Executive Assistant

Please carefully read the role description below to verify that you meet the requirements. The apply button can be found at the bottom of this page.
Driven to provide hope & healing.
Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.
About this role
The Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative support to the Managing Director in an extremely dynamic executive environment. As an exceptionally organized individual, the Executive Assistant provides support in scheduling management meetings, taking minutes, organizing travel and fielding questions on behalf of the Managing Director, and acting as a project manager for special projects and events.
Requirements
Each role with Mercy Ships calls for a unique blend of experience, skills, and qualifications. The info below outlines what’s needed to serve effectively in this position—to meet operational standards and to help you thrive as part of the team.
What You Will Contribute
Establish, develop and maintain files, calendars, agendas, meeting documents, minutes, including; internal online information pages, electronic computer files, and original documents, etc
Exemplary written and verbal communication skills; able to read, analyze, and interpret official documents in French and in English
Proven organizational, administrative, and time management skills
Highly competent in management of multiple projects; able to remain on task while other activities are taking place
Take minutes and monitor follow up activities related to Tactical and Operational Management Team Meetings, and other meetings as requested
Handle internal planning and correspondence for Managing Director and Operations Director as needed, communicating appropriately with external contacts, ship management and crew, and other staff in the organization
Ability to live in and contribute to community life, requiring stable and healthy interpersonal skills
Ability to organize and perform tasks with little direction
What You Will Need
Successful completion of Mercy Ships On Boarding program
Minimum one year of Mercy Ships experience or related experience in a multi-cultural, international setting
General understanding of Mercy Ships overall programs and operations to assist with daily management functions
Bachelor’s Degree in related field or two years’ experience as an Executive Assistant
Basic knowledge of French required, fluency preferred. Willing to continually improve language skills and/or attend immersion program as needed
Availability to serve on flexible basis as needed (weekends, evenings, etc.)
About the team
You’ll be part of a Volunteer Team that’s most relevant to your role, working side by side with a diverse community of volunteers using their skills to serve, and supporting daily life on board.
Frequently asked questions.
We are so excited that you are interested in learning more about serving with us. These are the most common questions we receive for this department.
SCAM ALERT: Please be aware of recruitment scams. Mercy Ships will never charge any fees as a part of the recruitment process. For more info click here.
Click here for a list of medical requirements to serve, including required immunizations.
The experience of a lifetime is calling.
More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.
At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.
Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve—and your own.
Faith-Led Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to our mission and values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration.
Beware of Imposters: Confirm All Volunteer Communications
Volunteer opportunities and invitations to serve will always come directly from Mercy Ships’ official volunteer engagement teams. Never provide personal information to anyone without confirming their connection to Mercy Ships.