An executive assistant is a professional who provides administrative and clerical support to executives (CEOs, presidents, vice presidents, etc.). They are responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the executive's office, and acting as a liaison between the executive and other employees or external stakeholders.

Measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for executive assistants can vary depending on the specific responsibilities and goals of the role within an organization. Here are some commonly used KPIs for executive assistants:

- Calendar management: Number of meetings scheduled, accuracy of scheduling, and timeliness in managing the executive's calendar.
- Communication: Responsiveness to emails, phone calls, and other forms of communication, as well as the ability to handle inquiries and requests in a timely and professional manner.
- Travel management: Efficient organization of travel arrangements, including booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, while considering cost-effectiveness and minimizing travel disruptions.
- Project management: Ability to successfully manage and coordinate projects assigned to the executive, ensuring timely completion and high-quality deliverables.
- Problem-solving: Capacity to identify and resolve issues or challenges that arise in the executive's workflow or responsibilities.
- Confidentiality: Adherence to strict confidentiality guidelines and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
- Stakeholder management: Skill in building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including colleagues, clients, and business partners.

KPIs should align with the targeted objectives and responsibilities of the executive assistant job descriptions in an organization. It's important to set specific targets and update these KPIs regularly to ensure relevance.

Executive Assistants need a combination of education, skills, and experience. While a high-school diploma is the minimum requirement, having an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field can be helpful. Previous administrative experience, especially supporting executives, is beneficial. Proficiency in office software and strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are all key must-haves. Adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to handle confidential information are vital as an Executive Assistant.

Executive assistants and administrative assistants are both crucial roles within an organization's administrative structure, but they have distinct differences in terms of responsibilities, scope, and level of support provided.

Executive assistants provide comprehensive support to high-level executives, engaging in strategic tasks, decision-making, and stakeholder management. They have a higher level of autonomy and handle complex responsibilities. In contrast, administrative assistants support multiple staff members and departments, focusing on routine tasks and following established procedures. They have less decision-making authority and engage in more internal communication. Executive assistants require more experience and advanced skills, while administrative assistants can enter the role with less experience, focusing on developing foundational administrative skills.