Executive Assistant

Clarendon Fine Art is the world’s leading gallery group within the modern and contemporary fine art market.

The business was founded by Helen Swaby 30 years ago to tackle the elitism that dominates the world of art and to change the perception that contemporary art was just for the chosen few. It works in partnership with many of the finest contemporary artists from around the world, showcasing award winners and household names such as Christian Hook, Mr Brainwash, Maxim, The Connor Brothers, Dan Pearce, Fabian Perez and Sheree Valentine Daines. It also prides itself on introducing outstanding new emerging talent to a discerning audience of art lovers. In addition, the company offers an exciting portfolio of 20th Century Modern Masters, including L.S. Lowry, Picasso, Miro, Chagall, Dali etc alongside the best contemporary living talents including Banksy and Andy Warhol. Original prices range from a thousand to hundreds of thousands

The Role:

Helen Swaby is as involved in the business today as she was 30 years ago, with her drive, passion and hands on approach she is the driving force to the success of our business.

Due to our continuing success and growth, we have a rare and exciting opportunity for an ambitious and talented individual to join our dynamic, passionate, courageous, and pioneering CEO, Helen Swaby as she leads the world’s largest gallery group.

Helen is looking for someone with the same energy, drive and passion as her to support her both personally and professionally as an Executive Assistant in this exciting, growing and dynamic business space.

You will provide exemplary executive support to Helen Swaby, CEO, whilst reporting to Beth Butterwick, Managing Director, responsible for but not limited to:

• Providing high level management support to the CEO, and wider Leadership team, including:
  • Full diary management inc. meeting scheduling and preparation.
  • Correspondence review and reply inc. post, email and social media.
  • Coordination of travel arrangements and logistics.
  • Personal administrative support inc. life event management.
• Act as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, screening and prioritising communications such as emails, phone calls, and mail.
• Attending meetings on behalf of the CEO / Other Leadership Team members as appropriate.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, including clients, artists, and colleagues.
• Build trusting and effective relationships, anticipating the CEO’s requirements, developing their confidence in you, and demonstrating discretion.
• Acting as a source of advice for the CEO on a range of issues, collating best available information and distilling into succinct, counsel, briefing and other materials.
• Represent the directors professionally and handle inquiries and requests in a timely and courteous manner.
• Handling confidential information with diplomacy and absolute discretion.
• Preparing and editing correspondence, communications, and presentations as well as providing accurate minutes following all meetings.
• Prioritising and managing multiple tasks simultaneously, anticipating needs and proactively addressing them with urgency.
• Be available outside usual office hours for adhoc support and events attendance.
• Be able to travel and work outside UK for adhoc business support inc. the US.

Person Specification

This role will work hand in hand with Helen Swaby and as such requires someone who has previous experience as an Executive Assistant supporting a busy CEO. You will have meticulous attention to detail, be able to work under pressure and manage changing priorities. This role will suit a passionate confident communicator who has a positive can-do attitude. You will also:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience as an Executive Assistant to a CEO.
• Experience in a luxury retail environment would be beneficial.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to take a flexible approach and proactively prioritise workload to ensure deadlines are met.
• Proficient knowledge of MS Outlook, word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Exceptional communication skills both written and verbal.
• Expertise in developing and managing effective working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in working collaboratively with other colleagues and senior stakeholders to deliver on projects.
• Full Drivers Licence and Valid Passport.

Why Choose Us?:

• Hybrid working pattern.
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
• Free onsite parking.
• Contributory employee pension scheme.
• Join the wider company at social events throughout the year.
• We offer a 24/7 helpline for you and your relatives, somebody to talk to, mental health assessments and action plans for short term counselling.
• We offer you benefits and discounts including food, drink, retailers and fun days out!
• Employee discount scheme on our contemporary portfolio of artwork!
• Milestone rewards to celebrate your big life events both inside and outside of work.
• Seasonal ‘thank you’ gifts from the company throughout the year.