Hire the perfect Private PA

Recruiting a Private PA could be the smartest thing you ever do. Crucial to the seamless running of your household or office, a Private PA will clear the way for you to focus on what matters the most. With over 35 years recruiting Private PA’s we know what makes a good one. And we know that each one is as unique as the role we place them in. They must be efficient, discreet and a creative thinker. They will be fantastically organised, love variety, and learning but above all be incredibly bright. We recognise that there is much more to being a Private PA than just admin. The relationship between the principal and a Private PA is what will ensure a long-lasting, successful career.

What does a Private PA do?

A Private PA’s typical duties could include managing a busy diary, booking meetings, lunches, dinners, appointments, events and high-profile appearances. But there might also be travel to organise; flights, accommodation and all the logistics that comes with it, from visas to chauffeur transfers and restaurant bookings.

They can oversee payroll, deal with personal finance and banking, plus work on logistical or administrative tasks concerning other employees. With this in mind, a Private PA can add considerable value for money by negotiating fees on your behalf, cutting costs through their work not to mention the hours of your time that is saved.

If elements of your family life need overseeing – from school administration to medical appointments, travel for family members, buying presents and childcare arrangements – your Private PA can take the reins. The aim is that they will always be one step ahead of you while keeping you informed of all the goings on.

Private PA’s will be able to jump from one job to the next, juggling plates and never complaining. It might be travelling one minute, going on personal shopping expeditions the next or working on art collections, buying vintage cars or dealing with other high priced purchases.

Recruiting a Private PA

We recruit people with very specialist experience in the areas that interest you. Expectations will vary from job to job and we know that each employer will be looking for something slightly different. As a result, we match our candidates to our clients incredibly carefully. While a celebrity might like someone who has worked in TV or media before, our entrepreneurs and business people could prefer a PA with corporate experience.

Our candidates often come from the world’s best universities – Russell Group and Oxbridge. We look for impressive knowledge or experience in the sector they’re applying for, as well as transferable skills that come from previous jobs.

Private PA roles often require incredible flexibility and common sense. Therefore, it suits an individual who can think on their feet, trouble shoot and turn situations around calmly and skilfully. Professionalism is key. Our candidates are switched on and have an analytical way of thinking. We know that loyalty and total discretion are essential, as is a positive, smiley and polite attitude. There is also the expectation to work hard and have somewhat of a thick skin.

Private PA Salary:

Salary ranges from £20,000 – £100,000+.
Browse our current job roles >
If you’re looking to hire a Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, Private PA, Virtual Assistant or other Office Staff please contact one of our recruitment consultants on 020 7468 0400 or email us

This article is written by Jemima Boost

Jemima is a Newcastle University graduate, working as a freelance copywriter and editor. She is also a trained counsellor, working closely with people who suffer from anxiety.

In collaboration with Belinda Lighton

With over 30 years at the helm of Knightsbridge Recruitment, Belinda Lighton brings unusual depth of experience in placing high-performing and talented PAs and EAs across a wide range of industries. Her understanding of the evolving demands of executive support roles allows her to offer strategic insight and practical guidance, drawn from decades of hands-on leadership at one of London’s most respected and longstanding boutique recruitment consultancies specialising in PAs, EAs and office support staff.

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