Executive assistants are the strategic partners who enable Australia’s business leaders to focus on driving organisational success. From ASX 200 companies in Sydney’s financial district to innovative startups in Melbourne’s tech hubs, demand remains strong for skilled executive assistants who can manage complex schedules, coordinate high-stakes meetings, and serve as trusted gatekeepers. However, competition for premium executive support roles is fierce, making a strategically crafted resume crucial for demonstrating your ability to operate at the highest levels of business.
Executive Assistant Resume Examples and How to Write
An executive assistant serves as a strategic partner to senior executives, managing complex administrative functions, coordinating high-level communications, and ensuring seamless business operations that enable leadership to focus on strategic initiatives. This comprehensive guide will help you create a powerful executive assistant resume tailored for the Australian corporate market, complete with industry-specific examples and proven strategies that will help you secure interviews at leading organisations across the country.
Executive Assistant Resume (Text Version)
Senior Executive Assistant
Contact Information:
Phone: 0412 345 678
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahwellingtonea
Location: Melbourne, VIC 3000
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Senior executive assistant with 8+ years of experience supporting C-suite executives in ASX 200 companies and multinational corporations. Proven expertise in managing complex calendars, coordinating international travel, and facilitating board-level communications. Skilled in stakeholder management, project coordination, and maintaining absolute discretion whilst handling sensitive information. Recognised for exceptional organisational abilities and proactive problem-solving that enhances executive productivity and drives business outcomes.
CORE COMPETENCIES
• Executive calendar and travel management
• Board meeting coordination and minute-taking
• Stakeholder relationship management
• Project coordination and event planning
• International business protocol and etiquette
• Confidential document and information management
• Cross-functional team liaison and communication
• Budget management and expense reporting
• Crisis management and problem resolution
• Strategic planning support and research
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Microsoft Office Suite (Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Google Workspace and collaboration tools
• Zoom, Microsoft Teams, WebEx conferencing platforms
• Travel booking systems (Amadeus, Sabre, Concur)
• CRM systems (Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Project management tools (Asana, Monday.com, Trello)
• Document management systems (SharePoint, Dropbox Business)
• Video conferencing and presentation technology
WORK EXPERIENCE
Senior Executive Assistant to CEO | Telstra Corporation, Melbourne
March 2020 – Present
• Provide comprehensive executive support to CEO managing $22B telecommunications company with 30,000+ employees
• Coordinate complex international travel and accommodation for 50+ executive trips annually, achieving 99% accuracy rate
• Manage CEO’s calendar with 80+ meetings per week, optimising schedule efficiency and stakeholder engagement
• Facilitate board meetings for 10+ directors, including agenda preparation, venue coordination, and confidential minute-taking
• Liaise with government officials, industry leaders, and international partners on behalf of executive office
• Coordinate annual shareholder meeting for 1.4 million shareholders, managing logistics for 500+ attendees
• Process and prioritise 200+ daily communications, ensuring critical issues receive immediate executive attention
• Manage executive office budget of $500K annually, maintaining accurate records and achieving 5% cost savings
Executive Assistant to Managing Director | PwC Australia, Sydney
June 2017 – February 2020
• Supported Managing Director overseeing 8,000+ staff across consulting, audit, and advisory services
• Coordinated client meetings and presentations for partners and senior executives, managing relationships worth $100M+ annually
• Organised 15+ industry conferences and client events, including venue selection, catering, and VIP guest management
• Prepared briefing documents and research reports for executive decision-making and client presentations
• Managed sensitive partner compensation discussions and maintained strict confidentiality protocols
• Coordinated international assignments and secondments for senior staff across Asia-Pacific region
• Implemented digital filing system improving document retrieval efficiency by 40%
Personal Assistant to General Manager | ANZ Banking Group, Melbourne
January 2015 – May 2017
• Provided administrative support to General Manager of Retail Banking division serving 8 million customers
• Managed complex diary scheduling across multiple time zones for executive with 12 direct reports
