We sat down with Laura Jones, a Senior Executive Assistant who thrives in her current role within a data-driven, commercial environment. She’s also a member of the PA Life Club, valuing the sense of community and shared learning within the profession…
Congratulations on winning the Team Leader Star at the PA Life Star Awards 2025!
⭐PA Life Star Awards 2026 are now open for nominations!
What does a professional recognition mean to you?
Professional recognition like this means a great deal to me because it reflects the impact of how I work, not just what I do. As EAs, much of the value we add happens behind the scenes, so to be recognised by peers and the wider industry is incredibly validating. It reinforces that leadership, collaboration, and creating positive working environments genuinely matter.
Has your role as an executive support professional been what you expected?
In many ways yes, but it has also exceeded my expectations. I expected to provide high‑level administrative support, but the role has evolved into something far more strategic and people‑focused. I’ve been trusted to influence ways of working, support complex decision‑making, and lead engagement initiatives, all of which have broadened my skill set and kept the role constantly interesting.
How much does the industry you work in influence your role?
The industry plays a significant role. Working within a data‑driven, commercial environment means pace, accuracy, and discretion are critical. It has strengthened my ability to adapt quickly, prioritise effectively, and communicate clearly across different regions and functions. At the same time, the role remains very people‑centric, which is something I value highly.
What are the biggest challenges of your role?
Balancing competing priorities, often with shifting timelines, while remaining calm, proactive, and solutions‑focused is definitely one. Supporting senior leadership requires anticipating needs before they arise, staying agile and resilient.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given, and do you have a favourite quote?
I’d say ‘back myself’. Confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers, it means trusting your judgement and being willing to ask the right questions.
A quote I often come back to is: “You don’t have to know everything, you just have to be willing to learn.” It perfectly reflects the mindset needed in this profession.
What recommendations for professional development would you offer to other assistants: tips, books or courses?
Continuous learning is essential in this role, as is building strong networks with other EAs and business support professionals. Also seeking feedback and staying curious about technology and new tools that improve productivity.
Who inspires you?
People who lead with empathy, integrity, and consistency, especially those who quietly lift others up without seeking recognition. I also draw inspiration from fellow EAs who continuously challenge perceptions of the role and demonstrate its strategic value.
As a PA Life Club member, are there any additional benefits you’d like us to offer?
I’d love to see more opportunities for peer connection and mentorship, particularly for those earlier in their careers. Practical workshops, round‑table discussions, and sessions focused on confidence, leadership, and career progression would add real value. Creating safe spaces for honest conversations about the challenges of the role is also incredibly powerful.
Connect with Laura on LinkedIn
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