Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant job description

An Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative support to senior executives, enabling them to operate efficiently and focus on strategic priorities. This role involves managing schedules, preparing reports, coordinating meetings, and serving as a key liaison between the executive office and internal or external stakeholders. Executive Assistants are expected to handle sensitive information with discretion, demonstrate sound judgment, and maintain a proactive approach in a fast-paced environment.

Executive Assistant duties and responsibilities of the job

The role of an Executive Assistant is vital in ensuring the smooth operation of the executive’s day-to-day responsibilities. A typical Executive Assistant job description includes:

Managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and coordinating appointments

Preparing presentations, reports, and correspondence on behalf of executives

Arranging domestic and international travel, including itineraries, visas, and accommodations

Organising meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action items

Acting as a point of contact between executives, staff, clients, and other stakeholders

Managing confidential documents and sensitive information with the highest level of discretion

Assisting with expense reporting, budget tracking, and invoice processing

Supporting internal and external communications, including drafting emails and briefings

Coordinating executive events, town halls, and team off-sites

Anticipating the needs of executives and taking initiative to support them proactively

Typical Executive Assistant duties

While a degree is not always mandatory, many employers prefer candidates with qualifications in:

Business Administration

Office Administration

Communications

Management

In addition to formal education, employers typically look for:

Proven experience as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant to senior leadership

Exceptional organisational and time management skills

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, calendar tools, and collaboration platforms (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Zoom)

Strong attention to detail and accuracy

Discretion, professionalism, and the ability to handle confidential information

A proactive mindset with the ability to work independently and prioritise competing demands

Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment

Ability to build relationships across all levels of an organisation

Experience supporting C-level executives or working in large, multinational or fast-paced organisations is often highly regarded.

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Salary for Executive Assistant

100000 - 125000

25th percentile

100000

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.

50th percentile

115000

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.

75th percentile

125000

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or superannuation.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

Office Coordinator

75000

80000

85000

Office Manager

85000

100000

110000

Operations Manager (Business Support)

110000

130000

160000

Company Secretary

110000

120000

135000

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Our starting salary projections come from a detailed, multistep process that ensures our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They’re based on real compensation data for job candidates our recruiters have matched with companies across the country.

The Salary Guide from Robert Half is the original. We’ve been publishing salary forecasts since 1950, and our guide has served as a trusted source for employers, job seekers, industry associations, government and educational institutions, and national and local media.