Job Description

Executive Assistant and Policy Officer

Central Services

Southampton

20 Hours per week, Permanent

Salary:

31,443 per annum (pro rata for 20 hours per week 16,996 per annum)

About Us

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic Charity and Housing Association. The Society of St James (SSJ) has been working in Hampshire for over 50 years, delivering high impact, person-centred, accommodation and support services to adults and young people experiencing homelessness, substance use and mental health concerns. We believe that every person is of worth and we are prepared to take risks to end homelessness and support the most at risk and socially excluded members of society.

The Impact You'll Make

This is more than an Executive Assistant role--it's a chance to be a trusted partner and operational linchpin. You will ensure the smooth, effective running of the organisation at its highest levels, directly enabling the vital work SSJ delivers to those most in need.

In this role, you will:

Support the Leadership:

Provide comprehensive administrative support to the

Chief Executive (CE)

,

Board of Directors

, and all

Committees

, handling scheduling, preparing agendas, producing accurate minutes, and managing correspondence.

Drive Best Practice:

Manage the critical

policy review process

, ensuring SSJ remains at the forefront of best practice, directly contributing to quality services that improve lives.

Be a Key Communicator:

Act as a central liaison, fostering strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a highly organised and discreet individual who thrives in a fast-paced, high-impact environment and is driven by our core mission of ending homelessness and tackling the root causes of homelessness.

Someone who

thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

and can manage multiple priorities with calm efficiency. A professional who will act as a

trusted confidante

to the Chief Executive, demonstrating

impeccable discretion and confidentiality

. An individual with a passion for our cause and a commitment to upholding the values of SSJ. To be able to work flexibly to meet the needs of the business.

Essential Skills and Qualities

We are looking for candidates who possess:

Exceptional organisational and time management skills

, with a proven ability to manage complex schedules and administrative processes.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

, able to liaise effectively and build strong relationships with a diverse range of people. An

unwavering commitment to maintaining confidentiality

and demonstrating integrity in all matters, especially those concerning the Board and Chief Executive. The ability to

anticipate needs, take ownership of tasks

, and manage the essential policy review process with initiative.

Desirable:

Experience in a similar role within the non-profit or charitable sector, and/or knowledge of homelessness or addiction issues would be advantageous.

What we can offer you

We value and recognise our staff, offering some generous benefits, as well as the satisfaction of helping people at risk:

A competitive annual leave entitlement of 25 days rising to 30 days, plus public holidays Flexible working options Buying additional annual leave Comprehensive induction and training Counselling, financial, personal support and health and wellbeing services via our Employee Assistance Programme Company cycle to work scheme Discounted laptops and computers with Jamie's Computers
To apply, please send your CV & cover letter to explaining why you would be suitable for the position.

SSJ are an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Application closing date: Monday 5

January 2026

Interview date: week commencing 12

January 2026

Due to the high number of expected applicants, we do reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier.

Should you not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: 16,996.00 per year

Expected hours: 20 per week

Benefits:

Cycle to work scheme Employee discount Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person