We interviewed Charlotte Colley, Senior EA, for PA Life’s Spring 2025 Issue’s PA Profile. Charlotte is described by her former boss as a game-changer, someone who goes above and beyond, consistently with incredible attention to detail and careful consideration. She is curious, wanting to learn, always looking for new skills and knowledge, bringing fresh ideas and energy to work and has a real drive to innovate to keep ahead of the curve. These accolades also won her the top prize at PA Life Star Awards in 2024โฆ
Congratulations Charlotte Colley for being awarded the PA of the Year Star 2024!
What does winning the PA of the Year award mean to you?
Winning this award feels like getting a gold star in school, but on a far grander scale. Itโs a huge honour and a wonderful recognition (by my previous boss) of the hard work Iโve put into my role. Itโs like the Oscars of the administrative support world, and Iโm thrilled to have the trophy on my desk.
What led you to become an executive support professional and to reach your senior EA role?
Iโve had quite a โwigglyโ career path. Iโve worked in hospitality, sales, the NHS, non-profits, and even airlines. Each role taught me something new and helped me build a strong set of transferable skills. Across all industries and roles, Iโve always had a keen eye for improving processes and building relationships. In this job, you have to be a people person above all else.
The thing that has gained me the most opportunities is being present, making connections with people face-to-face, and putting myself forward for things, even when they seem challenging. Thinking outside the box and maintaining a creative, open mindset can go a long way in any job.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
Staying at the top of my game is a mix of professional development and personal well-being. I attend industry conferences and keep up to date with all the usual newsletters, but I find that networking has been the best way to stay ahead. Sharing knowledge and best practices with others firsthand is invaluable. Iโve always been someone who prefers to share rather than keep my โhomeworkโ close to my chest. You never know where that next introduction might lead you or what you might learn.
On the personal side, walking my two poodles and crocheting blankets for charity are my go-to activities to stay grounded and focused. And letโs not forget the occasional Netflix binge for that all important balance!
What advice would you give for an assistant wanting to advance their career by transitioning from PA to EA?
Seize every opportunity to show what youโre capable of. When I was a PA at Virgin Atlantic, I had a fantastic opportunity to host 13 of our bankers on a press flight to New York on our first A350 aircraft. It was a huge project, and I had to step up and be a big voice in the room without being a bull in a china shop essentially, influencing without authority. Taking on this project required bravery and confidence. I had to manage complex logistics, coordinate with various teams, and ensure everything went smoothly. It showed me the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and taking on challenges that allow you to demonstrate your skills and leadership abilities. And it got me the promotion to EA.
So, my advice is to be proactive and take on projects that stretch your capabilities. Build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and always be ready to step up when opportunities arise. By doing so, youโll not only gain valuable experience but also show others that youโre ready for the next level.
What makes a great assistant today?
Gone are the days of just looking after diaries, travel, and minute-taking. Our roles are so dynamic now, and those who strive to be strategic partners to their executives are the ones who truly stand out. Itโs all in the little things, like understanding the context of requests coming in and reading everything that lands in their inbox as well as their sent items. This is the first thing I tell anyone looking for ways to level up. Building strong relationships with key stakeholders and embracing new technology and ways of working are also crucial. A great Assistant today is proactive, adaptable, and always looking for ways to add value. They anticipate needs, think ahead, and are always ready to tackle new challenges.
By being a strategic partner, you not only support your executive but also contribute to the overall success of the organisation.
How do you see the future of the assistant role and how can assistants ensure career success?
The future of the assistant role is incredibly exciting and dynamic. As technology continues to evolve, so too will our roles. Embrace technology like itโs your new best friend and stay curious. Donโt be afraid to ask why and how, the more you learn about your organisation, the better placed you are to make proactive decisions on behalf of your executive.
Whatโs the best advice youโve been given and by whom?
The best advice Iโve been given is to go slower to go further and faster.โ This gem of wisdom given to me by my previous Boss, reminds me to take my time and really understand what Iโm doing before diving in headfirst. By being thoughtful and deliberate in my approach, I can avoid mistakes, setbacks, and particularly miscommunications that might happen if I rush through tasks. Itโs like the tortoise and the hareโslow and steady wins the race! This advice has been invaluable in helping me achieve long-term success and maintain a steady, sustainable pace in my career.
What are your favourite things to do and places to visit in London?
Ask anyone I know and they will tell you how much I love food and finding new restaurants to try. From fancy Michelin starred numbers to strange pop-up places. I love trying new and interesting places (or to send my Exec).
Where do you most like to send your execs for a business lunch or dinner in London?
Our London office is in the City so Borough Market is my go-to for dining options. The Wolsley City is close by and easy for breakfast, Bancone is a great shout for a light Italian lunch and Hawksmoor for a really nice dinner. The Ned is always fun for quick drinks after workโฆIโm lucky to have so many options on our doorstep.
You can connect with Charlotte on LinkedIn
Read more PA Life’s PA Profile interviews here.
