Executive Secretary

Administrative Assistant, Administrative Secretary, Executive Assistant, Executive Secretary
Job Description

An Executive Secretary provides high-level administrative support to executives in an organization, handling tasks such as correspondence, scheduling, and document preparation. They play a key role in ensuring that executive offices run efficiently and effectively.

Typical Preparation

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Years in related career: Less than 5 years

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: -21.1% (negative growth)

Annual job openings: 50 000

Direct AI exposure: 62% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 87% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Executive Assistants. According to the wage tables, average income is $72K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$54K
per year
$62K
per year
$72K
per year
$84K
per year
$102K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $7.01K above the national average.

What does an Executive Secretary do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Manages schedules and appointments for executives.
  • Drafts, edits, and prepares business correspondence and reports.
  • Organizes and maintains files and records.
  • Handles confidential information and ensures privacy.
  • Coordinates travel arrangements and manages expense reports.

Work environment

Executive Secretaries typically work in office settings, often in close proximity to the executives they support. Their work environment is professional and can be fast-paced, requiring them to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. They may also be required to attend meetings and assist with special projects or events.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Legal Executive Assistance: Specializing in supporting executives in legal firms or departments.
  • Medical Executive Assistance: Providing support to executives in healthcare organizations.
  • Corporate Governance: Assisting executives in large corporations, focusing on business operations and corporate affairs.
  • Non-Profit Sector Assistance: Specializing in supporting executives in non-profit organizations.
  • Government Executive Assistance: Working with government officials or public sector executives.

Description

The role of an Executive Secretary is vital for the smooth operation of any organization's top-level management. They act as the first point of contact for the executive, handling communications, organizing meetings, and managing schedules. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Executive Secretaries must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and be adept at handling confidential information. They often serve as a liaison between the executive and other staff or external contacts, requiring diplomacy and professionalism. Proficiency in office software and technology is essential, as is the ability to adapt to new tools and processes.

This career offers the opportunity to work closely with organizational leaders, providing a unique perspective on business management and decision-making. It can be a rewarding profession for those who thrive in supporting roles and enjoy the challenges of executive-level administration.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Executive Secretary if you are...

Pros:

  • Close collaboration with company leaders and insight into executive decision-making.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • A diverse range of tasks, providing varied day-to-day work.

Cons:

  • High levels of responsibility and potentially long working hours.
  • The need to constantly prioritize and manage time effectively.
  • Handling high-pressure situations and meeting tight deadlines.

How to become an Executive Secretary

Typical education

A high school diploma is often required. Many employers prefer candidates with some post-secondary education, such as a college diploma or professional certification in administrative assistance or a related field. Additional training in business communication, office technology, and management is also valuable.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Business Studies to understand basic principles of business and administration.
  • English and Communication for developing strong writing and speaking skills.
  • Computer Science or Information Technology for proficiency in office software.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in student government or administrative clubs.
  • Volunteer in office settings or take on organizational roles in clubs and events.
  • Develop leadership skills through team sports or group activities.

Preparation after high school

  • Complete postsecondary education such as a college diploma, associate's degree, or certificate in business administration, office administration, or office management.
  • Gain experience through entry-level administrative or clerical roles, progressively supporting managers or senior staff.
  • Develop strong proficiency with office software and technologies (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, scheduling systems, document management tools).
  • Build skills in communication, organization, confidentiality, and time management, which are essential in executive-level support roles.

More resources

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