Technical & Business Administrative Assistant

Purpose of the role:

We are seeking an experienced technical and executive support professional to provide dedicated support to our CEO within a Built Environment Professional Services firm. 

The ideal candidate must be technically savvy, have sound understanding of a professional business environment, must have exceptional organizing, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.  The individual will work closely with the CEO and key stakeholders both internally and externally and must utilise discretion in handling confidential and sensitive information.

Key Responsibilities:

The following key outputs make up the bulk of the role and the successful candidate will exhibit these traits.

1.     Conduct technical research:

• Conduct research and analysis on emerging trends, technologies, and innovations in the engineering field, and provide reports and recommendations to the CEO.

2.     Communication and Collaboration:

• Serve as a liaison between the CEO and her direct reports ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
• Serve as a liaison between the CEO and various stakeholders, including employees, clients, potential business partners, investors, as well as the media.

3.     Administration and project management: 

• Provide administrative support to the CEO, including managing schedules, coordinating travel arrangements, and preparing correspondence as relevant.
• Assist the CEO in overseeing and effectively managing relevant key projects, ensuring timely completion, budget adherence, and adherence to high quality standards.

4.     Innovation and solving problems: 

• As directed by the CEO, troubleshoot technical issues and provide solutions, escalating complex problems to senior leaders in the business as necessary.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and process improvements, proposing new ideas and provide solutions to the CEO.

5.     Document management: 

• Maintain accurate records of technical discussions, presentations, decisions, and actions, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.

6.     Strategic Support and Technical Advisory: 

• Provide high quality technical guidance and advice to the CEO on various engineering projects, initiatives, and strategies.
• Prepare reports and presentations for the CEO on relevant topics as requested.
• Provide strategic support to the CEO, including researching and analysing industry trends, competitors, as well as market opportunities.

Candidate specifications:

1.     Engineering and/or Business Administration or Commerce background: 

• Be in possession of a bachelor's degree in either, engineering, built environment professions, management or business. 

2.     Technical Expertise: 

• Strong technical knowledge and experience in engineering design, development, and implementation or strong understanding of a professional business environment.

3.     Communication and Collaboration Skills: 

• A proven track record of excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with experience in developing presentations and reports of a technical nature and presenting to stakeholders of various backgrounds.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, and executive leadership.

4.     Report writing skills and Tech-savvy skills: 

• The ability to write high quality technical reports.
• Experience in using MS Office Advanced packages as well as other collaboration tools.
• Possess knowledge of packages related to early-stage development of projects.

5.     Problem-Solving skills: 

• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience in troubleshooting complex technical issues.

The following attributes will set you apart from the rest:

1.     Advanced / Post-Graduate Degree:

• Master's degree in business administration, business science, engineering, built environment professions, communications, or a related field.  Alternatively, the candidate must be registered or currently completing such a degree. 

2.     Industry Certifications: 

• Registered as a professional with ECSA, SACPMP or PMP, or certification in business administration, business science or a related field.

3.     Business Acumen:

• Experience in business development, marketing, or finance, with a strong understanding of the built environment industry.

What We Offer: 

Competitive Remuneration:

• A competitive salary range, depending on experience.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, retirement planning as well as great annual leave benefits. 

Opportunities for Growth:

• Professional development opportunities, including training, mentorship, and career advancement.

Collaborative Work Environment:

• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with a team of experienced professionals.