Executive Secretary

Job Description

The role:

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Executive Secretary to provide exceptional administrative and organisational support to our Regulation and Compliance Director.

This role is integral to the smooth and efficient running of the executive office, ensuring priorities are managed effectively, information flows seamlessly, and key activities are delivered to the highest level of attention to detail.

The Executive Secretary will manage a complex and extremely busy diary, coordinate key communications, prepare high‑quality documentation, and act as a trusted first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.

What you’ll be responsible for:

• Manage complex and dynamic diaries and assist in managing incoming communications/inboxes, proactively identifying priorities, resolving scheduling conflicts, and supporting effective time management for senior leaders.
• Handle and process expenses, invoices and purchase orders with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail using SAP.
• Provide high‑quality administrative support, including preparing correspondence, reports, presentations, and briefing materials.
• Act as the first point of contact for senior leaders, handling enquiries with discretion, professionalism, and sound judgement.
• Coordinate meetings and events, agendas, supporting documents, and follow‑up actions.
• Maintain and update confidential files, records, and information management systems in line with organisational requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to support the smooth operation of the executive office.
• Support the preparation of board‑level papers, reports, and governance documentation.
• Anticipate the needs of senior leaders by forward‑planning and preparing information to support decision‑making.
• Handle sensitive and confidential information with the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.

What we’re looking for:

• Significant experience in an Executive Secretary, PA, or senior administrative support role.
• Strong organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Experience with complex diary management
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including drafting professional correspondence and reports.
• Proven ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively at all levels across an organisation.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, use initiative, and anticipate needs.
• Knowledge of corporate governance processes and experience preparing board‑level documentation.
• Experience working in a fast‑paced, complex environment.

What we offer:

• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after four years, plus 8 bank holidays
• Competitive pension with up to 14% employer contribution (21% combined) and life cover
• Up to 7.5% performance‑related bonus
• Comprehensive company‑funded healthcare plan
• A strong commitment to flexible and hybrid working

About United Utilities:

United Utilities proudly serves the North West, delivering high‑quality water and wastewater services that support healthier communities, a stronger economy and a greener environment.

We’re ranked #11 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers, and we’re serious about inclusion, wellbeing and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Our people are empowered to grow, innovate and make a meaningful difference — not just for our customers, but for the communities we serve.