The Financial Times recently spotlighted Chiefs of Staff as “the invisible ones running the world’s biggest companies.” But for many in the administrative profession, that description feels familiar. Senior Executive Assistants have long operated at the intersection of strategy, communication, and leadership — often without the title or recognition. The rise of the Chief of Staff doesn’t replace the EA role; it expands the ecosystem of executive support, redefining partnership at the highest levels.
Global Skills Matrix
The Rise of the Chief of Staff — And What It Really Means for EAs
The Financial Times has finally spotlighted the Chief of Staff role, but much of what they praise has been the quiet expertise of senior EAs for decades. CoS and EA roles aren’t competitors—they’re partners in the same ecosystem, each driving leadership and business performance in different but complementary ways.
The Rise of the Chief of Staff — and What It Means for Executive Assistants
The Financial Times recently spotlighted Chiefs of Staff as “the invisible ones running the world’s biggest companies.” But for many in the administrative profession, that description feels familiar. Senior Executive Assistants have long operated at the intersection of strategy, communication, and leadership — often without the title or recognition. The rise of the Chief of Staff doesn’t replace the EA role; it expands the ecosystem of executive support, redefining partnership at the highest levels.
Clarity Isn’t a Perk — It’s Mental Wellbeing
Unclear expectations drain more energy than long hours ever could. When your role shifts with every mood or reorganisation, burnout follows. Clear roles protect your mind the way boundaries protect your time — and that’s why the Global Skills Matrix matters. This World Mental Health Day, add your voice and help redefine what clarity looks like for assistants everywhere.
Restructuring Administration for Maximum ROI: Shaping the 2026 Global Skills Matrix
The administrative profession is at a turning point. With hybrid work, AI, and digital-first operations reshaping the landscape, assistants must evolve into strategic partners. That’s why the updated Global Skills Matrix is being built—to provide clarity, credibility, and career pathways that reflect today’s realities.
The Future of the Administrative Profession: A Call to Action
A new white paper highlights three urgent realities for the administrative profession: broken structures, the transformative power of AI, and persistent misunderstanding of the role. But it also sets out practical, community-driven steps to build the future we want—clarity, growth, and a united voice.
Defining the Future of the Administrative Profession: Updating the Global Skills Matrix
From Dallas to across the globe, leaders are asking the same questions: how do we structure administrative roles for maximum impact, move beyond outdated job descriptions, and prove ROI? With hybrid working, AI, and digital-first operations reshaping the landscape, administration has never been more critical. That’s why I’ve partnered with the World Administrators Alliance to relaunch the Global Skills Matrix in 2026 — to bring clarity, credibility, and career pathways to the profession.
Let’s Clear This Up: The Chief of Staff Is Not a “Promoted EA” Role
Confusion between the Executive Assistant and Chief of Staff roles is harming both professions. The Chief of Staff isn’t a next-step title for EAs—it’s a distinct, high-level role requiring a very different skill set. We must protect the integrity of the Level 4 EA and build realistic, rewarding career paths rooted in clarity, not shortcuts.
How HR Can Unlock the Full Potential of Administrative Professionals
Managing the administrative function isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about empowering a strategic workforce. From better role clarity to growth opportunities, here’s what HR needs to know to elevate and optimise the value of administrative professionals.
Still Seeing Admins as a Resource, Not Talent? It’s Costing You
After speaking to assistants at global organizations, one thing is clear: underutilizing administrative professionals is a missed opportunity that directly affects your bottom line. It’s time to shift from viewing admin work as a job to recognizing it as a strategic career—and the Global Skills Matrix shows you how.