• Coordinated quarterly business reviews and strategic planning sessions for senior leadership team
• Processed expense reports and maintained accurate records for executive travel and entertainment budget
• Assisted with recruitment processes including interview coordination and candidate communication
• Prepared presentations and reports for executive committee meetings and board submissions
Administrative Assistant | Deloitte Australia, Melbourne
September 2013 – December 2014
• Provided administrative support to team of 5 senior consultants in management consulting division
• Coordinated client workshops and training sessions, managing logistics for groups of 50+ participants
• Prepared proposal documents and presentations for new business development opportunities
• Maintained client databases and assisted with relationship management activities
• Supported graduate recruitment events and new employee onboarding processes
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration
Monash University, Melbourne | Completed: November 2013
• Major: Management and Organisational Behaviour
• Minor: International Business
• Relevant coursework: Strategic Management, Corporate Communications, Project Management
Certificate IV in Business Administration (BSB40120)
RMIT Professional Development | Completed: March 2015
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Executive Assistant Masterclass – Australian Institute of Management (2023)
• Advanced Excel for Business Professionals – Microsoft Training (2022)
• Project Management Fundamentals – PMI Melbourne Chapter (2021)
• International Protocol and Etiquette – Diplomatic Academy (2020)
LANGUAGES
• English (Native)
• French (Conversational)
• Mandarin (Basic Business Level)
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
• Executive Assistants Network Australia – Active Member
• International Association of Administrative Professionals – Member
• Australian Institute of Management – Associate Member
What is The Best Format for an Executive Assistant Resume?
The reverse chronological format is the most effective choice for executive assistant resumes in Australia’s corporate landscape. This format showcases your most recent and relevant executive support experience first, allowing hiring managers and senior executives to quickly assess your career progression and level of responsibility. Australian organisations, particularly large corporations and professional services firms, strongly favour this format as it clearly demonstrates your advancement through increasingly senior administrative roles and your ability to handle complex executive support responsibilities.
Resume Parts and Formatting Guidelines:
Header: Include your full name, phone number, professional email address, LinkedIn profile, and location. For executive assistant roles, ensure your email address reflects the highest level of professionalism, as you’ll be representing senior executives in communications.
Summary: A compelling 3-4 sentence professional summary highlighting your years of executive support experience, types of executives supported, and key specialisations. This section should immediately convey your ability to operate at senior organisational levels.
Experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order, emphasising executive support roles and quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact on executive productivity and organisational efficiency.
Education: Include relevant qualifications such as business administration degrees, professional development certificates, and any specialised training that enhances your executive support capabilities.
Other Sections: Core competencies, technical skills, professional development, languages, and professional associations that demonstrate your commitment to excellence in executive support.
Technical Specifications:
Use sophisticated, professional fonts such as Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman. Your name should be elegantly displayed in 18-20pt font, section headings in 12-14pt, and body text in 11-12pt. Maintain consistent 0.75-1 inch margins and ensure generous white space for premium presentation. Always submit as a PDF unless specifically requested otherwise, as this preserves your professional formatting across all systems and demonstrates attention to detail that executives expect.
What Experience Should Be on Your Executive Assistant Resume?
Your experience section should prioritise executive and senior-level administrative support roles whilst highlighting transferable skills from other administrative, customer service, or project coordination positions. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to enhance executive effectiveness, manage confidential information, and coordinate complex business activities. Even if you haven’t held formal executive assistant positions, emphasise any experience supporting senior management, handling sensitive information, or managing high-stakes administrative responsibilities.
