ES GLOBAL 2025

Corinne Hoisington is a full-time professor of Information Systems Technology at Central Virginia Community College in Lynchburg, Virginia, with more than 30 years of teaching experience. Corinne travels over 250,000 miles a year delivering keynote addresses and training for organisations such as the Microsoft Corporation, Microsoft Canada International Events, Cengage Learning, ByteSpeed, National Geographic Abu Dhabi, Capital One International Bank, JLab, Executive LIVE in London and Johannesburg, and the international South by Southwest (SXSW) event in Austin, Texas.  

Professor Hoisington is the recipient of the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional award in Computer Programming. She has authored over 30 textbooks with Cengage Learning/National Geographic on topics such as Outlook 365, Office 365, Microsoft Windows, Android Boot Camp Java, Technology Now, and Visual Basic.  

Corinne is a distinguished thought leader, esteemed professor, and sought-after corporate trainer in the dynamic domains of Artificial Intelligence (AI), ChatGPT technology, Microsoft 365, and Admin Events. With a profound passion for technology and education, Professor Hoisington has become a guiding light in these rapidly evolving fields. 

The Right AI Tool for Every Administrative Challenge

Get ready for the most electrifying hour of your professional life! This isn’t just a workshop; it’s a high-octane journey into the future of administrative excellence, where you’ll transform from a traditional administrator into an AI-powered strategic powerhouse. Picture yourself diving deep into the world’s most cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools, learning how to wield technologies like Claude’s razor-sharp communication skills, Perplexity’s lightning-fast research capabilities, Gemini’s adaptive intelligence, Canva’s design magic, and Sora’s storytelling wizardry. You’ll move beyond simply using tools to become a master strategist who can anticipate challenges before they arise, solve complex problems in seconds, and deliver extraordinary value that will make you absolutely indispensable to your organization. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Strategic AI Tool Mapping: Master the art of precisely matching the right AI tool to specific administrative challenges, enabling you to dramatically reduce task completion time and increase organizational efficiency by up to 75%. 

• Ethical AI Mastery and Productivity Integration: Learn to navigate the intricate landscape of AI implementation with confidence, understanding not just how to use these powerful tools, but how to integrate them ethically and strategically into your daily administrative workflow. 

• Advanced Problem-Solving and Innovation Acceleration: Develop a revolutionary mindset that positions you as an indispensable strategic partner in your organization. 

When it comes to career and professional development, Marie Herman, CAP, OM, ACS, MOSM knows how to take you from where you are, to where you want to be.

As the owner of MRH Enterprises LLC, Marie helps office professionals to advance their careers through certification and education.

Prior to launching her incredibly successful training business, Marie supported the Chief Technology Officer of the Fermi National Accelerator Lab and Chairman Emeritus of ServiceMaster.

Marie, an author, mentor and subject matter expert, holds multiple certifications and can help you become better trained as well.

Her articles in Executive Support magazine have proven perennially popular. She has more than two decades of experience as an administrative professional and efficiency consultant.

Marie teaches webinars and seminars on various technology and professional development topics and also provides highly-respected online certification study groups for the Microsoft Office Specialist and Certified Administrative Professional exams.

Create a Career Development Program for Yourself

Where do you want to be in five years? We all dread that question in a job interview, but it’s actually one of the most important questions you can answer for yourself.  

Join us as we discuss how to put together a career development plan for yourself. From spending time pondering your career path options to creating a solid action plan to implement the steps you need to take; you will find that moving forward with focus and intention can make your dream career into a reality.  

How would your life be different if you were working in your ideal position? 

Learning Outcomes:

Participants will learn… 

• What is a career development plan? 

• Why would I want to have one? 

• How do I put one together? 

• What kind of information should it have? 

• How often should Irevisit it? 

• What if I don’t know where to start? 

Founder and Principal Consultant, The Admin Mindset

Nekeisha F. Nelson is the Founder and Principal Consultant at The Admin Mindset, launched in June 2020.

As a seasoned administrative professional with 20 years in the field, she has extensive experience in a range of administrative functions, specifically in the areas of office administration, records management, meeting and event planning, scheduling/calendar management and customer relations. As such, her knowledge and skills have allowed her to work with companies in both the private and public sectors of business and education.

Nekeisha holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (First Class Honours) from the University of Hertfordshire and is trained in Protocol and Business Etiquette.

Passionate about her profession, Nekeisha has devoted her time and abilities to contribute to, and be an advocate for, the professional growth of both entry level and experienced administrative professionals. The development of her workshop programmes, which cover topics on customer service, business etiquette, office administration amongst others, are all aimed at improving the mindset of professionals desirous of progressing in their careers.

