Professional Assistant

West Cambridge | Between £32,000 and £37,000 pro-rata | 22.5 hours, part time - permanent | Hybrid

You’re the glue that keeps everything running smoothly – are you ready to make a real impact? Join the vibrant Founders at the University of Cambridge team at Cambridge Enterprise and help the next generation of world-changing entrepreneurs take flight.

Why you will love this role:

Imagine being at the heart of an exciting team that helps drive innovation and support founders at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. In this role, you’ll partner closely with the Managing Director to streamline their day-to-day, solve problems, and keep things on track. From scheduling high-profile meetings to supporting events. You're not just an assistant; you're a strategic partner, working alongside brilliant minds at the forefront of innovation.

It’s a varied role where no two days are the same, offering a real sense of purpose and achievement. And while you're helping others, you'll be developing your own career in a supportive and inspiring environment.

This is a part time role for 22.5 hours a week. We’re open to how this is worked, for example it could be 3 days a week, or spread over 5 days.

Why Founders at the University of Cambridge?

Founders at the University of Cambridge is a new strategic initiative, building on the university's expertise and unparalleled advantages to bring technical and social innovation to life through new business creation via Cambridge Enterprise (the University’s innovation arm); from solving climate change to finding cures to deadly diseases.

Our mission is to empower entrepreneurial minds at the University of Cambridge with expertise, capital and community so they can thrive and have a global impact. We bring together future founders with global entrepreneurial alumni, local experts and peer role-models, alongside funding and deep tech spin-out expertise, to support many more founders to create stronger companies which scale faster and have greater impact.

As we develop, we will also provide extensive support to founders as they take companies forward, through pre-seed investment, intensive mentoring, and programmatic support. We leverage and connect with the complex but powerful Cambridge ecosystem and support founders through action-based programmes to help them build global scalable businesses.

What we're looking for:

You know what’s involved in a role like this because you’ve done it before in a similar high performing organisation.
A master of organisation able to thrive on order and efficiency.
You're proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and have a knack for learning new tools, and curious about using AI.
You can build relationships with ease and have excellent communication skills.
A problem solver who can thrive on challenges and find creative solutions.
You're a collaborative and supportive team member.
You are a proactive thinker: You anticipate needs of the person you’re supporting and take initiative in a way that delights.
A detail-oriented perfectionist: You ensure everything is flawless.
You’re someone who can be flexible and adaptable with a flair for adapting to shifting priorities and changing demands.

Nice to have:

Experience in planning and coordinating events.
Familiarity with project management tools and software.
Knowledge of office management systems and procedures.
A flexible mindset to thrive in dynamic work environments.

You can view the full job description here

Diversity and equality matter:

These are our ideal requirements, but we know some people are less likely to apply for the role unless they are 100% qualified. At Cambridge Enterprise, we promote a diverse, inclusive and empowering culture, so please apply if you meet most of the job requirements.

If you have any questions about the interview process, or if you need any reasonable adjustments, please don’t hesitate to contact Ian, Gemma, Michelle or Sofia at people@enterprise.cam.ac.uk

Working for Cambridge Enterprise:

Our benefits package is competitive. With 30 days of annual leave (pro rata), a generous University pension, health and lifestyle benefits and a modern office at West Cambridge, you'll thrive in this vibrant academic and innovation community.

Perks at a glance:

18 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
Class-leading Bupa private medical insurance
Hybrid role with genuine flexible working – including work from abroad for up to 30 days a year in most roles
Generous University pension scheme.
A commitment to personal development including LinkedIn learning.
Family-friendly policies (including enhanced parental leave & childcare benefits, fertility leave, and pregnancy loss leave)
Mental health and well-being support including access to free counselling.
Retail and travel discounts.