Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION:

MD

SALARY

:

Circa 37,900 rising to 39,397 per annum / ML1:SB1

ROLE TYPE:

Hybrid

HOURS:

37 per week

LOCATION:

York

Senior Personal Assistant

As part of our Executive Support team at Northern, you'd be right at the heart of keeping our leadership running smoothly. This is a 12 month fixed term role, so we're looking for someone who can bring proven experience and hit the ground running. It's all about making things happen - coordinating diaries, handling priorities, and keeping the wheels turning so our Board Directors can focus on the bigger picture. You'll be the trusted go-to for organisation, communication, and attention to detail, ensuring everything behind the scenes runs seamlessly.

What you'll be doing

Your days will be varied and busy, with plenty of opportunities to take ownership. You'll:



Manage diaries for nominated Board Directors - arranging appointments, travel, and meeting facilities.


Act as the first point of contact for communications - managing and responding to emails, liaising with colleagues, and handling routine matters without referral. Organise meetings and conferences, and make sure files and records are kept in perfect order. Take accurate minutes at meetings, prepare documents, and handle correspondence. Compile and format business reports, pulling out the key information Directors need to know. Support Freedom of Information responses by working closely with relevant departments. Coordinate purchasing requisitions and support specific projects when required.

Some weeks you might be in the York office for a couple of days, out visiting other sites for another, and working from home for the rest. While the balance may change week to week, you'll need to be happy with a mix of travel and home working.

About you

You'll have proven experience as a Personal Assistant - ideally at senior level - and the skills to anticipate needs before they arise. Organisation, discretion, and clear communication are second nature to you. Here's what you'll bring:


Strong written and verbal communication skills. Confidence with Microsoft Office and the ability to pick up new systems quickly. Excellent organisational skills, from minute-taking to managing multiple priorities. A self-motivated approach - you're comfortable working independently and as part of a team. The ability to work under pressure while keeping a sharp eye for detail.

What's in it for you?

At Northern, we don't just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here's a taste of what you can look forward to:

Free Travel:

Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.

Generous Pension Scheme:

We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.

Enhanced Family Benefits:

We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.

Cycle to Work Scheme:

Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.

Exclusive Discounts:

From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.

Employee Assistance Programme:

24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.

Training and Career Development:

We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you're in.

Recognition:

We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That's why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We're more than just a train operator. We're the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we're on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.



Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we're celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.



At Northern, we don't just move people from A to B - we're building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that's something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we'll always offer an interview.



We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.



No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob... there's a place for you here in the railway.