Nekeisha is a member of the National Association of Administrative Professionals of Trinidad and Tobago and attends local and international conferences and webinars as part of her journey in lifelong learning.

From Support to Strategy: Developing Business Partnerships That Empower Your Future

Business partnerships are essential for career growth and organisational success. This session will equip administrative professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to build, maintain and leverage strong professional relationships.  

Participants will gain insights into the strategies required to position themselves as strategic partners within their organisations, enhance their professional influence and contribute to meaningful business outcomes. It is designed to provide administrative professionals with practical strategies for enhancing their professional relationships and positioning themselves as indispensable strategic partners. It will explore the critical role of business partnerships in career advancement and organisational growth, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights that can be immediately applied to their roles. 

Learning Outcomes:

After completing this session, participants will be able to…

• Define the concept of strategic business partnerships and explain their importance for administrative professionals. 

• Identify key stakeholders within their organisation and externally who can contribute to professional growth and organisational efficiency. 

• Apply best practices for building credibility and trust to position themselves as valuable strategic partners. 

• Utilize effective communication techniques to foster transparency, alignment and collaboration within partnerships. 

• Demonstrate networking and relationship management skills to expand professional connections and leverage new opportunities. 

• Implement strategies for maintaining long-term partnerships by adding continuous value and addressing conflicts professionally. 

• Take immediate action to develop and sustain business relationships that will elevate their role and empower their future. 

Dr Denniston bridges the connection between personal well-being and professional success for elite leaders and their teams.  

She delivers custom solutions for burnout and stress and provides cohesive habit-training strategies that maximize vitality, productivity, and resilience. 

Her Wellness Amplifier Performance Program is sourced from 25 years of private practice and from working with companies from small start-ups to global giants like Microsoft.  

As a keynote speaker and coach, Dr Denniston motivates audiences covering topics from health and wellness to stress and resilience.  

She is the author of Three Day Reset and a regular contributor to several online wellness publications such as Thrive Global and Medium. 

THE BADASS LIST – 30 Minutes to Confidence and Clarity

We often forget just how extraordinary we are—but not today! In this energizing and empowering session, you’ll create your “Badass List”: a collection of 25 things you’re great at across all areas of your life. This isn’t just a list; it’s your go-to reminder of your strengths, achievements, and brilliance for those days when self-doubt creeps in. 

Here’s how it works: 

• Free Writing: Spend five minutes uncovering your strengths, talents, and accomplishments without judgment. 

• Deep Dive: Now you are warmed up! Let’s go deeper with some special prompts to tease out your “greatest hits.”  

• Take It with You: Finish the session with a personalized “Badass List” to lift you up whenever you feel off your game. 

Whether you fall in the “I need a reminder of my awesomeness” category or have all your greatness resting and ready on the tip of your tongue, this session will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to take on whatever comes your way. Remember: You are far more capable, talented, and downright badass than you realize!

Learning Outcomes

This session is highly interactive and energetic.

The intention is to complete the session with a review-ready “Badass List” the attendees can add to “Notes” in their phone for easy reference.

Regular reflection of the list helps amplify confidence, build resilience (“I can do hard things.”), and remind participants how far they have already come!  

Becky Kaapuni is a fierce advocate for Executive Assistants and leader of the EA revolution. She has spent over two decades masterfully navigating the C-suite at powerhouse companies including Salesforce, Twitter, and Goldman Sachs. Her mission: to unlock the vast untapped potential within every EA, empowering them to rise up, claim their worth, and become the CEOs of their own lives. Through the EA Social Club and her book, The Unstoppable EA, she’s transforming how EAs see themselves. With her dynamic community, mentoring, and advocacy, Becky ignites Executive Assistants to reshape not just their own futures, but the entire profession.

The Unstoppable EA

Join us for a powerful, unfiltered session with Becky Kaapuni, author of The Unstoppable EA, founder of the EA Social Club, and EA to top executives at Twitter and Salesforce. 

In this inspiring conversation with Lucy Brazier, Becky shares how authenticity, resilience, and radical self-worth have defined her journey – and how they can define yours, too. From navigating high-pressure executive roles to overcoming addiction and building a thriving community for EAs, Becky’s story is one of transformation, truth, and unapologetic ownership of power.

