Gates Cambridge is seeking a Programme and Office Assistant to support the selection and administration of our global community.
The Gates Cambridge mission is to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others. We achieve this by selecting outstanding scholars from countries outside the UK and providing them with full-cost scholarships to pursue postgraduate degrees in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.
Scholars join a lifelong global community, with around 250 studying in Cambridge at any one time and more than 1,800 alumni worldwide – a network that continues to grow.
The Gates Cambridge Trust, which was established in 2000 with a generous gift from the Gates Foundation, manages the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and a programme of events and activities for Scholars. The endowment has grown to almost £362 million (2025).
At the Trust, we are a small, friendly and diverse group of colleagues who are dedicated to delivering the Gates Cambridge mission while creating a welcoming and enjoyable working environment.
Purpose of the role
The Programme and Office Assistant provides administrative support to the Gates Cambridge Trust scholarship programme, including the application and selection process, and delivers operational support to applicants, Scholars-Elect and current Scholars. The post also provides general office and administrative support to ensure the effective day-to-day running of the Gates Cambridge Trust office. The Programme and Office Assistant reports to the Sr. Programme Manager and provides support to the Programme Officer.
The Programme and Office Assistant acts as the initial point of contact for prospective applicants and Scholars-Elect, providing a professional service by email, telephone and in person. The role liaises with colleagues across the Collegiate University; supports the Trust and its scholars in accordance with data protection requirements; and provides cover for the Programme Officer during periods of absence.
Main Responsibilities
Application & Selection
- Manage enquiries and shared inboxes, providing clear and timely responses to prospective applicants.
- Support the annual selection process, including coordinating interviews, preparing materials and managing communications with candidates.
- Oversee interview logistics (scheduling, venues, AV, catering and candidate support).
- Issue offer letters and manage responses from successful applicants.
- Coordinate onboarding of new Scholars, including records management, financial information and CRM updates.
- Liaise with internal teams to ensure accurate and timely data sharing and systems set-up.
Events
- Organise and support delivery of key Trust events, including orientation, welcome and graduation activities.
- Assist with major flagship events such as the Annual Lecture and Gates Cambridge Weekend.
- Support post-event evaluation and reporting.
Operations & Administration
- Provide high-quality administrative support across the Trust, including communications, CRM updates and general office coordination.
- Manage calendars, meeting logistics, room bookings and visitor arrangements.
- Maintain accurate records, filing systems and contact databases.
- Support office operations, including supplies, facilities coordination and health & safety checks.
- Liaise with suppliers to ensure cost-effective services and resources.
- Assist with onboarding and offboarding logistics for staff.
General
- Represent the Trust at events, occasionally outside standard working hours.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of policies, procedures and mandatory training requirements.
The Trust actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
We are open to part-time applications.
How to apply
For full details about the role, including how to apply, please see Programme and Office Assistant Candidate Pack.
