FAQs Archive - Page 13 of 15

Q: What is an Executive Business Partner?

A title some large organisations use for a senior EA who operates strategically: anticipating, briefing, managing stakeholders and owning projects for one leader. It sits between a traditional EA and a Chief of Staff, and it is often the most honest description of what a strategic EA already does. We explain the Chief of Staff side of the line in What does a Chief of Staff actually do?

Q: Does a Chief of Staff manage the Executive Assistant?

Sometimes, but the best executive offices treat the two as a pair rather than a hierarchy. The EA usually reports to the leader directly, works alongside the Chief of Staff and owns the diary, travel and inbox outright. What matters more than the reporting line is a written split of responsibilities that both people and the leader have agreed.

Q: Can one person be both the EA and the Chief of Staff?

For a short time, in a small organisation, perhaps. As a permanent arrangement, no. The EA work is constant and interrupt-driven, the Chief of Staff work needs sustained attention across the business, and one person asked to do both will do the urgent one and feel they are failing at the other. If you see the hybrid title in a job advert, ask which half the leader actually wants.

Q: Is a Chief of Staff more senior than an Executive Assistant?

Usually, yes, in scope and pay, because the Chief of Staff is accountable for outcomes across the organisation rather than for one leader's day. In a well-run executive office the two roles work as a pair rather than a hierarchy.

Q: What qualifications does a Chief of Staff need?

None are required. Most UK Chiefs of Staff come from senior EA, operations, consulting or project backgrounds. What organisations look for is evidence of running leadership rhythms, managing senior stakeholders and delivering cross-functional projects, which is why the transition from EA is so common.

Q: What level of EA or PA experience do I need?

Our programmes are designed for practising EAs and PAs at all career stages, from those a few years into the role who want to build confidence and strategic presence, through to highly experienced senior assistants who want to operate at an even higher level or transition into a Chief of Staff position. During your Discovery Call, Emily will check that the programme is matched to your experience and goals. We have written about the skills a modern Executive Assistant needs .