The Royal Naval Association is seeking a highly capable, emotionally intelligent, and mission-driven Executive Assistant to support the CEO in delivering the strategic and operational priorities of the Association. This is a pivotal role at the heart of a dynamic organisation that champions the welfare, camaraderie, and legacy of the Naval community.
The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of military culture and the values of service, loyalty, and discretion. They will bring exceptional organisational skills, a calm and professional demeanour, and the ability to anticipate needs and respond with agility. This role requires someone who can confidently manage complex schedules, coordinate high-profile events, have exemplary communication skills and serve as a trusted liaison across the team, trustees, members, and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide proactive and comprehensive executive support to the CEO, including diary management, correspondence, travel arrangements, and meeting coordination
- Act as a key point of contact between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders, always maintaining professionalism and confidentiality
- Prepare briefings, reports, and presentations with precision and clarity
- Support the CEO’s engagement with the Board, including scheduling, minute-taking, and follow-up actions
- Liaise closely with the wider team to ensure alignment of priorities and smooth operational flow
- Coordinate events both for fundraising and commemorative purposes.
- Represent the CEO’s office with warmth, tact, and a deep understanding of the RNA’s ethos
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience within a military, charitable, or membership-based organisation
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with impeccable attention to detail
- High emotional intelligence and the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse groups
- Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and respond to changing demands
- Discretion, integrity, and professionalism in handling sensitive information
- Confidence in working autonomously while remaining collaborative and team-oriented.
- Must be comfortable with public speaking and representing the organisation on behalf of the CEO when they are unavailable.
- A genuine connection to the Serving community and a passion for supporting those who serve
- Must be proficient with Microsoft Teams, Excel, and have a strong understanding of database management.
- A current DBS certificate
Why This Role Matters
The Executive Assistant to the CEO plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the Association’s leadership and operations. This is more than an administrative position—it’s a trusted partnership that helps shape the future of the RNA and uphold its motto: Once Navy, Always Navy.
Working Arrangements & Benefits
- Candidates must be able to start work in December 2025
- Hybrid working with compulsory office attendance on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (unless the CEO is absent)
- Hours: 35 per week, Monday to Friday (08:30–16:30)
- Salary: £36,000
- Benefits include:
- Free on-site parking
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- 7% non-contributory pension scheme
Applications:
Please send current CV and cover letter (no longer than 500 words) to give an idea of why you are interested in this role and what makes you a good fit. Send these to ceo@rnassoc.org
Email Sara Field ams@rnassoc.org for any further information you may require regarding this role.
Interviews: Week commencing 24 November
About the RNA:
The Royal Naval Association is the largest Royal Naval membership Association for serving and former serving members of our Naval Forces, and their families, with over 240 branches in the UK and around the globe. Multigenerational, diverse and inclusive, the RNA’s community provides comradeship through the seven Cs: community, connection, companionship, compassion, care, commemoration and celebration. It supports its members through the peaks and troughs of life’s voyage. Once Navy Always Navy.
