What Makes an Outstanding Executive Assistant? Insights from an EA Recruitment Specialist

In today’s fast-paced business environment, the role of the Executive Assistant (EA) has never been more vital. Acting as a trusted partner to senior leadership, an exceptional EA ensures that operations run smoothly, priorities are managed effectively, and communication flows seamlessly across teams.

At VWA, our long-standing experience in Executive Assistant recruitment has shown us that the best EAs bring far more than administrative skill. They demonstrate a rare blend of intelligence, initiative, and emotional understanding that allows them to anticipate needs and add real strategic value.

So, what exactly sets the exceptional apart from the merely efficient? Here are the five qualities we consistently see in outstanding Executive Assistants.

1. Anticipation and Proactivity

The finest Executive Assistants don’t simply respond to requests - they anticipate them. They have an intuitive understanding of their executive’s working style, priorities, and challenges, often identifying potential issues before they arise.

This ability to think several steps ahead enables leaders to stay focused on strategic objectives, confident that their EA is quietly managing the details. In EA recruitment, we find that this proactive mindset is often the defining factor between a good match and a great one.

2. Discretion and Emotional Intelligence

Executive Assistants are often entrusted with highly confidential information and sensitive internal matters. Discretion, therefore, is non-negotiable. Yet equally important is emotional intelligence - the capacity to read a room, interpret tone, and communicate appropriately across all levels of an organisation.

An EA with high emotional intelligence builds strong relationships not only with their principal but also with colleagues, clients, and external partners. This balance of professionalism and approachability is a hallmark of successful executive assistant recruitment.

3. Adaptability and Calm Under Pressure

The modern workplace is unpredictable, and senior leaders’ priorities can shift in an instant. Exceptional EAs thrive in this environment because they remain composed, flexible, and solutions-focused, even under pressure.

Whether rearranging a complex schedule, responding to last-minute changes, or supporting multiple stakeholders, adaptability allows an Executive Assistant to maintain structure and composure amidst change. At VWA, we look for candidates who display this resilience naturally - those who view challenges as opportunities to demonstrate capability.

4. Strong Commercial Awareness

While technical ability and organisation are essential, the best EAs understand the bigger picture. They know how their executive’s objectives fit within the wider business strategy and make decisions that reflect that understanding.

This commercial awareness enables EAs to prioritise effectively, communicate with insight, and act as a true extension of leadership. It’s one of the most valuable traits we identify in EA recruitment, particularly in fast-moving sectors such as financial services, executive search, and professional services.

5. A Growth Mindset

Finally, exceptional Executive Assistants are curious, engaged, and eager to learn. They embrace new technology, seek feedback, and adapt to evolving ways of working. This growth mindset ensures their skills remain current and their contribution continues to evolve with their organisation’s needs.

At VWA, we’ve seen time and again that the EAs who make the biggest impact are those who see their role as a partnership - one that grows and strengthens alongside their executive’s success.

Partnering with VWA for Executive Assistant Recruitment

Finding an EA who combines these qualities requires more than just a review of skills and experience. It demands a nuanced understanding of personality, working style, and cultural fit - something VWA has honed over almost four decades in the market.

As a specialist Executive Assistant recruitment agency based in London, we take pride in our consultative, relationship-led approach. We partner closely with clients to understand their business, their leadership style, and the kind of support that will make a lasting difference.

If you’re seeking an exceptional Executive Assistant, or wish to discuss how VWA can support your EA recruitment needs, we’d be delighted to start the conversation.

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