturity.
• Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently.
• Proven ability to handle confidential information with discretion, be adaptable to various competing demands, and demonstrate the highest level of customer service and response.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Forward looking thinker, who actively seeks opportunities and proposes solutions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point).
• Progressive responsibilities within a business setting.
• Experience in working in a college environment.