How to Become a Top Executive Assistant in Canada: Skills, Certifications and Jobs

The executive assistant role is back in the spotlight, and this time, they’re running the show. Leaders are facing packed schedules, shifting priorities and constant decisions, and they’re leaning on EAs to keep it all moving. Sure, AI can book a meeting or draft a note, but it can’t match the judgment, discretion and human touch that make top EAs indispensable.

Today’s EAs are far more than calendar managers. They’re trusted advisors, project managers, culture champions and often the right hand to the C-suite. Research shows that executives with strong EAs can free up as much as 20% of their time for high-value work (Harvard Business Review).  

That’s a game-changer in a world where every minute counts.

Demand for skilled EAs has stayed strong, and in some industries, it’s growing. In recent years, they’ve navigated shifting priorities, hybrid work, leadership changes and rapid digital transformation, all while keeping organizations on track. For many companies, a great EA isn’t a perk; it’s a competitive edge.

So, what does this mean for EA careers? Whether you’re already in the role or aiming for it, now is the time to sharpen your skills, broaden your scope and position yourself for growth.

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Why executive assistants are in high demand right now

As organizations adapt to new ways of working, the executive assistant’s value is rising. From freeing up leadership bandwidth to managing the moving parts of hybrid teams, today’s EAs are stepping into roles that require sharper skills and greater impact than ever before.

Time is a rare commodity for leaders

‍Between strategic planning, team leadership and adapting to rapid technological change, executives have more on their plates than ever. Skilled EAs help reclaim those critical hours by managing workflows, filtering priorities and coordinating high-volume demands.

Hybrid and virtual work heighten complexity

‍With leaders and teams scattered across time zones and locations, keeping schedules, communication and information flowing smoothly is no small feat. EAs with the right skills can navigate that complexity and keep everything aligned.

Automation can streamline, but can’t empathize or advise

Tech tools can schedule a meeting or draft a note, but they can’t match the discretion, nuance and proactive judgment of an experienced EA — especially when handling sensitive information or navigating organizational dynamics.

A generational shift is creating opportunities

Canada’s EA workforce is aging; 43 % were aged 50 or older in 2023, with a median retirement age of 62 (jobbank.gc.ca). As experienced professionals retire, new openings are emerging for the next generation of EAs.

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9 in-demand executive assistant roles we’re hiring for right now

From fast-paced corporate offices to mission-driven non-profits, executive assistants are in demand in every sector. Here are nine exciting EA roles we’re currently recruiting for in Canada — each offering the opportunity to work closely with senior leaders, sharpen your skills and make a meaningful impact.

1. Executive Assistant to the CEO – Ottawa engineering firm

‍‍Join a leading Ottawa engineering firm as the CEO’s right hand, managing schedules, travel and key projects that keep the business moving forward.  

‍2. Executive Assistant – 4-month hybrid contract

Provide a wide range of high-volume administrative support to senior leadership at a Toronto-based public sector firm in the financial services sector.

3. Executive Assistant to the Chief Medical Officer

Join a leading research institute in Toronto as the EA to the CMO, providing strong executive support and contributing to research-based initiatives.

4. Executive Assistant/Personal Assistant – Canadian wealth management firm

Support a private family office in Ottawa, managing schedules, calendars, appointments and travel arrangements to keep the family business running smoothly.

5. Executive Assistant to the President – Ottawa marine transportation company

Support the President and senior leadership’s executive and administrative needs, including calendar scheduling, meeting attendance, travel logistics and communication support.

6. Governance and Board Operations Specialist and Executive Assistant

Join a leading organization in Toronto’s public sector in this newly created Executive Assistant and governance-focused role, supporting the logistics for five board committees while working closely with senior leadership to keep staff and the board informed.

7. Executive Assistant – Toronto professional services firm

A 3-month contract with a downtown professional services firm for an EA with excellent communication, organization and task management skills to provide high-level administrative support to the executive team.

8. Bilingual Executive Assistant to the Director – Ottawa Crown corporation

Provide dedicated assistance to the Director’s office, helping to advance strategic initiatives while managing scheduling, communications and a broad range of confidential tasks. Must be fluently bilingual (English and French) and hold a valid security clearance.

9. Executive Assistant – Toronto, provincial government

Deliver high-level administrative and operational support to the Executive Director, Senior Management and the Chair and Members, ensuring the smooth execution of daily operations, effective communication flow and the coordination of key initiatives.

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Creative & strategic courses to elevate your EA edge

The best executive assistants go beyond mastering the basics; they develop skills that set them apart. From creative problem-solving to advanced communication and design, these courses can help you bring fresh ideas to the table, deliver strategic value and make your work truly memorable.

1. Creative, Critical & Design Thinking Certificate – McMaster University (Online)

Strengthen your problem-solving skills with tools from design thinking, empathy mapping and human-centred frameworks — capabilities rarely covered in traditional EA training.

2. Communication in the 21st Century Workplace – Coursera (Free, Online)  

Learn how to build stronger workplace connections by understanding your communication style, bridging generational differences and adapting to virtual, hybrid and in-person environments.

3. Using AI for Workplace Productivity – SkillPath (Online)

This 3-hour live virtual workshop shows you how to use AI tools to streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, manage time more effectively and boost collaboration.  

4. Strategic Business Partner Course – EA Campus (Online)

Shift from task-focused support to trusted strategic partner. This course covers building deep trust, aligning with business strategy and enhancing communication with senior leaders.

5. Presentation Design Courses– Canva (Free, Online)

Learn to design polished, professional presentations without advanced design skills. From layout and colour theory to visual storytelling and animation, Canva’s lessons walk you through creating decks that truly stand out.

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Top soft skills every exceptional executive assistant needs

The best executive assistants do more than keep things organized; they act as strategic partners who anticipate needs, solve problems before they arise and build strong relationships across the organization. While technical know-how matters, these soft skills are what truly set top performers apart.

1. Anticipation and proactive thinking

‍Outstanding EAs are always two steps ahead, spotting potential issues or opportunities before their leader even asks, reacting quickly while planning for what’s next.

2. Discretion and trustworthiness

‍Handling sensitive information and confidential conversations is part of the job. Integrity, discretion and trust are non-negotiable.

3. Stellar communication

‍Whether drafting concise emails or navigating complex conversations, top EAs adapt their written and verbal communication to suit any audience.

4. Flexibility and resilience‍

Priorities can shift in an instant. Exceptional EAs stay calm under pressure, pivot quickly and keep a positive, solutions-focused mindset.

5. Relationship-building skills

‍Great EAs are connectors, building strong relationships with leaders, colleagues, clients and stakeholders to keep collaboration smooth and workflows efficient.  

6. Emotional intelligence and adaptability

Exceptional EAs know that every leader works differently — and they adapt. Over time, they learn their executive’s preferences, communication style and even emotional cues, often anticipating needs before being asked. That level of awareness builds trust and enables truly seamless support.

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Executive assistants are the quiet powerhouses behind thriving organizations. With the right mix of skills, strategic thinking and curiosity to keep learning, you can turn the role into a career that’s impactful, dynamic and full of growth potential.

Ready to take the next step in your EA career? Browse open EA opportunities on our Job Portal.

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