Learning Outcomes

• What it actually takes to thrive at the top 

• Building a career rooted in worth, not just service 

• Turning personal challenges into professional fuel 

• Why connection, not competition, is the future of the EA profession 

Glynis E. Devine is the solutionist organizations hire to take their female leaders to the next level.  She is the President and Chief Empowerment Officer (CEO) of She-Suite Leaders, an organization of solutionists dedicated to getting more women into C-Suite roles. Glynis works with executives to effect epic positive change and equip them to be more valuable to all stakeholders.   

Organizations hire Glynis so they can:

• attract and retain TOP talent 
• optimize performance
• grow exponentially – and sustainably 

Drawing on her experience as a Senior Sales Director in a multinational cosmetics organization, she led her team to the top 3% in Canada for more than 25 years. She has personally sold more than a half million dollars worth of lipstick placing her in the top 10 in Canada, twice, out of a sales force of 30,000.   

Glynis

• is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) a designation held by fewer than 900 speakers worldwide.
• trains female ‘high potential’ leaders in Saudi Arabia for Vision 2030
• served on the National Board of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers
• presents in person and online, in English and French. 
• leads the Your Soul Journey women’s empowerment retreat. 

SQUEEZE THE DAY!

Are you squeezing the BEST out of life? Or do you sometimes feel like you’re having the life squeezed out of you? 

As executive support, you wear a lot of hats that can include; employee, colleague, leader, parent, adult child, sibling, spouse, volunteer, coach, sponsor, manager, mentor… and the list goes on. 

We are SO good at transforming into who and what the job or role needs – we’re master chameleons. The downside of this art is that we can sometimes lose ourselves, who we are, and what matters to us. 

In ‘Squeeze the Day!’, you’ll be provoked to ask: 

• When is it my turn? 

• What matters most to me? 

• What do I say ‘no’ to? 

• How do I begin? 

• How can I have more without doing more? 

This is a ‘feel-good’ session that’s jam-packed with tips, tools, and strategies that you can implement immediately! 

Learning Outcomes

Participants will walk away…

• empowered to determine what feeds your energy, initiative, and drive 

• confident to identify the roles & tasks that drain your energy, initiative, & drive 

• equipped to leverage the strengths that foster living a life with more! 

Hallie Warner is the co-founder and owner of The Founder & The Force Multiplier and served as Chief of Staff for over 13 years to serial entrepreneur, Adam Hergenrother. Hallie also co-authored The Founder & The Force Multiplier: How Entrepreneurs and Executive Assistants Achieve More Together and The 200% Life: Your Guide to Spiritual Growth & Business Success Without Meditating on a Mountaintop.  

After years of providing executive support, strategic counsel to internal and external stakeholders, and leading special projects focused on the growth of the organization, Hallie started her own coaching and consulting company in 2024 and runs that business alongside The Founder & The Force Multiplier.  

The Founder & The Force Multiplier was created to help leaders and Force Multipliers (AKA: Executive Assistants, Chiefs of Staff) find the right strategic partner, enhance their communication, navigate change, grow companies and careers, and lead better together. The Founder & The Force Multiplier’s book, coaching, and courses are designed from over 15 years of real-world leadership, business-building, and strategic partnership experience to empower working relationships and elevate companies and careers. 

In her free time, you will likely find Hallie either reading or making a list. She lives in Vermont with her husband, Bill, and their dogs, Enzo and Stella.  

Building Presence and Influence in the EA Role

In a world where the loudest voices often get the most recognition, Executive Assistants can’t afford to stay behind the scenes. This 45-minute session is designed to help you step into the spotlight – strategically and unapologetically.  

We’ll explore how to embrace self-advocacy, ask boldly for what you want, and communicate your wins without feeling awkward or self-promotional. You’ll walk away with actionable tools to build your visibility strategy, grow your social capital, and make sure your contributions are seen, heard, and valued. Whether you’re looking to grow your influence within your team or position yourself for your next opportunity, this session will help you own your impact and lead from wherever you are. 

Learning Outcomes

In this session, we will cover:  

• Discover what visibility really means for an EA and why it’s essential to your career growth. 

• Learn how to create and implement a personalized visibility strategy. 

• Explore the difference between courage and confidence, and how to develop both. 

• Practice self-advocacy and learn to ask for what you want (shamelessly). 

• Build social capital and influence without overextending yourself. 

Founder of Practically Perfect PA and The EA Campus

Nicky Christmas is the Founder and Editor of Practically Perfect PA (PPPA), which she launched whilst working full-time as an Executive Assistant to the COO and CFO of a global insurance organisation.  What started as a creative outlet for her quickly turned into a place Assistants came to find advice, guidance and community.  Nicky was thrilled by how quickly the community grew and in 2013 she was able to take PPPA from a side-hustle to a full-time business that supported her growing family. In 2015 PPPA held its first event and has been training Assistants through physical events and online courses ever since.  PPPA continues to grow and evolve, just like the Assistants who make up the PPPA tribe!

