Executive Assistant – York University – Toronto, ON Freelance

Purpose:
York University’s School of Continuing Studies is the fastest growing School in the country. The School is composed of a dynamic Continuing Professional Education (CPE) unit that develops innovative certificate programs that prepare professionals to thrive in the rapidly changing world of work. It is also home to the award-winning York University English Language Institute (YUELI) – the largest university English Language Institute in Canada.Reporting to the Assistant Vice-President, Continuing Studies (AVP), the Executive Assistant provides efficient, professional and confidential executive support to the AVP and members of the senior team. This includes managing activities that support the AVP’s role inside and outside the university. Duties are broad, varied and often of a confidential nature. Daily activities involve interaction with staff, executive offices, and high-level internal and external contacts and officials, with exposure to confidential information requiring considerable use of initiative, tact, diplomacy, discretion, and excellent judgment. The Executive Assistant assists the AVP with all aspects of administration related to: coordination of meetings and activities of the Senior Management Team, internal and external communications, public relations and speaking engagements, and business development activities.

Education:
University degree, preferably in a business, communications, humanities, or social sciences field.

Experience:
Minimum of 5 years’ related experience providing a full range of executive support to a senior leader or administrator in a complex institutional environment.Experience developing compelling written and visual communications for a wide variety of audiences.

Skills:
Excellent communications, both oral and written. Proven ability to research and write clearly for different audiences and purposes. Excellent proofreading skills. Scrupulous attention to detail. Superior discretion, judgment, tact, diplomacy, creativity and initiative. Strong interpersonal skills. Excellent personal organization, planning and project management skills. Ability to work independently, as well as in a team environment. Ability to effectively meet numerous competing demands and deadlines in a highly complex environment and work effectively under pressure. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Experience and proficiency with all computer applications used in the School (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Visio, e-mail, etc.), including a high skill level with the graphic design and management of engaging and highly visual presentations. Ability to adapt to change and learn new applications. Ability to independently research, assess complex topics or options, and make sound recommendations. Knowledge of Faculty and University protocols and governance in order to prioritize inquiries to the attention of the AVP preferred. Understanding of and belief in the advancement of customer service based on best practices, communication, and collaboration.

Additional Notes:
Office environment. Standard day (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), some evening work may be required. High pressure of volume, with numerous competing time demands. Handling time sensitive materials. Juggling competing priorities on a frequent change basis. During events coordination and during events, may be required to stand for long periods of time and lift and carry event resources such as binders, swag, etc. Occasional travel throughout the university will be required, usually involving pick-up and delivery of critical supplies and correspondence between departments or on behalf of operational units.

Please note: This position requires the candidate to produce a verification of degree(s), credential(s) or equivalencies from accredited institutions and/or international equivalents at the time of interview

• Compensation:

York implemented a revised CPM Compensation Framework in 2019. The Framework is a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Merit Incentive Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment and depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a performance lump sum Merit Incentive Award.Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York’s CPM Compensation Program.