What does an executive assistant do?
An executive assistant works directly with a CEO, director or another member of an organisation’s senior management team. Their role is considered the interface between internal and external stakeholders and the executive they are supporting, as they decide which messages to pass on and which calls to put through.
Executive assistants ensure the business runs smoothly by providing direct high-end clerical and administrative support. From scheduling meetings and other appointments to managing the paperwork in the office, an executive assistant oversees the entire administrative process to ensure the executive can focus on their tasks without needing to worry about organisational matters.
Executive assistant skills and qualifications
To succeed in the role, a successful executive assistant should have the following skills and aptitudes:
- Highly organised with the ability to prioritise tasks as needed
- Dynamic with advanced problem-solving skills
- A people person with excellent communication skills
- Discretion and ability to keep things confidential
- Good computer skills and ability to write well
- Some business and accounting skills
Executive assistant experience requirements
When hiring an executive assistant, long-standing experience can be beneficial as the role provides support to an organisation’s executive team. Most executive assistants work in more junior clerical or administrative roles first before progressing to the more senior executive assistant role, so they are likely to have a good level of relevant experience already.
However, when considering a less experienced candidate, practical experience through internships or work placements can boost an applicant’s skills and may be something to look out for when hiring an executive assistant.
Executive assistant education and training requirements
There are no formal training or qualification requirements to work as an executive assistant in Australia. However, as an employer, it is advantageous to hire an executive assistant who has completed studies in business administration, accounting or a related field.
When hiring an executive assistant, look for candidates who have completed Vocational Education and Training (VET) such as the Certificate III or IV in Business (Administration), a Certificate IV in Frontline Management or a university degree such as a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Human Resources or Management. Another popular choice is a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration.
Executive assistant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an executive assistant is $81,097 per year. This salary is fairly consistent across all Australian states and territories, with the exception of some higher-paid executive assistant roles being reported in Sydney’s CBD.
Job description samples for similar positions
There are several roles that are similar to an executive assistant. Take a look to see if you need to hire one of these specialists instead of an executive assistant:
Executive assistant job description FAQs
What is the difference between an executive assistant and a personal assistant?
Executive assistants and personal assistants share some similar duties and responsibilities, but there are also some key differences between the two roles.
Personal assistants usually support department heads and other managers who need clerical assistance, while an executive assistant supports executives and higher-ranking management team members. Executive assistants in organisations typically have more responsibility than personal assistants and take on a more visible role. This may include representing the executive at events or in meetings.
There are also personal assistants who support individuals such as actors or other VIPs with their scheduling, especially concerning media appointments, and in their homes. This is a different type of role altogether.
What makes a stand-out executive assistant?
A great executive assistant is a skilled all-rounder with the right blend of technical, business and soft skills. In this role, people skills are as important as the ability to write well and be comfortable working under pressure with little direction. The most successful executive assistants are proactive and resourceful, with good judgement and excellent decision-making skills.
Are lateral entrants suitable for the role of executive assistant?
As no official qualifications are required to work as an executive assistant, there are no official barriers to entry. It’s true that most executive assistants start as secretaries or administrative assistants, but if an applicant from a different background has the right transferable skills from their previous role, they are likely to succeed. Lateral entrants with previous experience in business, sales or marketing, or even in human resources, are definitely worth considering.
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