What should I write in the location field?

Always name both the city and canton (e.g. 'Zurich, ZH' or 'Geneva, GE'). Swiss candidates expect this. If the role is remote or split between locations, state that clearly (e.g. 'Primarily Lucerne, LU with 1–2 days/week remote').

How do I set the salary range?

Research comparable roles on salary platforms (Lohn.ch, SalaryExplorer, or industry surveys). Always offer a range (e.g. CHF 65k–75k), not a fixed figure. Specify whether the amount is gross annual salary, and note if a 13th-month bonus is included.

Which language should I require?

State the primary language your company uses (German for most Swiss SMEs, French in Suisse romande, Italian in Ticino). English is increasingly important, but don't assume fluency unless needed. Be clear: 'Fluent in German and English' or 'German essential, English desired'.

Job Description Template: Executive Assistant

This template helps you write a clear Executive Assistant job posting for your Swiss SME. It covers core duties (calendar, meetings, travel), must-have skills (organisation, discretion, fluent German or French), nice-to-haves (multilingual, HR software), and what to offer (salary range in CHF, Pensum percentage, canton/city, benefits). Adapt each section to your company size and needs.

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An Executive Assistant keeps your leadership running smoothly. They manage schedules, prepare meetings, handle travel logistics, and often own internal communication and event coordination. This role requires someone who is proactive, tactful, and comfortable working independently.

Use this template as a starting point. Replace [bracketed placeholders] with your details: company name, location (canton and city), Pensum (typically 80–100%), and salary range. Swiss job postings must include Pensum and location—candidates expect both.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

Describe what this person will do most of the time. Executive Assistants typically split effort between calendar and meeting coordination, business correspondence, travel booking, and general office support.

Be specific about who they support—one executive, a team of founders, or a department. Include any part-time or seasonal intensity (e.g., peak periods before board meetings).

Manage the calendar(s) of [name/role], blocking time for strategic work and coordinating across stakeholders
Prepare agendas, background materials, and minutes for internal and external meetings
Arrange business travel: flights, accommodation, transport, visa support, and expense reporting
Handle confidential correspondence and serve as first point of contact for [executive/team]
Coordinate events, from team lunches to client dinners and investor presentations
Maintain CRM and scheduling systems; manage databases and filing (digital and physical)

Must-Have Requirements

Name skills that are non-negotiable. Executive Assistants need fluency in at least one Swiss official language (German, French, or Italian—state which in your posting). Discretion and organisational ability are universal.

Include years of relevant experience (typically 2–4 years minimum) and any essential software. A valid driving licence is sometimes needed if travel coordination includes personal driver duties.

Fluent in [German/French/Italian] (write the language your business uses); English is a plus
[2–4] years of experience as an Executive Assistant or similar role (office management, HR coordination, or executive-facing support)
Excellent organisation and time-management skills; comfort with competing priorities
Discretion and professional confidentiality when handling sensitive matters
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and email management; familiarity with [Outlook/Google Workspace]
Swiss work permit (EU/EFTA or valid residency status)

Nice-to-Have Requirements & What We Offer

List skills that would strengthen the candidate but aren't essential: additional languages, specific software (HR tools, project management platforms), or industry experience.

Describe compensation and benefits realistically. Always state Pensum (e.g. 80–100%), salary range in CHF (gross, annual), and canton/city. Include pension contributions, holiday days, home-office flexibility, and professional development.

Second or third language (English, Italian, or other languages relevant to your market)
Experience with HR systems, ATS, or CRM tools (e.g. SAP, Salesforce, Personio)
Salary: CHF [X]–[Y]k gross per annum, depending on experience
Pensum: [80–100%] (specify if flexible)
Workplace: [City, Canton]; home-office [X days/week or flexible]
Benefits: [X] days holiday, 13th-month bonus (if applicable), pension contributions per LAMal, professional development budget, [team events/other perks]

Frequently asked questions

What should I write in the location field?: Always name both the city and canton (e.g. 'Zurich, ZH' or 'Geneva, GE'). Swiss candidates expect this. If the role is remote or split between locations, state that clearly (e.g. 'Primarily Lucerne, LU with 1–2 days/week remote').
How do I set the salary range?: Research comparable roles on salary platforms (Lohn.ch, SalaryExplorer, or industry surveys). Always offer a range (e.g. CHF 65k–75k), not a fixed figure. Specify whether the amount is gross annual salary, and note if a 13th-month bonus is included.
Which language should I require?: State the primary language your company uses (German for most Swiss SMEs, French in Suisse romande, Italian in Ticino). English is increasingly important, but don't assume fluency unless needed. Be clear: 'Fluent in German and English' or 'German essential, English desired'.

General information for Swiss employers, not legal advice. Have a lawyer confirm anything with legal consequences.