Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant to the Managing Director (Full-time, Fixed-term)

Location:  Chancery Lane, London (office-based).

Contract:  6-month fixed-term (with potential to extend depending on business needs and performance)

Starting:  October 2026, no later than 12th October

Salary:  Starting at £40,000 (depending on experience)

Hours:  Full-time, Monday–Friday (35 hour week)

Reports to:  Managing Director

About Zaytoun

Zaytoun is a UK social enterprise established in 2004 to support the resilience of Palestinian communities through fair trade. 100% of our profits are reinvested into advancing this mission.

Our range includes award-winning olive oil, Medjoul dates, za’atar, grains, and a skin care range. We’re a small, collaborative team who care about Palestine, justice and good food.

For more info on the company, please visit https://zaytoun.uk/

The role

We’re looking for an exceptional Executive Assistant to work closely with our Managing Director, providing both high-level administrative and executive support, strategic coordination and thoughtful input into priorities and workflow.

This role is about partnership: you’ll help ensure the MD’s time is focused where it matters most, while keeping projects, meetings, and priorities running smoothly. You’ll balance detail with the bigger picture, acting as a trusted point of connection between the MD, the team, and external partners.

It’s a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference - both to the smooth running of a mission-driven organisation and to the impact Zaytoun delivers.

Executive support

• Manage the MD’s diary, inbox, travel, and meeting logistics
• Draft, proofread and provide input on correspondence, reports and other written materials
• Prepare agendas, take minutes, and follow up on actions arising from meetings

Project tracking & research

• Monitor deadlines and help the MD track progress on priorities
• Conduct research and prepare background notes to support decision-making
• Ensure smooth information flow between the MD, staff, board, and external partners including customers and suppliers

General support

• Act as a filter for incoming communication, drafting or signposting responses and flagging what needs the MD’s attention
• Handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism
• Provide ad hoc support for events, communications, and other projects as needed
• Help the MD develop and formalise internal policies
• Support the MD with the recruitment and hiring process (including advertising roles, shortlisting candidates and arranging interview)

This list is indicative, not exhaustive – we’re a small team and everyone helps where needed.

What you’ll bring

• Proven experience as an EA, PA, or similar role supporting a senior leader
• Outstanding organisational skills, detail-oriented, able to manage competing priorities
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
• Discretion, sound judgement, and the ability to handle sensitive matters
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach; able to anticipate needs
• Confidence working independently while collaborating effectively in a small, dynamic team
• Ease with digital tools and technology, including Microsoft Office Suite and AI - to streamline tasks, research, and communication
• Familiarity with social media platforms, especially Instagram, LinkedIn (ideal but not essential)
• Enthusiasm for our mission

What you’ll get

• A pivotal role working in close partnership with the MD, with exposure to both strategy and operations
• The opportunity to contribute to an award-winning social enterprise with a unique and urgent mission
• A supportive, collaborative workplace where your work has visible impact

How to apply

Please send your CV and a cover note (why this role, why Zaytoun, and your earliest start date) to  [email protected]  with the subject line  Executive Assistant .

We are actively reviewing and interviewing candidates on a rolling basis and may close this posting as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

Eligibility:  Applicants must be resident in, and have the right to work in, the UK.

Equal opportunities:  Zaytoun is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, abilities and experiences.