Administrative Assistant II

Description Administrative Assistant II AArete is one-of-a-kind when it comes to consulting firm culture. We're a global, innovative management and technology consulting firm with offices in the U.S., India, and Europe. Our name comes from the Greek word for excellence: "Arete." And excellence is exactly what we strive for. We're celebrating our fourth year as one of Forbes' World's Best Management Consulting Firms - and our success starts with our people. From robust career development planning to competitive life and wellness benefits, AArete's "Culture of Care" takes a holistic approach to the employee experience. AAretians (our team members) are leaders at every level. You are encouraged to unlock your full potential by directly contributing to our mission and prioritizing personal development and fulfillment. The Role This role provides high-level administrative and operational support to the Manager, Office of the CEO, helping ensure smooth day-to-day executive operations through strong organization, attention to detail, and reliable follow-through. The ideal candidate is adaptable, collaborative, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. They bring a proactive mindset and partner closely with the Manager, Office of the CEO to keep workflows moving efficiently, priorities aligned, and tasks progressing with consistency, care, and professionalism. Work You'll Do Executive Support Partner closely with the Manager, Office of the CEO to support daily executive operations in a fast-paced environment Provide comprehensive administrative support to approximately eight Managing Directors and Vice Presidents, collaborating with a team of Executive Assistants to support firm leadership Manage high-volume, complex calendar scheduling, including coordinating across multiple stakeholders, time zones, and shifting priorities Proactively resolve scheduling conflicts and anticipate calendar needs to keep days running smoothly Navigate last-minute changes with flexibility and professionalism while balancing multiple competing priorities Complete delegated tasks with accuracy, urgency, and strong follow-through Prepare, organize, and maintain documents, templates, and records Track tasks, deadlines, and follow-ups to ensure priorities stay on course Support inbox or correspondence management as needed Administration & Coordination Coordinate meeting logistics including agendas, materials, and follow-ups Maintain shared trackers, task lists, and documentation to support team alignment Assist with travel planning, expense tracking, and reimbursements Collaborate with internal teams at the direction of the Manager, Office of the CEO to support scheduling and workflow needs Processes & Workflows Follow established executive support processes while helping keep systems organized and current Ensure recurring tasks are completed consistently and with attention to detail Identify opportunities to improve workflows and administrative efficiency Other duties as assigned Requirements 5+ years of administrative experience supporting senior executives in fast-paced environments Proven experience managing high-volume, complex calendars with multiple stakeholders and shifting priorities Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities Exceptional attention to detail and follow-through Clear, professional written and verbal communication High level of discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment Comfortable receiving direction and feedback, with a collaborative mindset Proficiency with calendar management, email, document creation, Microsoft office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and task management tools Ability to adapt quickly, stay composed under pressure, and handle last-minute changes with confidence Applicants must be based in Chicago, IL, and flexible to work from our Chicago office as needed Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship Preferred Requirements Prior experience at an Administrative Assistant II level Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of relevant experience Experience supporting executive-level meetings and preparing materials Familiarity with travel booking and expense management tools Compensation & Benefits Flexible PTO, monthly half-day refuels, volunteer time off, 10 paid holidays Own Your Day flexible work policy Competitive majority employer-paid benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K Match Generous paid parental leave options Employer-paid Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability Charitable contribution matching program New client commission opportunities and referral bonus program Bike share discount program The estimated base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $85,000. In addition to this base salary, individuals may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. This range is a part of a competitive, total compensation package together with our majority employer-paid benefits and incentive pay for eligible roles. Please note that this range is a guideline, and individual total compensation may vary due to numerous factors, including but not limited to experience level, certifications, and other relevant business considerations. AArete will accept applications until the position is filled. The job posting will be removed once the role is no longer available. We put humans at the center of our work We're a global management and technology consulting firm specializing in strategic profitability improvement, digital transformation, and strategy & change for clients. Our cross-industry solutions are powered by a digital-first mindset, market intelligence, and data-driven approach to deliver purposeful change, actionable insights, and guaranteed results. But what sets us apart is our people. We are guided by our deeply embedded guiding principles: Excellence, Passion, Loyalty to Clients, Stewardship, Family, Community, Sustainability, and Inclusion. And we've been recognized as a top firm to work for by companies like Forbes, Top Workplaces Chicago Tribune, and Consulting Magazine. We've earned a Great Place to Work Certification and been named a World's Best Management Consulting Firm by Forbes, Vault's Top 50 Firms to Work For, Crain's Chicago Business Fast 50, Inc 5000's Fastest Growing Firms, and Consulting Magazine's Fastest Growing Firms. Learn more about our award-winning culture We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #LI-DNI