The ABIDE Model: Creating an Effective Assistant /Executive Partnership

The relationship between an Assistant and their executive is one of the most important, and nuanced, partnerships in any organisation. At the heart of this relationship lies trust, clarity, empathy, and consistently strong communication. 

In this practical and empowering session Nicky Christmas, Founder of The EA Campus, introduces the A.B.I.D.E. Model – a powerful framework designed to help Assistants strengthen collaboration and streamline communication with their executives. Whether you’re looking to deepen your existing partnership or establish better workflows, this model offers a clear path forward. 

Nicky will guide you through each step of the model, sharing relatable examples, actionable strategies, and honest reflections from her own career. 

By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with a new mindset, a practical toolkit, and the confidence to build a more impactful and fulfilling partnership with your Executive. 

Learning Outcomes

You’ll learn how to… 

• Anticipate your executive’s needs with confidence and precision 

• Step out of reactive mode and take a proactive approach 

• Initiate open, ongoing communication that prevents misunderstandings 

• Master the art of mutual delegation to avoid burnout 

• Foster a collaborative, supportive dynamic through positive reinforcement 

International Speaker | Storyteller | Humorist | Writer

Kemetia MK Foley is a humorist, storyteller, writer, and trainer. She is fierce, funny, and phenomenal – energetically delivering outstanding professional development courses since 2007. She has presented hundreds of training sessions and travelled internationally providing thoughtful perspectives and approaches to customer service, storytelling, and marketing. Students and delegates frequently comment on how much they love her genuine and humorous teaching approach, sharing stories from her own experiences in the workplace.

The start of the Covid-19 pandemic allowed her to pursue her other passion, writing. During that time, she co-authored six books alongside her ‘Going Beyond the Illusion’ coaches’ group.

Her recent adventures have been focused on storytelling for True Tales Live NH, Northeast Storytelling, and Long Story Short. In July and November of 2022, she jumped on stage to do live stand-up comedy performances.

Kemetia earned her Bachelor of Science, Business Administration from the University of Mary Washington. She will gladly profess to anyone her love of coffee, marching bands, and ice hockey. Kemetia and her husband Brian (of 25+ years!) make their home in the stunningly beautiful village of York, Maine with their cute, but oh-so-hostile cat, Fiona.

Pithy and Professional: Skills to Get Your Story Heard

If you’ve ever struggled to tell people what you do or what you need (and who hasn’t?), this session is for you. This session will help you identify how to craft your story, make it clear and succinct, and provide resources to help you shine when put on the spot. Participants will build confidence in sharing the stories that matter and cultivate listener investment in the outcome. 

Learning Outcomes

• Learn about story types, and discover the structure of personal storytelling 

• Design an impact introduction: Introduce yourself in a way that highlights the real impact of what you do in a few minutes 

• Determine how to spark interest and engagement when someone asks, ‘What do you do?’”

• Establish methods for sharing stories confidently 

Ayanna Castro is a global speaker, life coach and author with expertise in empowering others realize their potential and overcome self-imposed obstacles in pursuit of their goals. As the Founder and Chief Maven of Work Your Package®, her mission is to encourage and equip others to enhance what they already have to become the “total package” and be extraordinary. 

Known for her perfect balance of guidance, support, and hard truths, she is the “go-to” person for those embarking on new ventures or have lost clarity on their goals. As a speaker, Ayanna delights and engages audiences with her inspiring and transparent message of perseverance and “working their package.”   

Ayanna has degrees in Deviant Behavior and Social Control and Business Administration. She is also a Society of Human Resources Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP), and certified Master Life Coach. She is also certified in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with over 25 years of professional experience in city government, law, public relations, private equity and media. She is currently the Program Manager of Employee Engagement for one of the country’s largest water utilities and is responsible for enterprise-wide programs to include DEIB, recognition, appreciation and corporate philanthropic giving.  

She has also authored three books, “Work Your Package – An Eight-Week Guide to Discovering and Developing Your True Purpose”, “Lessons from Wednesday” and “Work Your Package – A Guide to Being the Total Package”. 

Unlocking Innovation: Mastering Creative Problem Solving for Smarter Solutions

Out-of-the-box thinking methods become an essential skill as we are tasked with more responsibility and fewer resources. 

