Executive Assistant to Head of Research

Role Summary

Executive Assistant to the Head of Research. Provides high-level administrative support and coordination to the research leadership team, managing communication, confidential information, and prioritizing multiple activities to ensure smooth department operation. Collaborates with administrative and operations staff to coordinate large site-level activities and supports integration of the department into the business structure. Requires professionalism, discretion, and ability to multi-task; experience in projects or event coordination in biotechnology/pharmaceuticals and supporting executive/C-suite is preferred. Onsite presence at the Cambridge office is required up to three times per week.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain a strong working relationship with the Head of Research and the leadership team.
• Provide comprehensive administrative support, including calendar management, meeting coordination, and travel arrangements.
• Proactively address complex issues, make responsible decisions, and accomplish tasks independently.
• Collaborate with administrative and operations staff, offering support and maintaining effective communication.
• Maintain a working knowledge of relevant company policies and procedures.
• Assist in preparing business and operating review materials for internal and external meetings.
• Manage group document and knowledge repositories, ensuring efficient workflow.
• Support large-scale meetings with logistics coordination and other related activities.
• Act as a central point of contact for communication management, handling emails and phone calls.
• Prepare meeting agendas, track follow-up items, and coordinate travel arrangements.
• Assist in tracking the progress of research projects and ensure deadlines are met.
• Organize and maintain files and databases, ensuring confidentiality and easy access to information.
• Handle confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Foster positive relationships with colleagues and external partners.

Qualifications

• Required: Associate’s degree; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 7+ years of administrative experience supporting executive-level teams, ideally in the life sciences industry.
• Ability to deliver in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail and minimal supervision.
• Sound judgment, strategic and critical thinking for proactive problem-solving.
• High degree of maturity, discretion, and integrity in handling sensitive information.
• Team-oriented and collaborative with a strong work ethic.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and writing skills with strong emotional intelligence.
• Exceptional organizational skills and resourcefulness.
• Strong business acumen and ability to learn quickly.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; proficiency in SharePoint preferred.

Skills

• Proactive, agile, and organized with the ability to maintain composure under pressure.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with senior leaders and stakeholders.
• Organization, initiative, sound judgment, and willingness to take on additional responsibilities.

Education

• Associate’s degree required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Onsite presence at the Cambridge office up to three times per week.