Key elements to include:
- Level of executives supported and organisational scope
- Calendar management and scheduling complexity
- Travel coordination and international business support
- Meeting and event management responsibilities
- Confidential information and stakeholder relationship management
- Process improvements and efficiency gains achieved
Executive Assistant to Chief Operating Officer | Westpac Banking Corporation, Sydney
April 2021 – Present
• Provide strategic administrative support to COO overseeing operations for 40,000+ employees and $500B in assets
• Manage complex calendar with 120+ weekly appointments across multiple time zones, optimising executive availability and stakeholder access
• Coordinate international board meetings and regulatory briefings, managing logistics for 15+ country representatives
• Process and prioritise 300+ daily communications, ensuring critical regulatory and operational matters receive immediate attention
• Manage annual operational planning cycle, coordinating input from 20+ division heads and preparing executive presentations
• Supervise team of 3 junior assistants supporting senior operations executives, providing training and quality oversight
• Maintain absolute discretion regarding merger discussions, regulatory matters, and strategic initiatives worth $2B+
• Implement digital workflow systems reducing executive administrative time by 25% and improving response efficiency
Assistant | Big Company
2021 – Present
• Helped executive with daily tasks
• Scheduled meetings and calls
• Answered phones and emails
• Did filing and paperwork
• Booked travel sometimes
Entry-Level Executive Assistant Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level positions, focus on administrative roles, internships, or positions that demonstrate your ability to handle responsibility, maintain confidentiality, and support senior professionals. Emphasise your attention to detail, professionalism, and any experience with executive-level tasks or high-pressure environments, even if gained through internships or volunteer work.
Administrative Coordinator | Herbert Smith Freehills, Sydney
February 2023 – Present
• Provide administrative support to team of 8 senior partners in corporate law division handling $500M+ transactions
• Coordinate client meetings and due diligence sessions for major M&A deals, managing complex scheduling across international time zones
• Prepare confidential legal documents and maintain secure filing systems for sensitive commercial transactions
• Assist with business development activities including client entertainment and industry conference coordination
• Manage partner travel arrangements and expense reporting for international client meetings and court appearances
• Demonstrated reliability and discretion handling privileged client information and commercial-in-confidence matters
Executive Intern | Macquarie Group, Sydney
November 2022 – January 2023
• Supported C-suite executive team during 10-week summer internship program
• Assisted with preparation of board presentations and shareholder communication materials
• Coordinated logistics for senior executive retreats and strategic planning sessions
• Conducted research and analysis to support executive decision-making processes
• Maintained professional demeanour whilst handling sensitive financial information and strategic discussions
Office Worker
2023 – Present
• Worked in busy office
• Helped lawyers with stuff
• Answered phones
• Made appointments sometimes
How to Write the Education Section for your Executive Assistant Resume
The education section for executive assistant resumes should highlight qualifications that demonstrate your business acumen, communication skills, and professional development commitment. While a bachelor’s degree isn’t always mandatory, relevant qualifications in business administration, communications, or related fields can significantly strengthen your candidacy, particularly for senior executive support roles. Include any professional development that shows your dedication to enhancing your executive support capabilities and staying current with business best practices.
Executive Assistant Resume Example [Education]
Bachelor of Business (Management)
University of Technology Sydney | Completed: December 2020
• Dean’s List recognition for academic excellence (2019, 2020)
• Relevant coursework: Corporate Strategy, Business Communications, International Business, Project Management
• Final year project: “Executive Decision-Making in Crisis Management” – achieved High Distinction
Certificate IV in Business Administration (BSB40120)
TAFE NSW, Sydney Institute | Completed: June 2018
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Advanced Executive Assistant Program – Australian Institute of Management (2023)
• Strategic Thinking for Administrative Professionals – Harvard Business School Online (2022)
• International Business Etiquette and Protocol – Etiquette Institute (2021)
How to Write the Skills Section for your Executive Assistant Resume
The skills section of your executive assistant resume should showcase both technical competencies and sophisticated interpersonal abilities that demonstrate your capacity to operate effectively at the highest levels of business. Aim for 16-20 skills total, balancing hard skills that show your technical capabilities with soft skills that highlight your professional maturity, discretion, and strategic thinking abilities. Modern executive support roles require proficiency with advanced business technologies and the ability to adapt quickly to new digital tools and platforms.