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a way of using creativity to develop new ideas and solutions. More than just brainstorming, the process is based on separating divergent and convergent thinking styles so that you can focus on creating at the first stage and evaluating at the second stage. 

Learning Outcomes:

In this session, attendees will learn how to flex and grow their creative muscles, enabling them to face challenges head-on by learning to: 

• Clarify the problem
• Generate ideas
• Develop solutions
• Plan for action

International Speaker | Trainer | Author

International speaker, trainer and author Sandy Geroux, M.S. has nearly 20 years of administrative experience, plus 20 years of business/leadership experience. Since 2000, she has conducted over 250 motivational keynotes, training programs and workshops for 25,000+ administrative professionals, helping them become “invaluable,” create career opportunities and achieve their personal and professional dreams.

Author of three books, Sandy is a contributor to business publications, including Entrepreneur, ASAP, and Executive Support magazine. She is also the recipient of sales, professional and community service awards.  She has served as President and Speakers’ Academy Dean for the National Speakers Association’s Central Florida Chapter and Chairperson and board member for two Central Florida children’s charities.

Sandy also sings! She has performed in stage productions and sung the National Anthem at sports venues, including Daytona International Speedway.  In the technology arena, she was a Business Systems Consultant, owned a desktop publishing company and has taught hands-on computer classes.  Sandy combines corporate, entrepreneurial, entertainment and training experience and her inspiring programs overflow with practical ideas and tips to help attendees succeed. Her dynamic speaking style has been described as enthusiastic, energetic and extremely motivating!

Skills That Every Business Writer Should Have

Each year, the average business loses time and money clarifying, correcting and recovering from faulty communications. Therefore, effective business communication is a vitally important factor in any organization’s success. From being clear so people can act on your requests to ensuring that your information and instructions (and those of your executive) are organized, logical and accurate, to enhancing the credibility of your organization and your leaders, if you’ve ever written or edited important communications, you know how difficult this task can be. 

Whether you are a new or experienced writer, this program will teach you the essential skills necessary to create business communications that convey the desired message every time. Through a series of examples and case studies, Sandy will share essential tips that help business writers get their message across while building trust and credibility with their readers.

Learning Outcomes: 

After this program, attendees will: 

• Know the top 6 skills that every business writer should possess. 
• Understand the importance of consistency and structure in business communications. 
• Learn how to ensure that they say what they mean and mean what they say. 
• Obtain valuable resources to help them create more credibility and trust through their writing. 

Abigail Barnes is the founder and CEO of Success by Design Training, an award-winning entrepreneur, author, speaker, and corporate trainer on time management and productive wellbeing. She is a qualified coach, creator of the renowned 888 Formula and host of The Time Management Podcast. 

Success by Design Training is on a mission to teach 1 million people how to Become the Productive Professional using The 888 Formula by 2025.  

Abigail holds a BA Hons Degree in Business & Marketing Management, a Professional Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing, DipM ACIM, a certificate in Neuroscience Professional Development, and is a qualified coach. 

Why Being Busy is Killing Your Career Development – And What to Do About It

For years, being busy has been worn like a badge of honour; if you are busy, you must be important. More recently, it’s been recognised for what it masks: a lack of strategy.  

In this practical session, you’ll learn how to shift from doing to driving value. You’ll understand the science behind your “busyness addiction,” how to prioritise like a leader, and how to generate real career-boosting data from your output. You’ll also learn how to protect your time and wellbeing using the powerful 888 Formula. 

Learning Outcomes:

• The Science of Busyness – Why your brain resists change (and how to work with it) 

• Efficiency vs. Effectiveness – Getting strategic with your to-do list 

• Prioritise Like an Executive – Applying the Eisenhower Matrix to refocus 

• Measure What Matters – Creating data that showcases your strategic value 

• The 888 Formula – A simple framework to balance your productivity & wellbeing 

Helen Monument inspires and encourages Assistants to be the best they can be, by sharing 40 years of experience as a management support professional in international companies in many roles from Receptionist to Secretary to Office Manager and Business Support Team Leader, so she understands the profession inside out. 

At Monumental Assistance, Helen provides training and coaching to Assistants at all levels and is a stimulating, knowledgeable and entertaining conference speaker. She is passionate about giving back to the profession that created so many wonderful opportunities for her by ‘paying it forward’, helping others to become monumental Assistants. She offers a variety of training topics which can be tailor-made to an individual, teams, organization or event. 

