Executive Assistant

SDS Talent; Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading speciality chemicals distributor based in Leeds is seeking a highly capable Executive Assistant to support their leadership team in a pivotal role. This multifaceted position involves acting as the organizational backbone of the company, managing complex calendars, coordinating meetings, and handling recruitment and HR processes. The ideal candidate will possess strong problem-solving skills, excellent communication, and meticulous attention to detail. This role provides an exciting opportunity for proactive individuals eager to contribute to growth.

Qualifications

• Highly personable with strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Outstanding organization and time management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Act as first point of contact for the leadership team.
• Provide comprehensive professional and personal support.
• Coordinate internal and external meetings and travel logistics.

Skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Excellent written and verbal communication

Outstanding organization and time management

Technically confident with Microsoft tools

Self-motivated and proactive

Education

Degree from a reputable institution

Job description

Our Client

They are a fast-growing speciality chemicals distributor founded in 2018 and headquartered in Leeds, UK. They act as a trusted bridge between Eastern manufacturers and global markets, combining deep cultural understanding with strong commercial expertise.

They have rapidly become a leading player in the UV curing sector, securing significant market share in Photoinitiators. Their lean, agile structure is built on transparency, openness and a customer first mindset – powered by ambitious, high potential people who thrive in a fast-moving environment.

The Role

As they continue to expand, they’re looking for a highly capable Executive Assistant to support their leadership team and play a pivotal role in shaping their next phase of growth.

This is far more than a traditional EA role. You’ll operate as the organisational backbone of the business – ensuring the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations stay focused on what matters most, while also owning recruitment and HR processes that will help build the future team.

Key Responsibilities

Executive Support

• Act as first point of contact for the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations
• Provide comprehensive professional and selective personal support (appointments, personal projects, errands)
• Manage complex calendars across multiple time zones
• Coordinate internal and external meetings
• Keep leadership aligned with key deadlines and priorities
• Arrange all travel logistics and itineraries
• Support expense tracking and accounts payable
• Maintain organised files, presentations and correspondence
• Oversee office welfare and coordinate company events and socials

Recruitment & HR

• Assist with recruitment processes and interview scheduling
• Manage onboarding, including induction planning, training coordination and system access
• Handle day to day HR administration (holiday tracking, absence management, employee records, policy compliance)
• Support general office operations, including supplies, equipment and facilities management

Requirements

Essential

• Highly personable with strong problem-solving skills (both qualitative and quantitative)
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Outstanding organisation and time management, with meticulous attention to detail
• Enthusiastic, open minded and eager to learn
• Technically confident — strong with Microsoft tools and comfortable using GenAI
• Self-motivated, proactive and able to anticipate needs
• Willing to go above and beyond to deliver exceptional support
• Comfortable working independently, including under remote management

Desirable

• Degree from a reputable academic institution
• Interest in or exposure to the chemicals industry (not essential)