About this opportunity
The Executive Secretary role at this organization handles the daily administrative engine that keeps leadership running smoothly. Based in Addis Ababa, this position supports senior management with scheduling, correspondence, meeting coordination, and document management. It is a hands-on role for someone who thrives on organization and discretion. Addis Ababa is Ethiopia's capital and diplomatic hub, home to the African Union headquarters and numerous international organizations. The city sits at an elevation of about 2,355 meters, giving it a mild climate year-round with average highs around 20-25°C. The cost of living is moderate compared to many African capitals, though inflation has pushed up prices for housing and imported goods in recent years. Work culture in Ethiopian offices tends to be formal, with respect for hierarchy and punctuality valued. Amharic is the working language for most local operations, though English is widely used in professional settings, especially in organizations with international ties. This role suits someone with strong secretarial training or equivalent experience, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple priorities without dropping details. It is a career track that can lead to office management, executive assistance at higher levels, or administrative leadership within larger organizations.
Responsibilities
- Manage the executive's calendar, scheduling appointments, meetings, and travel arrangements
- Prepare and distribute correspondence, memos, letters, and reports
- Screen and direct phone calls, emails, and visitors to the appropriate staff
- Organize meetings, including preparing agendas, booking venues, and taking minutes
- Maintain confidential files and records, ensuring documents are filed accurately and retrievable
- Draft and proofread documents, presentations, and reports for senior management
- Coordinate travel logistics, including flights, accommodation, and itineraries
- Handle routine inquiries and follow up on action items from meetings
- Manage office supplies and liaise with vendors or service providers as needed
- Support the preparation of board papers, reports, and other formal documentation
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
- Health insurance coverage
- Paid annual leave and public holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and training
Requirements & Qualifications
- Diploma or degree in secretarial science, office management, business administration, or a related field
- At least 3-5 years of experience in an executive secretarial or administrative support role
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; Amharic proficiency is an advantage
- Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks
- Typing speed of at least 40-50 words per minute with accuracy
- Experience taking minutes and preparing official correspondence
- Knowledge of office equipment, including printers, scanners, and phone systems
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
- Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your background matches the responsibilities and requirements listed above.
- Click the Apply button below to submit your application.
Ready to start your application?
Submit your materials before the official deadline.
Verify all official guidelines and eligibility criteria directly with the host institution before submitting. Prepare your transcript evaluation, referee letters, and motivational statement early to avoid deadline bottleneck delays.
Official Application Strategy & Recommended Tools
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in to 's strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.
