Executive Assistant

Anstar Ltd; Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing speciality chemicals distributor based in Leeds is looking for an experienced Executive Assistant to support the leadership team. This role involves managing calendars, assisting with HR and recruitment, and providing operational support. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, tech-savvy, and possess excellent communication skills. A competitive salary of £30-40K+ plus bonuses and benefits is offered, with a hybrid working model.

Benefits

Performance-based bonus

Health insurance

Pension contributions

Car allowance

Qualifications

• Strong organisation and time management abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Enthusiastic, open-minded, and eager to learn.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive support to the Managing Director and Head of Finance.
• Manage complex calendars and coordinate meetings.
• Assist with recruitment and employee onboarding.

Skills

Qualitative problem-solving

Quantitative problem-solving

Verbal communication

Written communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Technology proficiency

Proactive attitude

Education

Degree from a reputable university

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint)

Gen AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT)

Job description

Executive Assistant

Salary: £30-40K+ (negotiable, dependent on experience) with performance-based bonus, health insurance, pension contributions, car allowance etc.

Location: Hybrid - 4 days in Leeds office

About Anstar: Founded in 2018, Anstar is a dynamic, rapidly growing startup speciality chemicals distributor headquartered in Leeds, UK. With deep cultural and commercial expertise, we serve as a trusted bridge between Eastern manufacturers and global markets. We have quickly established ourselves as leaders in the UV-curing sector, achieving significant market share in Photoinitiators. Our agile, lean structure prioritises transparency, openness, and a customer-first approach, driven by ambitious, high-potential individuals.

Highlights:

• We are committed to sustainable business practices, including the supply of bio-sourced raw materials, aiming for long-term success while minimising environmental impact
• Technical excellence is a priority; all our sales personnel possess a strong technical (chemistry) background, enabling us to offer a full-breadth service
• We embrace a 'Technology First' approach, utilising cutting-edge software and automation to drive efficiency and scalable growth

The Opportunity

As Anstar expands, we are looking for a capable and driven Executive Assistant to support our leadership team and help shape the company’s future. This is a rare chance to join a fast-growing, entrepreneurial business where your work will have a direct and visible impact. You will act as the right hand to the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations, keeping them organised, informed, and focused on key priorities. At the same time, you will look after recruitment and HR, building the team that will take Anstar to its next stage of growth.

This is not a typical assistant role: you’ll be the operational core of the business, keeping things moving, anticipating needs before they arise and turning plans into action, all while growing your career as the company grows.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Executive assistant to both the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations, acting as their first point of contact
• Provide comprehensive executive support, managing both professional and selective personal assistance (booking personal appointments, assisting with personal projects, hobbies and errands)
• Manage complex calendars over multiple time zones, schedule and coordinate meetings
• Keep the team on top of important tasks and deadlines
• Handle all travel logistics and itineraries
• Assist with expense tracking and accounts payable
• Maintain and organise files, presentations and correspondence for fast retrieval
• Maintain office welfare, organise events and socials

Recruitment & HR

• Assist with recruitment and interview coordination
• Oversee new employee onboarding, including induction planning, training coordination, and system access setup
• Manage basic day‑to‑day HR operations (holiday requests, absence tracking, employee records, policy compliance)
• Take care of day‑to‑day office operations, including managing supplies, equipment and facilities

Essential requirements for the role:

• Highly personable, with strong qualitative and quantitative problem‑solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organisation, time management abilities, with excellent attention to detail
• Enthusiastic, open‑minded and very willing to learn
• Tech savvy – highly proficient in working with technology (laptops, phones, etc.), Microsoft software (Windows, Excel, PowerPoint etc.) and Gen AI (e.g., ChatGPT)
• Self‑motivated and proactive in anticipating needs
• Committed to going above and beyond expectations
• Able to work independently under remote management
• A degree from a reputable and academic university
• Interest or previous experience in the chemicals industry is desirable but not essential

Please submit a CV to: [e-mail]

The interview process will consist of an initial phone call, followed by 2 interview rounds.

We very much look forward to hearing from you.

The Anstar Team

Anstar is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Website: www.anstar.com

Offices: Airedale House, 423 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2EW

Founder & Managing Director: Dr Liangyu Hawkes

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Administrative

Industries

• Chemical Manufacturing and Wholesale Chemical and Allied Products