Helen is also Chair of the World Administrators Alliance, a non-profit association representing Administrative Associations, Networks and industry stakeholders globally. Its aims are to guide, develop, influence and elevate the administrative profession, creating a community where administrative professionals everywhere can speak with one voice. The WA-Alliance produced the Global Skills Matrix, the award-winning, career development framework based on research from over 3000 administrative professionals in 61 countries.  

British-born Helen lives in The Netherlands and spends her free time reading, walking and enjoying culinary delights served up by her husband Robert. 

The Assistant’s Edge – Lead Boldly From Where You Are

In this powerful and practical session, Helen Monument will show how to embrace leadership in its truest form—through influence, initiative, and intentional action. Leadership is not about having a title; it’s about how you show up, the decisions you make, and the impact you create every day. 

In this session, you will explore the unique leadership edge you already possess and learn how to use it to elevate your role, your confidence, and your contribution to the business. Through the lens of the four pillars of bold leadership, you’ll uncover how to lead from within, strengthen professional presence, and break through limiting beliefs. 

With a blend of inspiration and actionable tools, Helen will empower you to reframe your identity from supporting to leading. 

You will leave with fresh insights, practical strategies, and a personal leadership commitment you can implement immediately – no permission or promotion required. 

Whether you’re new to the role or a seasoned professional, this session will challenge, encourage, and equip you to lead boldly from exactly where you are. 

Learning Outcomes

• Recognize and activate your unique leadership potential as an Executive Assistant regardless of your job title. 

• Apply the four pillars of bold leadership – to increase your visibility, influence and impact in your role. 

• Create a personal leadership commitment statement to guide intentional growth and confident action beyond the session. 

Patrick S. Woods is an international trainer and highly experienced senior executive who specializes in procurement, supply chain management and executive leadership training. 

Patrick has had the phenomenal opportunity to work with over 300 companies in the U.S., Asia, the Netherlands, the Middle East, Africa, India and Central America. Now, in collaboration with  Missouri State University (MSU), he is conducting professional development training for key corporations, including “Negotiations in the 21st Century.”     

Patrick is also excited to be working with BMTG as a facilitator of the ACEA® program.   He divides his time between Dallas, Texas, USA  and Costa Rica. 

Understanding Supply Management: The Key to Effective Procurement for EAs

Understanding the difference between Procurement and Supply Management is not just academic;  it’s a practical and often overlooked way in which Executive Assistants can contribute more strategically within their organizations.  While EAs may not lead procurement negotiations or supplier selection, they are frequently involved in supporting procurement activity within their departments.   

By understanding how Procurement (as a process) differs from Supply Management (as a broader strategic function), EAs can better align their support with organizational goals, anticipate risks, and help ensure more effective and efficient outcomes.    

This session will cover:  

• The true nature of procurement   

• The components of supply management   

• The main differences between the two 

The growing strategic significance of Supply Management, including risk management, supplier and customer collaboration, and sustainable procurement.  This is a little-recognized but increasingly important area where EAs can add real value.   

You’ll leave with practical insights into how the industry has evolved from tactical buying to strategic value creation — and how you can apply that thinking in your own multifaceted role.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the transactional nature of procurement 

• Transition to the strategic nature of Supply Management, including the 5:1 financial “bang for the buck.” 

• Differentiate and apply collaboration and integration, both with outside suppliers and internal stakeholders 

• Embrace the TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More) approach to rolling out Supply Management initiatives 

• Participate in risk management of the supply chain involving elimination, reduction or mitigation. 

• Implement sustainable procurement to both minimize the carbon footprint and achieve corporate goals  

Nicole Bearne has been at the forefront of Formula 1 motor racing for over 25 years, winning 9 World Championships with the Brawn Grand Prix and Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 teams. Her extensive motorsport experience includes executive and technical operations, Internal Communications, Employee Experience and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). She is also an Independent Non-Executive Director of Motorsport UK, the governing body of four-wheel motorsport in the UK.  

Nicole now leads The Comms Exchange, leveraging her F1 business experience and academic knowledge to help organizations build high-performing, people-centric cultures. 

She also runs 1-day workshops on Internal & Leadership Communication for EAs, PAs and Business Support professionals.  

Nicole holds a Master’s degree in Organisational Behaviour and a CIPR Diploma in Internal Communication. She is a member of the Institute of Internal Communication, the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (MCIPR) and an Accredited PR Practitioner. Nicole is frequently invited to speak at Internal Communications and Employee Experience conferences in the UK, USA and Europe. 

The Power of Words: Crafting and Delivering Impactful Speeches

At some point, every leader – and every EA – may be called upon to speak in front of a team, a room, or even an entire organisation. Yet, public speaking doesn’t always come naturally. Many leaders aren’t trained speakers, and even the most seasoned professionals can struggle to craft words that truly resonate. 

