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  • Full Time
  • UK

Website British Council

An Introduction to the British Council

The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We create friendly knowledge and understanding between the people of the UK and people worldwide. We do this by making a positive contribution to the UK and the countries we work with, changing lives by creating opportunities, building connections, and engendering trust.

For over 80 years, we have been building connections and supporting dialogue between people in the UK and other countries. Our work in arts and culture, education, and the English language helps to create these opportunities. We work with thousands of professionals and policy makers and millions of young people every year through English, arts, and education and society programmes.

We are now seeking a dedicated and proactive Assistant to join our dynamic team. This role is the operational backbone for one of our departments, providing essential administrative and logistical support that enables us to deliver on our strategic objectives. If you are an organized individual with a passion for facilitating international cultural and educational exchange, this position offers a fantastic entry point into a globally respected organization.


Your Mission: Enabling Operational Excellence

As an Assistant at the British Council, your core mission is to ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of your designated team or department. You will be the go-to person for administrative tasks, scheduling, and coordination, allowing your colleagues to focus on delivering high-impact projects and programmes. Your attention to detail, proactive approach, and professional communication will be critical to the team’s overall success and reputation.

You will act as a central hub of information and support, contributing directly to the British Council’s ability to build connections, create opportunities, and foster trust on a global scale.


Key Responsibilities: The Core of Your Role

Your day-to-day work will be diverse, requiring a blend of strong organizational skills, clear communication, and a customer-service orientation. The following list outlines the primary areas of responsibility for this role.

1. Administrative and Logistical Support (40%)

  • Serve as the first point of contact for the department, managing incoming communications via phone and email with professionalism and efficiency.

  • Coordinate complex domestic and international travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, and ground transportation for team members.

  • Process and manage financial documents, including invoices, expense claims, and purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and adherence to financial policies.

  • Maintain an efficient and organized filing system, both digital and physical, for critical documents, reports, and correspondence.

  • Manage inventory of office supplies and equipment, ensuring the team has the resources needed to operate effectively.

2. Meeting and Event Coordination (30%)

  • Provide comprehensive support for meetings, workshops, and events, both virtual and in-person.

  • Schedule meetings, manage calendars, and coordinate the availability of multiple stakeholders across different time zones.

  • Prepare and distribute agendas, presentations, and other necessary materials in advance of meetings.

  • Attend meetings as required to take accurate minutes and record action points, ensuring follow-up on key decisions.

  • Handle all logistical aspects of event planning, from venue booking and catering to coordinating with vendors and participants.

3. Communication and Information Management (20%)

  • Draft, proofread, and format a variety of business documents, including letters, reports, and presentations.

  • Ensure all outgoing communication reflects the professional standards and brand voice of the British Council.

  • Act as a liaison between different internal departments and, on occasion, with external partners.

  • Manage sensitive information with the highest degree of discretion and confidentiality.

4. Team and Project Support (10%)

  • Provide direct administrative support to managers and senior staff within the department.

  • Assist with specific project-based work, including data collection, research, and preparing project update reports.

  • Embody a collaborative spirit, proactively supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive and inclusive team environment.


Who You Are: The Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a candidate who is not only skilled but also aligns with the values and mission of the British Council. The ideal candidate will see themselves in the following description:

You are a meticulous organizer and a proactive problem-solver.

  • You have a natural talent for organization and can prioritize a varied workload effectively, meeting deadlines without compromising on quality.

  • You are resourceful and take the initiative to solve problems before they escalate, anticipating the needs of the team.

  • You have an impeccable eye for detail, ensuring that all work is completed to a high standard of accuracy.

You are an excellent communicator and a relationship-builder.

  • You possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to interact confidently and professionally with people at all levels.

  • You are a supportive team player who builds trust and fosters a cooperative work environment.

  • You provide exceptional customer service, whether dealing with colleagues internally or partners externally.

You are adaptable and committed to our mission.

  • You are reliable, discreet, and handle confidential information with integrity.

  • You are culturally sensitive and have an interest in the UK’s cultural relations, education, and language.

  • You are eager to learn and develop within a global organization.


Qualifications and Experience

Required Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in an administrative or assistant role, or in a position with significant transferable skills.

  • Strong proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

  • Excellent command of written and spoken English.

  • Demonstrable ability to organize, prioritize, and manage time effectively.

  • A commitment to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Highly Desired Assets:

  • Previous experience working in an international, cultural, or educational environment.

  • Experience with financial administration, such as processing invoices and expenses.

  • Experience in arranging travel and coordinating events or meetings.

  • Proficiency in an additional language other than English.


What We Offer: A Rewarding Career Package

We believe in investing in our people and offer a comprehensive rewards and benefits package designed to support you both professionally and personally.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive Monthly Salary: We offer a competitive monthly salary that reflects your skills and experience, benchmarked against the market.

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance: Access to a robust health insurance plan to support your physical and mental well-being.

  • Pension Scheme: A generous pension scheme to help you save for your future.

  • Professional Development: Dedicated opportunities for professional development, including training and mentorship, to support your career growth within a global organization.

  • Generous Paid Annual Leave: A substantial allowance for paid annual leave, encouraging you to rest and recharge.

  • A Mission-Driven Culture: The opportunity to be part of a world-renowned organization with a powerful mission, working alongside a diverse and passionate global team.

Assistant British Council London UK

To apply for this job please visit lnkd.in.