Job Introduction
About Us
Make a real impact on how local government works in Oxfordshire.
We are seeking a highly organised, proactive Personal Assistant to support two programme directors delivering the council’s response to national reforms – Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution. These programmes follow the Government’s English Devolution White Paper and are central to shaping future local authority structures and devolved powers. You’ll be at the heart of strategic change, ensuring our senior leaders can operate at pace, with precision and impact.
About the Role
You will be supporting two programme directors to drive forward some of the most significant transformation projects in Oxfordshire’s recent history.
You will provide comprehensive, confidential, and proactive executive support – planning, organising, and acting on behalf of the Programme Directors so they can focus on outcomes. Supporting delivery by tracking actions to completion, working closely with the core team to ensure project milestones are met. Day-to-day, will include coordinating complex diaries; arranging, setting up and minuting senior meetings; preparing and finalising agendas and papers; handling sensitive correspondence and telephone enquiries; and identifying innovative solutions and maintaining effective systems that enable a high-quality service. You’ll liaise closely with elected Members, the Leadership Team and colleagues across the organisation, spot politically sensitive issues early and escalate appropriately.
About you
You will be an experienced PA with a strong track record of supporting senior leaders in a fast-paced environment. You will be confident managing multiple priorities, building relationships across teams, and working with discretion and professionalism.
Experience in supporting transformation programmes or working in a political or public sector context would be an advantage. Familiarity with Oxfordshire County Council’s strategic priorities and governance structures is desirable.
This exciting secondment opportunity offers a chance to contribute directly to shaping the future of local government in Oxfordshire. You’ll be part of a dynamic and supportive team, working closely with colleagues across the council and with external partners.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Emma Castle, Business Support Manager on 01865 815438.
Rewards and benefits
- Culture of flexible working
- Technology to support agile working where role permits
- 29 day’s holiday p.a. plus bank holidays
- Option to ‘buy’ additional holiday
- Employee Assistance Programme including access to health and wellbeing support
- Membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, with an employer’s contribution of up to 19.9%
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Local and national discounts for shopping and travel
- Great learning and development opportunities to support your ongoing development.
Our commitment to:
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Oxfordshire County Council we are proud of our diverse workforce. Everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or on maternity or family leave. We have a number of staff network groups which provide peer support, education and safe spaces for all.
Our commitment to:
Guaranteed Interview Schemes
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job. We also guarantee interviews to care leavers who have completed further education and who meet the essential criteria for the job. For those leaving care without any further education, we guarantee an interview for our apprenticeships. We are also committed to helping and supporting those transitioning from HM Armed Forces to civilian life and guarantee an interview for those demonstrating the essential criteria for the role, within three years of leaving the service.
Our commitment to:
Safeguarding
Oxfordshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect these commitments.
Our commitment to:
Flexible Working
We are open to discussions about flexible working, which can include flexi-time, part time working, job sharing, nine-day fortnights and annualised hours, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.
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Please contact us at: Emma.Castle@oxfordshire.gov.uk
