The Executive Assistant Role: Not a Stepping Stone, But a Destination
The Executive Assistant Role: Not a Stepping Stone, But a Destination
The Executive Assistant (EA) role has been viewed by many as a temporary stop on the way to "something bigger", often assumed to be a stepping stone to the push of a Chief of Staff (CoS) or other leadership titles. While both roles hold strategic importance in the executive suite, it is time to reframe how we view the EA profession: not as a stepping stone, but as a destination.
A VIP Role in the Executive Suite
Executive Assistants are not simply task managers or schedule keepers. They are critical business partners who bring operational excellence, institutional knowledge, emotional intelligence, and strategic insight to the executive function. The best EAs are deeply trusted advisors who understand the business as well as, and sometimes better than, the leaders they support.
The Misconception: EA as Pre-CoS
It is a common misperception that Chief of Staff is the natural "next step" for a high-performing EA. But the two roles are not on a linear career ladder, they are parallel paths, with distinct skill sets and goals. The CoS may own project management or cross-functional execution, while the EA is often the protector of time, energy, priorities, and executive reputation.
Career EAs are not aspiring to become something else. They are building deep expertise and long-term careers that provide personal fulfillment, professional challenge, and outsized impact. Just like CFOs or CMOs, they do not need to "move on" to validate their success.
A Career of Influence and Longevity
Many of the most successful CEOs credit their long-term EAs with contributing to their leadership legacy. When an EA stays with a CEO or organization for 5, 10, or even 20 years, they become a cultural anchor and an operational force. Their influence may not always come with a title change, but it certainly shows in the results.
Let's Elevate the Narrative
As a recruiter who places both Executive Assistants and Chiefs of Staff, I want to continue to give the EA role the recognition it deserves as a high-impact, high-integrity profession that attracts top-tier talent and demands respect.
Whether you are hiring or aspiring, remember: the EA role is not a way station. It is a VIP seat at the table.
Diane Steele
Founder, Steele Recruiting
Specializing in Executive Assistant and Chief of Staff placements for the C-Suite
