Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a highly capable and experienced Diary Manager and Research Assistant to provide dedicated diary and research support to Julia Prescot CBE in her capacity as a Board Member of Wilton Park and across her wider senior public appointments. The role will also provide support to her Senior Foreign Policy Adviser.

This is a dynamic and fast-paced position requiring exceptional organisational ability, discretion and judgement. The successful candidate will be confident operating at senior levels, managing complex diaries, coordinating across multiple organisations and ensuring that engagement with high-profile stakeholders is handled with precision and professionalism.

The role is offered on an initial six-month basis, with potential for extension or longer-term opportunity.

The Role

This position will be split between supporting Julia Prescot directly and providing support to her Senior Foreign Policy Adviser.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Complex diary management across multiple appointments and organisations
• Coordinating and liaising with senior leaders, their offices and executive teams
• Managing and drafting professional correspondence
• Travel booking (primarily UK with some European travel)
• Supporting the planning and oversight of high-level meetings and events
• Preparing research briefings and background materials
• Maintaining stakeholder contact lists and managing invitation processes

The role requires someone comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, able to anticipate needs and ensure priorities are delivered without constant direction.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a senior-level Executive Assistant or equivalent professional accustomed to supporting high-profile or senior leaders.

You will demonstrate:

• Significant experience managing complex, senior-level diaries
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgement
• Social confidence and sophistication when engaging with senior stakeholders
• Excellent written communication skills, with strong awareness of tone and protocol
• Confidence interacting with senior government officials and board-level contacts
• Strong IT and digital capability (Microsoft Office, calendar systems, remote collaboration tools)
• Educated to degree level or above, with research skills evidenced through academic or professional work
• The ability to manage multiple workstreams calmly and efficiently
• Absolute discretion and integrity

An interest in foreign policy or public affairs is welcome but not essential. Organisational excellence, reliability and professionalism are paramount.

Contract Basis

This role will initially be offered on a freelance basis. The successful candidate will invoice monthly for hours worked at the agreed hourly rate. This arrangement will suit an experienced professional accustomed to working independently and managing their own tax and national insurance obligations. There may be scope for the role to transition to a payroll position in due course, subject to mutual agreement and evolving requirements.

For more details please contact info@hivesupport.co.uk in the first instance.

Closing date: Initial closing date of 22 March 2026, but this may be extended upon review.

Start date: Interviews expected to take place in late March and a candidate appointed as soon as possible.