Senior Executive Assistant – Chief Executive & Board Support

Kaiāwhina Matua – Tautoko i te Tumu Whakarae me te Poari

Full‑time, permanent | Wellington

He aha tēnei tūranga | Why this role

This is a high‑trust opportunity for an experienced Senior Executive Assistant to partner closely with a Chief Executive and work alongside the Board and Board Chair in a values‑led organisation operating in the health sector.

This is a pivotal role at the centre of a fast‑moving executive office and will suit someone who brings calm, sound judgement and strong organisational skills to complex and competing priorities. You’ll be trusted to work with discretion, anticipate needs, and provide steady, reliable support that enables others to do their best work.

The organisation’s focus on quality, integrity and impact underpins everything it does. Te Tiriti o Waitangi and health equity are central to how it operates, shaping both its purpose and the way it works with others across the health system.

You’ll work in close partnership with a supportive and approachable Chief Executive who values strong relationships, clear communication and trust. You’ll also be part of a small, committed team where collaboration, mutual support and shared purpose are genuinely lived day‑to‑day.

This is a role where your contribution is visible and valued, and where your work directly supports effective leadership, thoughtful decision‑making and positive outcomes for communities.

Te whai wāhitanga | The opportunity

This is a full‑time, permanent role based in Wellington, with flexible working arrangements available.

You’ll provide trusted executive support to the Chief Executive and play an important role in ensuring Board processes are well organised, well prepared and supported with high‑quality coordination and administration, helping meetings, decisions and relationships run smoothly and effectively.

Ngā mahi matua | What you’ll do

Provide high‑level executive assistance to the Chief Executive

Support Board and sub‑committee meetings, including coordination and accurate minute‑taking

Manage complex diaries and inboxes with strong forward planning and prioritisation

Coordinate correspondence, briefings and meeting requests

Prepare agendas, papers and communications for internal and external meetings

Arrange travel and manage expenses and reconciliations

Build trusted relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders

Contribute to improving administrative processes, systems and ways of working

Ngā pūkenga me te wheako | What we’re looking for

We’re keen to hear from experienced Executive Assistants who have supported a Chief Executive and who also bring experience working with a Board Chair and/or Board in the same or a closely related role.

This experience is important given the seniority, trust and visibility of the position, and the close working relationships involved. Candidates who have operated comfortably across both executive and Board environments. Balancing priorities, supporting effective meetings and enabling good decision‑making, will be particularly well placed to succeed.

You’ll also bring:

• Advanced diary and inbox management skills with excellent organisation and prioritisation
• Strong written and verbal communication, including drafting agendas, briefings and correspondence
• Proven meeting management and minute‑taking capability at Board and sub‑committee level
• High levels of discretion, integrity and sound judgement
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and building effective working relationships
• Strong Microsoft Office capability and comfort learning new systems (board portals an advantage)
• A genuine understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to cultural safety and equity in the workplace

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Please apply now with your CV and covering letter. We will be reviewing applications as we receive them.

If you would like to have a kōrero about this opportunity, or would like a copy of the position description, please contact Maria Lyons at Niche Recruitment: maria.lyons@nicherecruitment.co.nz or 021 403 855.