Executive Assistant Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
- Advanced Microsoft Office Suite (Excel macros, PowerPoint design, Outlook rules)
- Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 administration
- Video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Teams, WebEx, GoToMeeting)
- Travel management systems (Concur, Amadeus, Corporate Traveller)
- CRM platforms (Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft Dynamics)
- Project management tools (Asana, Monday.com, Smartsheet, Trello)
- Document management systems (SharePoint, Box, Dropbox Business)
- Database management and advanced data analysis
- Social media management for executives
- Budget management and financial reporting
- Event planning and vendor management
- Website content management systems
Executive Assistant Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Exceptional written and verbal communication
- Absolute discretion and confidentiality management
- Stakeholder relationship management
- Crisis management and problem-solving
- Cultural sensitivity and international business protocol
- Time management and priority setting
- Attention to detail and quality assurance
- Adaptability and flexibility under pressure
- Leadership and team coordination
- Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
- Proactive thinking and anticipation of needs
How to pick the best Executive Assistant skills:
- Analyse job descriptions for senior executive assistant roles to identify the most valued competencies and technical requirements
- Include only skills you can confidently demonstrate and discuss in detail during interviews with senior executives
- Balance technical proficiency with sophisticated interpersonal skills that show you can represent executives professionally
- Prioritise skills that demonstrate your ability to handle confidential information and complex business relationships
- Include unique capabilities that differentiate you, such as international experience, multilingual abilities, or industry specialisations
- Regularly update your skills to reflect new technologies and business tools commonly used in executive environments
Executive Assistant Resume Examples [Skills]
• Calendar Management: Coordinated 150+ weekly meetings across 12 time zones for multinational CEO, achieving 98% schedule adherence
• Stakeholder Relations: Managed relationships with 50+ board members, government officials, and industry leaders on behalf of executive office
• International Protocol: Facilitated diplomatic meetings and cultural exchanges, ensuring appropriate etiquette for 20+ countries
• Crisis Communication: Managed executive communications during 3 major corporate crises, maintaining stakeholder confidence and media relations
• Project Coordination: Led cross-functional teams of 15+ members for annual shareholder meetings serving 100,000+ investors
• Technology Integration: Implemented digital workflow solutions reducing executive administrative overhead by 35% whilst improving communication efficiency
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Executive Assistant Resume?
Additional sections can significantly enhance your executive assistant resume, particularly in Australia’s competitive corporate environment where employers value well-rounded professionals who bring strategic value beyond traditional administrative support. These sections allow you to showcase qualifications, experiences, and personal attributes that differentiate you from other candidates and demonstrate your suitability for high-level executive partnerships. However, only include sections that add genuine value and align with executive-level expectations.
Valuable bonus sections include:
Professional Development: Advanced courses, certifications, or training programs that enhance your executive support capabilities and business knowledge.
Languages: Particularly valuable in Australia’s multicultural business environment and for supporting executives with international responsibilities.
Professional Associations: Membership in organisations like Executive Assistants Network Australia or International Association of Administrative Professionals.
Awards and Recognition: Any acknowledgments for excellence in administrative support, project management, or professional achievement.
Volunteer Leadership: Board positions or leadership roles that demonstrate strategic thinking and governance experience.
Publications or Speaking: Articles, blog posts, or conference presentations related to executive support or business administration.
