Executive Assistant

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTIONS:

The Executive Assistant serves as a trusted strategic and administrative partner to the Vice President & Chief Communications Officer (VP & CCO), providing comprehensive executive support that advances the priorities of the Office of University Communications (OUC) and the University. This highly visible position requires exceptional judgment, discretion, professionalism, and organizational expertise to manage executive operations in a fast-paced, complex environment. The Executive Assistant is responsible for coordinating the VP & CCO's daily operations, managing executive communications, facilitating special projects, supporting budget and administrative processes, and serving as a key liaison with internal and external stakeholders. The incumbent ensures seamless coordination of priorities, maintains efficient workflow management, and supports executive decision-making through research, analysis, and preparation of high-quality materials. The successful candidate must possess strong communication skills, outstanding attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:

None.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

The Executive Assistant interacts regularly with University leadership, including, executive officers, deans, faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, government officials, media representatives, vendors, and community partners. This position serves as a key point of contact for the Office of University Communications and requires diplomacy, sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to effectively represent the Office and the University in all interactions.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Executive and Administrative Support

• Manage and coordinate the VP & CCO's complex calendar, scheduling priorities, meetings, appointments, and special events.
• Serve as the primary administrative liaison for the VP & CCO, ensuring timely follow-up on requests, correspondence, and action items in support of the Office of the University president, Cabinet, academic leadership and OUC office wide priorities.
• Coordinate internal and external communications on behalf of the VP & CCO, including drafting correspondence, memoranda, reports, briefing materials, presentations, and meeting summaries.
• Screen, prioritize, and manage incoming communications and requests, exercising sound judgment in determining appropriate responses and escalation.
• Prepare executive briefing materials, agendas, background information, and presentations for meetings, events, and speaking engagements.
• Maintain confidential files, records, and sensitive information in accordance with University policies and professional standards.

Project and Operations Management

• Support strategic initiatives and special projects led by the VP & CCO by coordinating timelines, deliverables, meetings, and stakeholder engagement.
• Monitor project progress and ensure timely completion of assignments and follow-up actions.
• Assist in gathering, analyzing, and organizing information to sup