Our summer issue’s PA Life Club member interview features Bianca Nicolae, Personal Assistant at Imperial Hotels. Bianca’s talents and dedication on career journey from hospitality to a PA was recognised with the Rising Star Award 2024 at the PA Life Star Awards.
What does a professional recognition such as this mean to you?
Winning the Rising Star Award truly meant the world to me and has also made me feel more connected to the wider PA/EA community. Iโve been a PA for nearly three years now, and this is my first role in this field. I studied hospitality and spent my earlier career working in the industry, so transitioning into this position was a new challenge for me. As the only PA in my company, itโs not always easy. Iโve felt quite isolated and thatโs why this recognition feels so special. Itโs a reminder that the work Iโm doing does make a difference.
What do you enjoy most about your role? And what’s most challenging?
Itโs incredibly rewarding to know that Iโm helping things run smoothly behind the scenes, making my executivesโ and the wider teamsโ day-to-day a little easier. I genuinely enjoy being that go-to person people can rely on, and I love the variety the role brings; no two days are ever the same. Iโve found setting boundaries challenging, especially when my workload becomes overwhelming. But Iโve learned that being clear about capacity and priorities is a key part of being effective in this role.
What attracted you into the hospitality sector?
Iโve always loved helping people, and my journey into hospitality began when I was a teenager working part-time at weddings. I still remember the feeling at the end of each event, knowing Iโd been part of someoneโs special day and contributed to creating lasting memories. So, when I came across my current PA role, it felt like a perfect opportunity to explore a different side of the industry; to understand what happens behind the scenes and how decisions are made
Do you also get involved in organising events?
Yes, I organise a wide variety of events; from Away Days for our Exec and Senior Leadership Teams to large-scale quarterly Town Halls with over 400 attendees, both in person and via Teams. I also coordinate more dynamic events like our Annual Gala Dinner, with about 800 attendees, where I oversee everything from logistics to creative competitions, such as cooking challenges and welcome drink competitions.
Whatโs the best advice youโve been given, and do you have a favourite quote?
During my first internship I was told never to be afraid of taking risks or feeling uncomfortable. Because thatโs often where the real growth happens. I also find inspiration in Oshoโs words, and this quote really resonates with me: โTake life in your hands with great love and joy, with great courage and risk. Only those who are ready to lose everything are the ones who are capable of living totally.โ
Do you have any recommendations for personal development books or professional courses?
Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman. Itโs helped me become more aware of how emotions influence our behaviour, relationships, and decision-making. Itโs also given me tools to respond more thoughtfully, communicate more effectively, and navigate challenges with more empathy and clarity.
Connect with Bianca on LinkedIn.
You can read the rest of the PA Life Summer 2025 Issue and find more interviews with EAs and PAs here. including Matthias Jahn, EA in our summer PA Profile.
