Executive Assistant

Company Description

SNV is a mission-driven global development partner working in more than 20 countries across Africa and Asia. Building on 60 years of experience and grounded in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we work on the core themes of gender equality and social inclusion, climate adaptation and mitigation, and strong institutions and effective governance. Together with our team of over 1,600 people, our mission is to strengthen capacities and catalyse partnerships that transform the agri-food, energy, and water systems, which enable sustainable and more equitable lives for all.

Our core values of people-centeredness and respect, equity and equality, and diversity and inclusion, are fundamental to who we are, and what we do. This is reflected in our vision and mission, and strategy, which sets out our aspirations and commitments as our compass towards 2030.

Job Description

SNV is seeking a dynamic professional to become the right-hand of the CEO. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is crucial in supporting the CEO and engaging with the wider Executive Team. The Executive Assistant will ensure optimal executive coordination, timely information flow, effective communication, and efficient internal processes. You will advise the CEO on key strategic matters and contribute to advancing SNV’s influence and partnerships.

Because of your commitment and precise planning, our CEO knows they can rely on you. You are the overall responsible for the CEO’s meetings, travel, and external engagements. You line-manage the Management Assistant to ensure the administrative planning is smooth.

You have an excellent eye for detail, are well-organized, and quick to pick things up. You have excellent written and spoken English skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as a thought partner to the CEO, translating operational and strategic opportunities into clear actions and plans.
• Write key external and internal communications on behalf of the CEO.
• Prepare briefing notes and talking points for meetings and travels.
• Plan, track, and minute bi-weekly Executive Team meetings and quarterly Supervisory Board meetings.
• Maintain action list and coordinate efforts to ensure timely completion.
• Line manage and coordinate with the Management Assistant on CEO meetings, travel arrangements, and other administrative tasks.
• Coordinate select, time-bound strategic initiatives, acting as an interface between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders.
• Provide strategic input and prepare content for planning and reporting processes.
• Serve as the CEO’s coordination point for interactions with key partnerships.
• Track and manage budgets of the CEO office.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Strategic mind with the ability to ensure mission alignment.
• Ability to liaise, steer, and influence across an organization diplomatically.
• Excellent people, coordination, and communication skills.
• Thorough understanding of the international development sector.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and adjust priorities as context changes.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English (Dutch and French are an advantage).
• Integrity and commitment to handling confidential information discreetly.
• Affinity with MS products (Teams, SharePoint, etc.) and sound IT skills.

Additional Information

Working at SNV

SNV offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. We offer a stimulating work environment, opportunities to lead and innovate, and a commitment to growing your skills in a fulfilling and diverse working environment. Our team members benefit from, and contribute to, an internal global network of experts.

SNV strives to be an inclusive employer, thriving on the diversity of its people and does not discriminate on the basis of disability status, religion, ethnic origin, gender and sexual orientation, etc.