Executive Assistant (Contractor)

Elba Hope Foundation•New York, NY

39d•Remote

About The Position

The Elba Hope Foundation (EHF) is seeking a highly organized, emotionally intelligent, and proactive Executive Assistant to support our Executive Director. This is a highly administrative, part-time, and contractor role for someone who thrives on creating structure, owning communication, scheduling, and logistics. The ideal candidate can manage complex calendars, sift through an email inbox with precision, support special projects (including research), and keep things moving in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. This position is primarily remote, though candidates based in NYC or the East Coast are strongly preferred for in-person meetings with the Executive Director in NYC.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in operations, administration, or a related role.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Emotionally intelligent, kind, and grounded
Able to handle ambiguity, change, and direct feedback without becoming overwhelmed
Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational and communication skills
Strong technological proficiency (Google Workspace, Zoom, Asana, etc.)
Comfortable working behind the scenes and taking ownership of logistics
Proactive with a “no task too small” attitude and a solutions mindset
Demonstrated ability to act as a gatekeeper—diplomatic, assertive, and comfortable saying no or redirecting requests to protect executive time.
Exercises sound judgment and maintains discretion when handling sensitive information or high-stakes communication.
Comfortable working remotely with strong time management skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience in nonprofit, startup, or mission-driven organizations is a plus.
Candidates based in NYC or the East Coast are strongly preferred for in-person meetings with the Executive Director in NYC.
Candidates who bring a deep contextual understanding of Africa and a strong alignment with our mission and values. This may come through lived experience, long-term professional engagement, or meaningful personal connection to the regions and communities we serve.
Applicants who demonstrate humility, accountability, and a clear commitment to working in partnership with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Coordinate internal and external meetings across time zones with speed and accuracy. Resolve conflicts and ensure adequate prep time.
Manage documents, filing systems, and notes; track tasks and deliverables; prepare agendas and coordinate logistics.
Draft professional communications, organize folders, and ensure materials are ready in advance of meetings and events.
Act as a gatekeeper to protect the Executive Director’s time and energy. Use sound judgment and clear communication to say no or reprioritize requests as needed, always with professionalism, discretion, and kindness.
Record and distribute notes, track action items, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Monitor the Executive Director’s email inbox, flag high-priority messages, draft replies, and help manage follow-up.
Support research projects with summaries, background briefs, or comparative analysis as needed.