HR Assistant Private Secretary

September 24, 2026

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The Role

We’re looking for a highly organised, proactive, and confident individual to join our HR Private Office as Assistant Private Secretary to the Chief People Officer (CPO). This is a fast‑paced and high‑profile role, offering a unique opportunity to work at the centre of Defra’s HR leadership.

You’ll be the key point of coordination for the CPO’s engagements, communications, and briefings ensuring that the right information reaches the right people at the right time. You’ll manage the CPO’s inbox, support internal and external communications, and help shape how the HR function connects with the wider department.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a supportive, inclusive team that values collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement. You’ll gain exposure to senior leadership and play a key role in shaping how HR delivers for Defra’s people.

Key Responsibilities

Manage the CPO’s inbox and correspondence by proactively monitoring incoming messages, prioritising urgent items, drafting responses where appropriate, and ensuring timely follow-up. Maintain a high standard of accuracy and discretion, often acting as the first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
Coordinate briefings, speaking notes, and meeting packs for senior-level engagements, ensuring all materials are well‑prepared, tailored to the audience, and aligned with strategic messaging. Liaise with relevant teams to gather insights and data, and ensure the CPO is fully equipped for impactful participation.
Support the delivery of the CPO’s communications and engagement across the HR function and outwardly to Defra, including drafting messages, planning engagement activities, and aligning communications with organisational priorities.
Track actions, priorities, and follow‑ups from meetings and engagements, maintaining a clear and dynamic overview of the CPO’s agenda. Ensure progress is monitored, deadlines are met, and blockers are escalated early to maintain momentum on key initiatives.
Build strong relationships across Defra and Civil Service HR, acting as a trusted liaison to facilitate collaboration, share intelligence, and support cross‑cutting work. Use these networks to anticipate needs, gather feedback, and strengthen the CPO’s influence and visibility.
Anticipate issues and flag risks early, using sound judgement and situational awareness to identify emerging challenges. Provide early warnings and options for resolution, helping the Private Office stay agile and responsive in a fast‑paced environment.

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