As Executive Assistants, we’re often the unseen architects of those words – drafting speeches and shaping messages for our leaders to present. We can also help our leaders bring them to life with confidence and authenticity. And in doing so, we also sharpen our own communication skills. 

Whether you already write speeches or want to add a new string to your bow, this session will leave you feeling more equipped to support your leader – or take the mic yourself. 

Learning Outcomes

In this practical session, we’ll explore: 

• The structure and key ingredients of a compelling speech 

• How to craft messages that move people, not just inform them 

• Techniques to help your leader – and yourself – speak with confidence 

• When to stick to a script and when to speak from the heart 

The Modern-Day Assistant: Laura Schwartz Interviews Lucy Brazier OBE

An interview with Lucy Brazier OBE by Laura Schwartz, Professional Speaker, Television Commentator and Author of Eat, Drink and Succeed. Laura has been a frequent headliner for Executive Support Live around the world and was thrilled to sit down with Lucy for this exclusive interview. This intimate conversation is full of tips and tools for every assistant at every stage of their career, you’ll want to watch over and over again!

Learning Outcomes:

Watch as Laura and Lucy discuss the administrative professional community and beyond! 

Pepita Soler is the CEO of Pepita Consultoria, which provides human and organizational development programs to customers in the public, private and educational sectors across North America, Latin America and Europe. 

She is also the Founder of Pepita’s Secretaries Club, the largest educational club for Executive Assistants in Brazil and Latin America, designed to develop people skills, creativity, leadership, multicultural and business skills. 

Pepita Soler is President of the Global Innovation Academy for Executive Assistants, which has delivered numerous training programs, innovation events and international immersion programs, as well as master classes and certifications that have impacted and transformed thousands of Executive Assistants in Brazil and around the world. 

Pepita graduated in organizational psychology and corporate education – specializing in creativity and innovation. She is also a mentor, coach and speaker with international certifications in positive psychology, biocentric education, appreciative conversations, emotional intelligence, leadership development and high-performing teams.  

Pepita is also a member of the Executive Support Magazine Editorial Board and member of WA Alliance, representing Brazil. 

The Extraordinary EA: Thriving in a World of Constant Transformation

In today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape, the Executive Assistant (EA) role demands more than just traditional support skills. This session will equip you with the essential roles, competencies, and skills needed to become an Extraordinary EA who thrives amidst constant change and truly impacts business success. 

We’ll dive into three pivotal roles: 

1) The Connector and Facilitator: Discover how to seamlessly bridge gaps and streamline operations.

This role demands:

* Emotional Intelligence: Navigating complex interpersonal dynamics with empathy and insight. 

* Authentic and Assertive Communication: Building trust and influence through clear, confident, and genuine interactions. 

* Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a cohesive environment where collective goals are achieved efficiently. 

2) The Strategic and Creative Partner: Elevate your contribution beyond administrative tasks to become a true thought partner.

This involves mastering:

* Creativity, Adaptability, and Innovation: Generating fresh ideas and embracing change to find new solutions. 

* Systemic Vision and Strategic Analysis: Understanding the bigger picture and contributing to high-level decision-making. 

* Troubleshooting and Problem Solving: Proactively identifying and resolving challenges with efficiency and foresight. 

3) The Personal Leader and Guardian: Take ownership of your development and impact.

This final role focuses on:

* Proactivity and Personal Management: Taking initiative and managing your responsibilities with autonomy. 

* Time Management, Projects, and Productivity: Optimising your workflow and successfully overseeing initiatives. 

* Learning and Growth Mindset: Embracing continuous learning and seeing challenges as opportunities for development. 

Join us to uncover how these vital areas interconnect, empowering you to not only survive but flourish in a world of constant transformation, becoming an indispensable asset to your executive and organisation. 

Mentor, food campaigner and social entrepreneur, Danny McCubbin has dedicated his career to promoting food-focussed social enterprises and helping diverse businesses create social value, with the belief that food has the power to transform lives. While Danny played a crucial role in Jamie Oliver’s School Dinners programme and the Jamie Oliver Fifteen apprenticeship scheme that helped disadvantaged young people find a career in food, he is also the founder of the UK San Patrignano Association and serves as its UK ambassador. The social enterprise in Italy is one of the world’s most progressive, successful drug rehab communities, helping its young residents overcome addiction through skills including winemaking, food growing and restaurant placements.

