Executive Assistant

ABOUT PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is America's first school and museum of fine arts. Located in center city Philadelphia, PAFA is intimate in scale with a strong sense of community. PAFA’s undergraduate degree offerings include a BFA in Studio Art and a coordinated BFA with the University of Pennsylvania. Graduate programs include an MFA and Low-Residency MFA degree, and a Post-Baccalaureate certificate. PAFA’s museum has an outstanding collection of American art, and the museum actively collects and exhibits contemporary art, including work in new media. Additionally, PAFA is home to the Brodsky Center, a print and papermaking center focused on the creation of innovative editions by contemporary artists.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Because we were the nation’s first art museum and art school, we believe PAFA has a moral obligation to ensure that every member of our community can study and work in an environment where they feel a sense of belonging. We have the additional obligation of ensuring that our community reflects that rich tapestry of beauty and diversity that surrounds our world. We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the entire arts, cultural and educational sector, and to maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all. PAFA is committed to maintaining an inclusive learning environment, and a diverse community of students, faculty and staff.

PAFA is an equal opportunity employer. Women and diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to work in our pluralistic community.

THIS POSITION WILL BE AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 1, 2024.

The Executive Assistant to the President & CEO is responsible for providing comprehensive support to the President & CEO, serving as a liaison to the Board of Trustees, and senior staff. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Executive Assistant provides executive support in a one-on-one working relationship. The Executive Assistant serves as the primary point of contact for internal and external constituencies on all matters pertaining to the Office of the President.

This dynamic position requires the ability to anticipate needs, think critically, and offer solutions to problems with a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. The Executive Assistant must have the ability to work independently on tasks and projects, from conception to completion, and thrive in a multi-faceted role which requires the ability to handle a wide variety of activities and confidential matters with discretion.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide sophisticated calendar management for the President & CEO. Prioritize inquiries and requests while troubleshooting conflicts; make judgements and recommendations to ensure smooth day-to-day engagements.
• Complete a broad variety of administrative tasks that facilitate the President & CEO’s ability to effectively lead the organization, including: assisting with special projects; designing and producing complex documents, reports, and presentations; collecting and preparing information for meetings with staff and outside parties; composing and preparing correspondence; maintaining contact lists; making travel arrangements; and completing expense and mileage reports.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external constituencies on all matters pertaining to the President & CEO, including those of a highly confidential or critical nature. Researches and prioritizes before determining the appropriate course of action, referral, or response, exercising judgement to reflect President & CEO’s style and organization policy.
• Communicates directly, and on behalf of the President, and responds to emails/texts/phone calls outside normal business hours, as needed.
• Act as a liaison and provide support to the Board of Trustees. Arrange and handle all logistics for Board meetings and events: schedule meetings; draft agendas; develop, compile, and distribute presentation materials; and record meeting minutes on behalf of Board officers. Adhere to compliance with applicable rules and regulations set in bylaws regarding Board matters.
• Work closely with the President & CEO to keep them well informed of upcoming commitments and responsibilities, following up appropriately. Serve as a monitor creating a win-win situations for direct access to the President’s time and office. Conserve the President's time by reading, researching, collecting and analyzing information as needed, in advance.
• Coordinate all senior staff team meetings and retreats and assist with other meetings and events as needed.
• Provide "gatekeeper" and "gateway" role, providing a bridge for smooth communication between the President and team, demonstrating leadership to maintain credibility, trust, and support with the senior staff. Complete projects by assigning work to appropriate staff, including the senior staff, on behalf of the President & CEO.
• Work with the senior staff to coordinate the President & CEO’s outreach activities. Follow up on contacts made by the President & CEO to cultivate ongoing relationships.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality in relationships with all Board members. Comply with administrative rules set in bylaws regarding the Board and Board committee matters.
• Ad hoc duties as required.