PA Life Spring Issue’s Work & Life interview features Ivana Cartman, an Executive Assistant and PA Life Club member. She is also the winner of the PA Life Club Member Star at the PA Life Star Awards 2025. Ivana is a career EA currently working at a private equity firm in a fast-paced environment. Her role perfectly matches her drive to excel—managing multiple priorities, maintaining meticulous attention to detail, and consistently delivering results…
What made you enter the executive support profession?
I chose the executive support profession because I enjoy creating structure and helping others succeed. My organizational skills and ability to anticipate needs make this role a perfect fit, and I like contributing to smooth operations behind the scenes.
Have you worked in very different sectors from education to renewable energy, and now finance.
How much does the industry you are in influence your role?
The core of my role stays the same, but the industry shapes priorities and language. Each sector has its own pace and focus—finance demands precision and confidentiality, while education on emotional intelligence and renewable energy emphasized compliance and sustainability. Adapting to these nuances keeps the role interesting.
And what are the biggest challenges you face in your role?
Balancing competing priorities and handling urgent changes while keeping projects on track is the biggest challenge. It requires adaptability and clear communication.
What are your main responsibilities? Do you also get involved in organising events?
My main responsibilities include managing calendars, meetings, and executive support. Yes, I also organise events. These can be anything from board meetings to company retreats and business dinners. I also arrange the travel and accommodation for these, the full logistics of it all.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given, and do you have a favourite quote?
This quote really speaks to me: ‘What you are not changing, you are choosing.’ It reminds me to stay proactive and continuously improve processes rather than accept the status quo.
Do you have any recommendations for professional development: tips, books or courses?
My tips are stay tech-savvy, work on your communication and network. A strong network gives access to resources, insights, and support, which helps you deliver more effectively in a dynamic role. As for courses – take advantage of the many LinkedIn learning programs.
Work & Life of an Executive Assistant is for ever evolving. Who inspires you to keep going?
I’m inspired by people who stay calm under pressure and lead with integrity. Those qualities motivate me to bring the same approach to my role.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
In my spare time, I’m very active—I enjoy going to the gym and challenging myself with hikes. I also love photography and reading
Connect with Ivana in LinkedIn
Join PA Life Club – it’s free for EAs, PAs, VAs, Office Managers and other admin and business support professionals
Are you an executive or business support professional? If so, why not join PA Life Club! It’s a free network for professionals like you. We organise events & fam trips with member priority bookings, have a free peer-to-peer mentoring programme, exclusive partner offers and discounted online courses for you.
You can read more of our Work & Life interviews here.