Executive Assistant Resume Examples [Other Sections]
• Executive Leadership Certificate – Australian Institute of Company Directors (2023)
• Advanced Project Management – PMI Australia (2022)
• International Business Protocol Certification – Protocol School of Australia (2021)
• Strategic Communication for Executives – Melbourne Business School (2020)
LANGUAGES
• English (Native)
• French (Business Fluent)
• Japanese (Conversational)
• Italian (Basic)
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
• Outstanding Executive Support Professional – Executive Assistants Network Australia (2023)
• Employee Excellence Award – Telstra Corporation (2022)
• Project Management Achievement – PwC Australia (2019)
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP
• Board Secretary – Australian Business Women’s Network Melbourne Chapter (2021-Present)
• Event Committee Chair – International Women’s Day Corporate Breakfast (2020-2022)
• Watching reality TV shows
• Social media scrolling
• Online shopping during work hours
• Gossiping about office politics
RANDOM ACTIVITIES
• Sometimes organise my own calendar
• Know how to use Microsoft Word
• Good at remembering things
Tip: You can include sophisticated interests that demonstrate relevant skills (such as event planning for charitable organisations showing organisational abilities), international travel experience that enhances cultural competency, board or committee positions that show governance understanding, and additional qualifications like wine appreciation or cultural studies that could benefit executive entertainment and relationship building.
How to write an Executive Assistant Resume Objective or Resume Summary
A compelling professional summary serves as your executive partnership statement, providing hiring managers and senior executives with a concise overview of your administrative expertise, years of experience, and the calibre of leaders you’ve successfully supported in 3-4 impactful sentences. For executive assistants, your summary should immediately establish your ability to operate at the highest organisational levels, manage confidential information with absolute discretion, and enhance executive effectiveness through strategic administrative support. This section is crucial as it often determines whether busy executives and their hiring managers invest time in reviewing your complete application.
Key elements to include:
- Years of experience and level of executives supported
- Specific industries, organisational sizes, or business contexts
- Key specialisations such as international business, board governance, or crisis management
- Notable achievements in executive productivity or organisational efficiency
- Professional qualifications and core competencies
Executive Assistant Resume Summary Examples
Senior executive assistant with 10+ years supporting C-suite leaders in ASX 200 companies and multinational corporations across financial services and telecommunications sectors. Proven expertise in managing complex international operations, coordinating board-level governance, and maintaining absolute discretion regarding strategic initiatives worth $5B+. Recognised for exceptional stakeholder management skills and proactive problem-solving that enables executives to focus on critical business priorities. Seeking to leverage strategic administrative expertise and cultural competency in supporting visionary leadership team.
I am an executive assistant looking for a job supporting senior management. I have experience doing administrative work and helping executives with their daily tasks. I am organised and professional and I think I would be good at this type of work.
For entry-level positions targeting executive support, focus on an objective statement that emphasises your professional foundation, transferable skills, and commitment to excellence in supporting senior leadership.
Entry-Level Executive Assistant Resume Summary Examples
Business administration graduate with 2 years of senior-level administrative support experience and internship exposure to C-suite operations in professional services environment. Demonstrated ability to manage confidential information, coordinate complex logistics, and maintain professional relationships with high-net-worth clients and senior stakeholders. Strong foundation in business communications, project coordination, and international protocol. Eager to advance career in executive support whilst contributing organisational excellence, cultural competency, and strategic thinking to senior leadership team.
Recent graduate looking for executive assistant position to start my career. I studied business and did some internships. I’m good with computers and I like helping people. I want to work for a successful company where I can learn and grow.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Executive Assistant Resume
LinkedIn is particularly important for executive assistants in Australia, as it’s frequently used by senior executives, executive search firms, and corporate recruiters to identify and evaluate candidates for high-level support roles. When updating your executive assistant resume, it’s essential to align your LinkedIn profile with the same professional messaging and achievements. Many executives and their hiring representatives cross-reference candidates’ resumes with their LinkedIn profiles to assess professional consistency and calibre of professional relationships within the business community.
Your LinkedIn profile offers valuable opportunity to showcase your professional network, industry engagement, and thought leadership in executive support. Use this platform to demonstrate your understanding of business trends, share insights about executive effectiveness, and connect with other senior administrative professionals across Australia’s corporate landscape.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Executive Assistants
Your LinkedIn headline should immediately communicate your level of executive support, specialisations, and professional standing. Include key competencies and your location to improve discoverability by executive recruiters and senior leaders searching for qualified support professionals.
