An Executive Assistant becomes valuable when coordination work is fragmenting a leader’s day. The role protects priorities, prepares decisions and keeps commitments from disappearing between meetings.
Look for the signals
Repeated rescheduling, an overflowing inbox, incomplete follow-up, poorly prepared meetings and strategic work pushed to evenings are signs of coordination debt.
Delegate outcomes
Rather than assigning random tasks, define outcomes such as a controlled calendar, prepared leadership meetings, tracked actions and organised travel or events.
Create trust progressively
Begin with clear protocols and lower-risk responsibilities. Expand access and decision rights only as capability and judgement are demonstrated.
Keep the role connected
An EA should understand practice priorities and key stakeholders without becoming an unstructured catch-all. Weekly planning and written priorities keep the role focused.