Senior Executive Assistant to Founder / CEO

Mahler Private Staffing • Costa Mesa, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The founder and CEO of a successful, privately held business is seeking an accomplished Senior Executive Assistant to serve as his principal administrative partner. Based in a beautifully appointed office in Costa Mesa, California, the role combines executive support, oversight of administrative colleagues working across locations, and coordination of business, philanthropic, and personal priorities. The opening arises as the CEO’s long-term assistant prepares to transition into another role within the company. It is suited to a career Executive Assistant who values a lasting partnership, takes ownership, and brings proven practices to a well-established executive office. The position is fully onsite, Monday through Friday during standard business hours.

Compensation includes a base salary targeted at $175,000, commensurate with experience, a significant bonus opportunity, benefits, and paid time off. For candidates joining before year-end, a sign-on bonus or buyout of a forfeited year-end bonus may be considered. A start after the first of the year can also be accommodated. In-person interviews are planned for the week of November 16, with a target hiring decision by November 30. All inquiries will be held in confidence.

Requirements

• Proven longevity supporting a CEO, founder, or senior executive, with a record of trusted, long-term partnerships.
• Demonstrated experience leading an administrative team and managing projects independently.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, sound judgment, and discretion.
• A resourceful approach, a strong sense of urgency, and the ability to anticipate needs and manage competing priorities.
• Confidence working with senior executives and professional advisors.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills.
• Bachelor’s degree.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree.
• Experience supporting a high-net-worth principal.
• Experience coordinating private aviation.
• Experience supporting board activities.

Responsibilities

• Manage a complex calendar and competing priorities, ensuring the CEO is prepared for meetings, decisions, and engagements.
• Prepare polished correspondence, executive briefings, presentations, and meeting materials.
• Track decisions and commitments, manage special projects, and ensure timely follow-through.
• Oversee and coordinate the work of other administrative staff, establishing clear responsibilities and consistent standards.
• Coordinate with executives, board members, professional advisors, and household staff.
• Arrange domestic and international travel, including private aviation, ground transportation, and detailed itineraries.
• Anticipate travel needs and implement changes expeditiously when circumstances change.
• Improve office systems and workflows; oversee administrative expenses, vendors, and records.
• Support board meetings, partner meetings, and annual planning cycles.

Benefits

• Significant bonus opportunity.
• Benefits.
• Paid time off.
• A sign-on bonus or buyout of a forfeited year-end bonus may be considered for candidates joining before year-end.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior