Executive Assistant to the Dean (f/m/d)

You will work directly with the Dean on a small number of WHU’s most important strategic priorities. These assignments will evolve as the school’s needs change, typically giving you the opportunity to engage deeply with a new strategic topic every six to twelve months.
You will help turn complex and initially ambiguous questions into structured analysis, clear recommendations and compelling executive-level presentations. You will work closely with the Dean to understand the objective, institutional context and intended audience while contributing your own judgment, ideas and constructive challenge.

You will independently drive analysis and follow-up, develop materials for decisions and communication, and prepare and attend selected meetings. You will be expected to take early ideas or open questions, give them structure and advance them in close exchange with the Dean. The role may also include supporting selected internal committees and decision-making processes, including preparing meetings, documenting outcomes and coordinating follow-up.

An initial priority will be to help design WHU’s future approach to fundraising, working closely with the Dean and the relevant departments and colleagues involved in fundraising and donor relations. This will involve developing the underlying strategy and operating model, drawing on existing expertise and experience, rather than managing fundraising activities or donor relationships.

This position is initially a one-year fixed-term contract with the potential to become extended or permanent.

• Several years of experience in strategy consulting or a similarly demanding analytical and project-based environment
• Exceptional analytical ability and the capacity to understand unfamiliar topics quickly
• Strong structured problem-solving skills and confidence working with ambiguity
• Outstanding PowerPoint skills, including the ability to develop the storyline and communicate complex ideas clearly – not simply format slides
• Ability to quickly understand organizational structures, processes, and ways of working, and to navigate them effectively.
• Excellent judgment and the confidence to challenge ideas constructively
• A high degree of intellectual curiosity, ownership and reliability
• Ability to work independently while incorporating the Dean’s perspective and feedback
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with senior stakeholders
• Discretion and sound judgment when handling sensitive institutional matters
• Excellent written and spoken English; German skills are desirable

What makes this role distinctive
This position offers unusually close exposure to the strategic leadership of a leading business school. You will work directly with the Dean, contribute to decisions across changing strategic topics, and see your analysis and ideas translated into institutional action.
The role is particularly suited to someone (f/m/d) who has developed strong analytical and presentation skills in consulting and is now looking for greater proximity to decision-making, broader ownership and the opportunity to help shape an institution over time.

• A diverse and international working environment
• An open-minded, supportive, and motivated team
• Opportunities to actively contribute to the school’s development
• Flat hierarchies and fast decision-making processes
• Attractive skill development and training offerings
• Flexible working time models, including home office option
• Exclusive company-sponsored social benefits
• Ecofriendly mobility offers (e.g., JobTicket, JobRad, e-mobility)
• Various fitness and health activities

WHU is an equal opportunity employer and thus welcomes applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds. We believe in the benefits of diversity and therefore foster an international, inclusive, and inspiring working environment.

For questions please contact:

Kerstin Nicolai
Personal Assistant to the Dean
email: kerstin.nicolai@whu.edu