Redhill School seeks Executive Personal Assistant Application deadline 24 October 2025

Redhill School, a leading independent institution in Johannesburg, is actively seeking a highly skilled and professional Executive Personal Assistant to provide comprehensive support to their Executive Head. This full-time role is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of the Executive Head’s office, managing complex schedules, and acting as a primary liaison for various stakeholders. If you are a proactive, detail-oriented individual with proven experience in supporting senior executives, and are available to apply by Friday, 24 October 2025, Redhill School invites your application.

Detailed list of the vacancy

• Position: Executive Personal Assistant to the Executive Head
• Location: Redhill School, Johannesburg
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Reporting To: Executive Head of Redhill School
• Employer: Redhill School, a leading independent school known for academic excellence and a supportive environment.
• Application Closing Date: Friday, 24 October 2025, at 16h00
• Feedback Date: If you have not heard from the School by 21 November 2025, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
• School’s Right: Redhill School reserves the right not to make an appointment or to appoint someone earlier if a suitable candidate is found.
• Privacy Notice: In line with POPIA, Redhill School will ensure confidentiality of applicants’ information, using it solely for recruitment purposes. Submitting an application implies acceptance of this disclaimer.
• Vacancy Source: You can find the original vacancy details here.

Simple summary of the vacancy

Redhill School is looking for an Executive Personal Assistant to their Executive Head. This isn’t just a regular administrative role; it’s a critical position that involves being the Executive Head’s right hand. You’ll be responsible for managing their very busy diary, ensuring that their time is protected and prioritised effectively. This means you’ll often be the first point of contact for everyone, from internal staff and parents to external partners and even the Board of Trustees, requiring exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

A key part of the job involves drafting and proofreading important documents, preparing for meetings by coordinating agendas and minutes, and staying one step ahead by anticipating the Executive Head’s needs. Discretion is paramount, as you’ll be handling highly confidential information. The role also includes overseeing special projects, organising travel and events, and being flexible enough to manage urgent tasks that might come up outside of standard working hours. The ideal candidate will be highly organised, resourceful, and tech-savvy, with a deep understanding of the school’s culture and operations.

In return, Redhill School offers a competitive salary package, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to be a vital part of the school’s strategic functioning within a dynamic and supportive environment.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare your up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Write a compelling cover letter that highlights your relevant experience and why you are suitable for this role.
• Gather the contact details for three professional references.
• Submit all these documents via email to Mr Joseph Gerassi, the Executive Head of Redhill School.
• Send your application to: [email protected].
• Ensure your application reaches them by 16h00 on Friday, 24 October 2025.

Questions and advice for potential candidates

Here are some common questions a candidate might have, along with advice on how to stand out:

• Q: What is the application deadline?
  A: You need to submit your application by 16h00 on Friday, 24 October 2025. It’s always best to apply well before the deadline.
• Q: When can I expect to hear back about my application?
  A: If you haven’t heard from Redhill School by 21 November 2025, it’s safe to assume your application was unsuccessful for this particular role.
• Q: What should I highlight in my cover letter?
  A: Focus on your proven experience as an Executive PA, showcasing your organisational skills, ability to manage complex diaries, excellent communication, and your discretion. Mention how your attributes align with Redhill School’s values.
• Q: Is prior experience in a school environment necessary?
  A: While not explicitly stated as a requirement, the role mentions the need to “develop an understanding of Redhill School’s culture, processes, and stakeholders.” Highlighting your ability to quickly adapt to new environments and learn operational contexts would be beneficial.
• Q: What technology skills are most important for this role?
  A: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is essential, as are strong skills in calendar management tools and various digital communication platforms. Emphasise your tech-savviness.
• Q: How important is discretion and handling confidential information?
  A: This is extremely important. The job description highlights managing “confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.” Provide examples from your past roles where you’ve handled such matters with integrity.
• Q: Will I be expected to work outside normal office hours?
  A: Yes, flexibility is a requirement, particularly for attending to “urgent matters outside normal office hours when required.” Show your willingness to be flexible when necessary.
• Q: What attributes will make me a preferred candidate?
  A: Redhill School values accuracy, attention to detail, the ability to remain calm under pressure, strong initiative, independent judgment, and a professional, approachable demeanour. Try to provide examples of these in your application.
• Q: How can I demonstrate being proactive and anticipating needs?
  A: In your cover letter or during an interview, share specific instances where you’ve anticipated a senior executive’s needs, provided timely information, or solved problems independently without being asked.
• Q: Beyond this role, where can I explore other opportunities, including teaching jobs?
  A: Keep an eye on school vacancy boards and dedicated job sites. For a wide range of educational roles, including various teaching jobs, you can often find listings on specialised platforms like SchoolClick.
• Q: Should I tailor my CV specifically for this role?
  A: Absolutely. Customise your CV to reflect the key responsibilities and requirements listed, using keywords from the job description to demonstrate a clear fit.

Redhill School details

• Address: Johannesburg, South Africa (specific address not provided in the vacancy, but it is located in Johannesburg)
• Website: https://www.redhill.co.za/