Through his work, Danny has created a worldwide network of both small and large social enterprises, sharing ideas and information and consulting on various food-focused projects, as well as fundraising, hosting supper clubs and aiding collaboration between diverse community organisations. Most recently, Danny has been a judge on the Giving Back panel at the well-respected Young British Foodies Awards, been nominated for the Foodism 100 Positive Change Hero, and collaborated on the hugely successful Cook for Syria campaign.

From PA to Purpose: Danny McCubbin on Leadership, Legacy & Community Impact

What does it mean to turn an administrative role into a platform for social change? In this powerful and inspiring interview, Lucy Brazier OBE sits down with Danny McCubbin – former PA to Jamie Oliver and founder of The Good Kitchen in Sicily – to explore the transformative potential of administrative work, purpose-driven leadership, and living in alignment with your values. 
 
Danny shares his journey from temping in London to supporting one of the UK’s most recognisable chefs, and how a deep commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and community laid the groundwork for everything that followed. From the life-changing work of 15 Restaurant to his decision to move to rural Italy and open a community kitchen that rescues food and serves those in need, Danny’s story is a masterclass in courageous reinvention.

You’ll come away with:

• Real-world insights into how Assistants can shape strategy, impact lives, and elevate entire organisations 

• Inspiration for how to align your career with your values 

• Practical reflections on burnout, well-being, and building a life of purpose 

• A renewed sense of how the smallest roles can lead to the biggest legacies 

Passionate, fun and straight-talking, Lucy Chamberlain has become one of the business world’s most popular motivational speakers. Over the course of her Founder journey, Lucy has worked as a TV presenter, awards judge, ICF Accredited coach and award-winning speaker.

With over 20 years of leading industry experience, Lucy founded C&C Search to redefine and elevate both the client and candidates’ recruitment experience.   In April 2020, Lucy launched the C&C Academy, a global training platform specialising in offering CPD-certified qualifications, as well as bespoke, in-house training and keynote speeches for a wide variety of businesses, including WarnerMedia, BlackRock, Sony and Impax Asset Management.

Alongside her fantastic knowledge base, Lucy’s level of experience enables her to give genuine insights into leadership, change and overcoming adversity.

As a speaker, Lucy leaves an audience motivated, empowered and armed with tools to support a life and career that serves the individual better.

From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Have you ever felt like everyone else had it figured out – and you were just pretending? 

This session will take you from experiencing self-doubt and the limiting effects of imposter syndrome to cultivating self-trust, self-recognition, and empowered action. 

We will explore what imposter syndrome is (and what it isn’t), why even the most capable individuals experience it, and how to reframe the inner narrative. We’ll cover practical tools such as evidence-based thinking, reframing failure, and building a personal ‘proof portfolio’ of successes and strengths.

The session will balance insight and application, combining thought-provoking discussions, relatable examples, and easy-to-implement strategies. By the end of the session, you will be able to shed feeling like an “imposter” to truly embracing your place in the world with greater confidence and clarity. 

Learning Outcomes:

Understand the nature of imposter syndrome – Identify what imposter syndrome is (and isn’t), why it occurs, and recognise its impact on even high-achieving individuals. 

Develop practical tools for self-confidence – Learn and apply strategies such as evidence-based thinking, reframing failure, and building a personal ‘proof portfolio’ to combat self-doubt. 

Build lasting self-trust and clarity – Shift from feeling like an imposter to embracing your achievements and capabilities with increased confidence and empowered action. 

Speaking Up: Leah McCann on Surviving Workplace Bullying and Reclaiming Her Voice

Leah McCann is an experienced Personal Assistant from New Zealand who found herself at the centre of a high-profile court case after enduring sustained bullying in the workplace. In this deeply personal interview, Leah sits down with Lucy Brazier OBE to share her story – not for sympathy, but to help other assistants suffering in silence. 
 
Leah’s decision to speak up took immense courage. Her case has already sparked national conversation around toxic workplace culture, power dynamics, and the protections (or lack thereof) available to support staff. Now, she shares the emotional and professional toll, the hard-earned lessons, and the turning point that led her to take action. 
 
This conversation is not easy, but it’s essential. 

You’ll hear: 

• What bullying in the workplace can look like behind closed doors 

• The psychological impact on administrative professionals who often feel isolated or voiceless 

• The barriers to reporting, and why so many suffer in silence 

• How Leah found her strength, sought justice, and is rebuilding her career on her own terms 

Whether you’re experiencing something similar or supporting someone who is, Leah’s story is a powerful reminder: You are not alone. And it is possible to reclaim your voice.