The Women Redefining Executive Service
Behind every great leader is someone who makes everything possible. Female EAs have long been the backbone of executive operations; anticipating needs, managing chaos, and holding organisations together, often without the recognition they deserve. Today, we're changing that.
Here are five women who are redefining what it means to be an Executive Assistant — and proving that excellence in service is excellence in leadership.
Andrea Besmehn
A Trusted Right Hand in Global Tech Leadership
Andrea Besmehn serves as Executive Assistant to Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta.
Beyond administrative coordination, she operates as a strategic partner, managing sensitive logistics, executive travel, and high security events.
As an Executive Assistant, she exemplifies the role of modern executive assistants within global leadership circles.
Gusi Tobby Ker
Transforming the EA Profession
Gusi Tobby Ker, widely known as Lady Ker of Impact, has built a reputation for helping Executive Assistants recognize the power of their role.
Over the years, she has trained and coached more than 700 assistants, enabling them to move into higher impact, better paying roles.
Through her School of Service and Girl Hub Africa initiatives, she empowers EAs and transforms them into strategic partners.
One message she consistently shares with EAs is this: skill alone isn’t enough. Learning how to communicate your value and position yourself strategically can open doors to bigger opportunities.
Ann Hiat
Ann Hiatt is a renowned Executive Assistant whose career spans some of the most influential companies in the tech industry. She began her journey supporting Jeff Bezos at Amazon, before going on to work with top executives at Google, including Eric Schmidt and Marissa Mayer.
Through these experiences, Ann developed a deep understanding of leadership, strategy, and executive decision making. She later founded her own CEO advisory consultancy and authored the book Bet on Yourself, where she shares how she transformed her career from executive assistant to trusted advisor.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that excellence in executive service can open doors to extraordinary leadership opportunities
Menekşe Ahbab
Assistant to the Indirect Sales Director – Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Based in Istanbul, Menekşe supports leadership across the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Africa (MEMA) region, coordinating operations and communication for a team spanning 70 countries.
Beyond her role, she is actively shaping the future of the profession. Menekşe co-leads Turkey’s Executive Assistant professional network and has been featured in Exceptional EA Magazine for her contributions to advancing the EA role across the region.
Her work reflects the power of strategic support, global coordination, and leadership through service.
Carla Stefanut
Travel Assistant, Fiera Milano SpA — Milan, Italy
Carla Stefanut is a highly respected executive support professional based in Milan, where she manages complex travel and logistics for senior leadership at Fiera Milano SpA.
Recognized for her exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, Carla was the runner up in Italy’s national “EA of the Year” competition, a testament to her excellence in executive support.
Beyond her work, Carla is also an active member of Italy’s EA/PA professional community, where she contributes to the growth and development of the profession. A true example of excellence in executive service.
These women prove that excellence in service is excellence in leadership. Which story inspires you most? Comment below and share with a woman in executive service who deserves recognition.