• “Senior Executive Assistant | C-Suite Support Specialist | Board Governance & International Business | Sydney CBD”
• “Executive Assistant to CEO | 8+ Years ASX 200 Experience | Stakeholder Relations Expert | Melbourne”
• “Strategic Executive Support Professional | Crisis Management & Travel Coordination | Seeking Brisbane Opportunities”
• “Executive Assistant looking for work”
• “Administrative professional”
• “Helping executives succeed”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
Your LinkedIn summary can be significantly longer and more conversational than your resume summary, allowing for 4-6 paragraphs that tell your complete professional story in executive support. Use first-person language and discuss your journey into executive assistance, what motivates you about supporting senior leadership, and your philosophy regarding strategic administrative partnerships. Include specific examples of complex challenges you’ve navigated and your approach to enhancing executive effectiveness.
For Australian executive assistants, consider mentioning your understanding of Australian corporate governance, experience with ASX requirements, or familiarity with Asia-Pacific business protocols that add value to executive operations.
Showcasing Executive Assistant Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s experience section allows you to expand significantly on your resume bullet points, providing space to discuss the strategic nature of your role and the business impact of your contributions. Use the media upload feature to showcase certificates, professional development completions, or examples of events you’ve coordinated (maintaining appropriate confidentiality). Add project sections to highlight specific initiatives you’ve led, such as digital transformation projects, governance improvements, or international expansion support.
Consider including rich media content such as photos of professional conferences you’ve organised, certificates from executive development programs, or testimonials from executives you’ve supported. Always ensure any content maintains appropriate confidentiality and reflects the highest professional standards.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Executive Assistants
Focus on sophisticated executive support competencies, listing 20-25 relevant skills including strategic planning support, stakeholder management, international business, and advanced technology proficiency. Actively seek endorsements from executives you’ve supported, colleagues, and other senior professionals in your network. Consider completing LinkedIn Learning courses related to executive leadership, business strategy, or advanced administrative skills to demonstrate ongoing professional development.
Regularly update your skills to reflect new competencies gained through professional development, executive coaching, or exposure to new business areas and technologies.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Executive Assistants
Optimise your profile for Australia’s executive community by joining relevant LinkedIn groups such as “Executive Assistants Network Australia,” “Australian Institute of Management,” or industry-specific executive groups. Follow major Australian corporations, executive search firms, and business leaders to stay informed about corporate trends and opportunities.
Share content related to executive effectiveness, business insights, or professional development in administrative excellence. Engage thoughtfully with posts from senior executives, comment professionally on business developments, and contribute to discussions about corporate governance or business best practices. Always maintain the highest professional standards and focus on content that demonstrates your business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities.
Creating an outstanding executive assistant resume is your gateway to joining Australia’s senior corporate leadership teams as a trusted strategic partner. Remember that your resume represents not just your administrative capabilities, but your potential to enhance executive effectiveness and contribute to organisational success at the highest levels of business.
After perfecting your resume, complement it with an executive-level cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the specific organisation’s challenges, your alignment with their corporate culture, and how your strategic administrative support can enable their leadership team to achieve ambitious business objectives. Your cover letter provides valuable space to showcase your business communication skills and strategic thinking abilities.
Ready to advance your career in executive support? Start exploring opportunities on premium job platforms like Seek.com.au, executive search firm websites, and LinkedIn Jobs. Consider registering with specialist recruitment agencies that focus on senior administrative roles. Remember to tailor your resume for each application, highlighting experience and competencies most relevant to the specific executive and organisational context.
For ongoing professional development and networking, consider joining the Executive Assistants Network Australia, attending business leadership conferences, or pursuing advanced qualifications through institutions like the Australian Institute of Management. The executive support community values continuous learning and professional excellence, making ongoing development essential for career advancement and maintaining relevance in Australia’s evolving corporate landscape.
