Job Summary

The Department of Agricultural Sciences Education and Communication is seeking an Associate Executive Assistant who will provide a wide range of administrative support to the Department Head. In this role, you will maximize the effectiveness of department operational processes and communications, serve as a liaison with multiple contacts internal and external to the University and facilitate communication, plan events, draft and edit various documents, schedule meetings and manage executive's calendar. In addition, you will coordinate special projects involving independent research and work with all levels of internal management and staff.

What You'll Be Doing: 

• Conserving Department Head's time by reading, researching, and routing correspondence
• Maintaining executive’s calendars, scheduling complex meetings, preparing agendas, arranging travel, and ensuring support materials are prepared and available
• Exercising discretion and independent judgment to collect and analyze information requests and identify trends
• Responding to non-routine inquiries and issues from internal and external sources
• Developing, implementing, and maintaining/improving processes related to administrative operations to ensure compliance with University policies and procedures
• Coordinating the logistics of various programs, projects, workshops, events, and presentations
• Monitoring operating budget and maintaining financial records for administrative support operations
• Updating and maintaining databases, websites, and mailing lists
• May mentor and train lower level support staff

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Business Administration, Management, or a related field
• 1 year of experience in a senior or lead administrative support role or equivalent experience
• In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. (Associate's + 3 years of experience; HS/GED + 5 years of experience)
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to handle frequent interruptions, balance multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality
• Strong organizational and time management skills and attention to detail
• Computer and related software skills to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet, etc.
• Skilled in collaborating and communicating to build relationships with individuals at all levels within and external to the university to support department needs
• Skilled in interpreting policies and procedures to proactively resolve issues
• Ability to identify problems, generate ideas for improvement, and implement or recommend solutions
• Ability to use discretion and independent judgment to make sound decisions balancing facts, priorities, and possible outcomes
• Ability to use discretion regarding when to involve the senior leader or Executive, when to resolve issues independently, or when to engage others

What We'd Like You to Know:

• Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A Background Check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period