The Executive Support Market in 2026: What Leaders Need to Know Before Hiring

Executive support has become business-critical

For many founders, CEOs and C-suite executives, the role of an Executive Assistant has never been more important, or more difficult to recruit.

Over the past few years, Leaman Consulting has seen a significant shift in the executive support market. The traditional perception of an Executive Assistant as someone who simply manages diaries and coordinates meetings has evolved. Today’s Executive Assistants are strategic business partners who help leaders operate more efficiently, make better decisions and protect their most valuable asset: time.

As a specialist Executive Support recruiter, Emma Moran has seen first-hand how the market continues to evolve, and why organisations need to rethink both how they hire and what they expect from exceptional support professionals.

Demand continues to outpace supply

Exceptional Executive Assistants remain in high demand, particularly those who have supported founders, private equity-backed businesses, high-growth companies and C-suite executives.

The strongest candidates are rarely actively looking for a new role. Many are settled, trusted and approached discreetly through specialist recruiters and professional networks. This means employers relying solely on job adverts often miss out on the very best talent.

A proactive, targeted search is increasingly becoming the most effective way to secure experienced Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants, Founder’s Associates and Chief of Staff professionals.

The role has become increasingly strategic

The modern Executive Assistant is far more than an administrative professional. Many now oversee projects, manage internal communications, coordinate board activity, support investor relations, organise company-wide initiatives and act as a trusted gatekeeper for senior leadership.

The very best Executive Assistants do not simply respond to requests. They anticipate them. They understand business priorities, identify problems before they arise and create the space leaders need to focus on growth.

This strategic shift means employers need to brief roles differently. A vague request for someone to “manage the diary” rarely reflects the true value or complexity of the appointment.

Flexibility remains a deciding factor

While many organisations have introduced more office-based working, flexibility continues to be a significant factor for candidates.

Experienced Executive Assistants recognise the value of face-to-face collaboration, particularly in high-trust senior support roles. They also appreciate employers who offer trust, autonomy and a sensible approach to hybrid working.

Companies with very inflexible working arrangements may find their talent pool considerably reduced, especially when competing for candidates who already have strong roles and trusted relationships elsewhere.

Culture and chemistry matter more than ever

Salary is important, but it is rarely the only deciding factor. Executive Assistants are looking for leaders they genuinely enjoy supporting. They want to work within businesses where they feel trusted, respected and included.

The relationship between an executive and their assistant is one of the closest professional partnerships within any organisation. Personality fit, communication style and shared values are often just as important as technical skills.

A candidate may have the right experience on paper, but if the working style is wrong, the partnership is unlikely to reach its full potential.

Hiring quickly can make the difference

One of the clearest trends in the Executive Support market is that the strongest candidates move quickly. Lengthy interview processes, delayed feedback or uncertainty around decision-making can result in employers losing exceptional talent to competitors.

This does not mean rushing the process. It means being prepared: defining the brief properly, agreeing the interview stages, communicating promptly and making decisions with confidence when the right candidate is in front of you.

What clients are looking for in 2026

Many clients are no longer seeking someone simply to manage the diary. They are looking for Executive Assistants who can:

• Think commercially and understand business priorities.
• Build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders.
• Manage competing priorities with confidence.
• Exercise sound judgement and protect executive time.
• Improve operational efficiency and bring calm structure.
• Handle confidential information with discretion.
• Support fast-paced founders, CEOs and leadership teams.

These qualities are often developed through experience rather than qualifications alone. The best candidates are usually those who have worked close to senior leaders and understand the pressure, pace and judgement required.

Advice for employers hiring Executive Assistants this year

Before going to market, define the role clearly. Be honest about the leader’s working style, the pace of the business, the level of access and the responsibilities beyond diary and inbox management.

Focus on potential as well as experience. Offer a competitive salary that reflects the strategic nature of the role. Move efficiently through the interview process. Invest in a thorough onboarding programme. Above all, treat your Executive Assistant as a genuine business partner, not simply administrative support.

The organisations that recognise the value of executive support are often the ones that build the strongest, longest-lasting partnerships.

Final thoughts from Emma Moran

An exceptional Executive Assistant does not just save time. They multiply a leader’s effectiveness.

In today’s competitive hiring market, securing outstanding executive support requires a thoughtful approach, a compelling opportunity and access to the right network of talent.

At Leaman Consulting, Emma Moran specialises in recruiting exceptional Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants, Founder’s Associates and Chief of Staff professionals for founders, CEOs and senior leadership teams across the UK. If you are considering your next executive support hire, Leaman Consulting would be delighted to discuss how to find someone who can become an invaluable extension of your business.