Executive Assistant

About the role

The Executive Assistant to the Head of School is a key partner, ensuring the Head of School is informed and prepared to lead effectively. This role requires utmost confidentiality and absolute discretion, serving as a member of the senior administration and providing direct support to the Board of Trustees. The successful candidate will manage sensitive information while reflecting the school's authentic, supportive culture in every interaction.

The Executive Assistant also serves as the primary support staff to the Board of Trustees, scheduling meetings, managing documents, and fostering a board culture aligned with the school's values. The school encourages candidates from under-represented groups and those with experience working with diverse populations to apply.

Responsibilities

• Ensure critical information flows efficiently between the Head of School and trustees, alumnae, faculty, staff, parents, and students, acting to carry out the Head of School’s intentions as needed.
• Proactively anticipate the needs of the Head of School, using discretion in scheduling, prioritizing meetings, and managing calendar events, travel, and other logistics.
• Serve as the staff resource to the Board of Trustees, including taking minutes at full board and committee meetings, scheduling meetings, and responding to the Board Chair’s support needs.
• Develop and maintain a password-protected portal for Trustees and Honorary Trustees, containing current meeting materials and resources, and manage all legal documents (By-Laws, Conflict of Interest and Disclosure, Trustee Responsibilities).
• Prepare new Trustees with orientation materials and plan the new Trustee orientation.
• Organize and plan events for the Head of School and Board of Trustees, modeling collaboration with staff to deliver fiscally responsible, brand-centric events.
• Make all travel arrangements for the Head of School and coordinate travel with the Head of Advancement and Head of Enrollment Management for alumnae, donor, and admissions events.
• Support the Head of School in operational areas and assist other senior administrators as requested to ensure smooth school operations.
• Draft, proofread, and format documents and correspondence.
• Maintain the Head of School’s calendar, managing an active schedule and protected time.
• Track and reconcile the Head of School’s monthly expenses.
• Plan and organize faculty/staff back-to-school and end-of-year celebrations.
• Occasionally work outside regular hours for board meetings and special events.
• Perform other duties as assigned, such as calendar management and special projects related to strategic initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of seven years of experience providing administrative support.
• Strong writing skills and ability to maintain confidentiality, intuitively understanding what must remain private.
• Appreciation for and commitment to Emma Willard’s mission.
• Flexible, responsible, and resourceful with effective time-management skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to work independently and creatively within established guidelines.
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities.
• Professional demeanor, sense of humor, pleasant phone manner, positive attitude, patience, and excellent listening skills.

Pay

$83,000 - $90,000 based on education and experience.