Private Secretary to the UK Permanent Representative to the UN

About the role

The UK Mission to the United Nations in New York is recruiting a Private Secretary for the Private Office of the UK Permanent Representative to the UN. As one of two Private Secretaries, you will help the Permanent Representative and Deputy Permanent Representative use their time effectively and prepare them for meetings, decisions and official engagements. The role is full-time, permanent and office-based, with hybrid work only on rare occasions.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor the Private Office inbox and incoming correspondence, assess requests, commission advice and escalate sensitive or urgent issues.
• Manage the Permanent Representative's diary, resolve clashes and ensure engagements match senior leaders' objectives.
• Track requests, decisions, deadlines and follow-up actions so commitments are met.
• Prepare the Permanent Representative and Deputy for meetings by checking timings, logistics and briefing material.
• Coordinate official correspondence, invitations, overseas travel, visits and accommodation with policy teams, drivers, Residences staff and external contacts.
• Support official events and hospitality, including guest lists, seating plans and dietary requirements.
• Maintain contact, financial and administrative records, including travel and entertainment expenditure.
• Provide flexible cover across the Private Office, especially during absences and peak periods such as UN General Assembly High-Level Week.

Required profile

• Experience coordinating competing tasks, appointments, deadlines or requests in a busy environment.
• Strong organisation, accuracy and attention to detail, with ownership of work through to completion.
• Sound judgement, prioritisation and discretion with sensitive information.
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication in English.
• Must be a citizen of the UK, US, Canada, Australia or New Zealand.
• Desirable: diary management, executive support, meeting/travel/event organisation, knowledge of the UN or diplomacy.

Required skills

• Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and Teams, or quick ability to learn new digital systems.

What we offer

• Salary of $68,490 plus a 15% Private Office allowance, paid annually.
• Background checks apply to all selected candidates.
• Support from experienced Private Office colleagues and on-the-job development.