What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Assistant position at Dillard University?
Position Overview
An Executive Assistant (EA) to a College President is a high-level administrative professional who manages the day-to-day operations of the President's Office. This role acts as a primary liaison between the President and key stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, students, donors, and government officials.
Core Responsibilities
• Executive Support & Calendaring: Manages a complex, high-volume calendar of meetings, social engagements, and university functions. They act as a "gatekeeper," prioritizing requests to ensure the President's time is focused on institutional priorities.
• Board Liaison: Serves as the recording secretary for the Board of Trustees, preparing agendas, tracking minutes, and ensuring compliance with open meeting laws and bylaws.
• Communications: Drafts and edits high-stakes correspondence, speeches, briefing materials, and reports. They often handle sensitive inquiries from the media, legislators, and the public on behalf of the President.
• Fiscal Management: Oversees the President's Office budget, manages travel expenses, and monitors state or foundation funds. They may also handle complex travel logistics for the President and official visitors.
• Event & Project Management: Coordinates large-scale university events such as commencements, retreats, and donor receptions. They also lead special projects that may impact university-wide operations.
Key Skills and Qualifications
• Education: Most institutions require a Bachelor's degree. Some may accept an
Associate’s degree combined with extensive experience.
• Experience: Typically requires 5–10 years of professional administrative experience, with at least 3–5 years supporting C-suite or senior executives.
• Discretion & Confidentiality: Absolute discretion is required when handling sensitive legal, personnel, and institutional matters.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Google
Workspace are essential. Familiarity with higher-education ERP systems (like Banner or Colleague) is often preferred.