The Executive Support & Office Leadership Symposium

today August 12, 2026my_locationRadisson Blu Gautrain Hotel


D H M S
Background

The Executive Support & Office Leadership Summit is a premier gathering designed specifically for Personal Assistants, Secretaries, and Office Managers who aspire to elevate their professional influence and mastery in today’s dynamic workplace. This two-day event blends modern strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and time-tested administrative best practices to equip attendees with the skills, insights, and confidence needed to thrive as indispensable strategic partners in their organisations.

Participants will explore a unique mix of topics that span advanced executive support, office leadership, digital transformation, and personal effectiveness. From mastering AI and automation tools to refining stakeholder management, delegates will leave with practical skills they can immediately apply to enhance productivity, optimise processes, and add measurable value to the executives and teams they support. The summit provides a platform to engage with thought leaders, network with peers, and access actionable frameworks for career growth and organisational impact.

Benefits of Attending

  1. Elevate Your Strategic Impact:
    This summit will guide attendees on how to move beyond traditional administrative tasks and position themselves as strategic business partners. Learn to anticipate executive needs, support decision-making, and contribute to organisational objectives with confidence and professionalism.
  2. Master Digital Tools & Smart Workflows:
    Delegates will gain hands-on knowledge of AI, automation platforms, and digital collaboration tools that streamline everyday tasks, improve efficiency, and enhance organisational productivity. From advanced calendar management to workflow optimisation, the event ensures that attendees are equipped to work smarter, not harder.
  3. Strengthen Leadership & Influence:
    Through sessions on workplace influence, conflict resolution, and cross-departmental collaboration, attendees will develop leadership skills that extend beyond their official role. Learn to lead without a title, foster teamwork, and navigate complex organisational dynamics effectively.
  4. Boost Professional Confidence & Personal Brand:
    The summit also focuses on personal development, including building professional presence, emotional intelligence, and resilience. Attendees will learn to cultivate a strong personal brand, improve communication, and demonstrate executive-level professionalism that opens doors to growth and recognition.
  5. Networking & Peer Learning:
    With opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, senior executives, and industry experts, participants can exchange insights, explore challenges, and discover best practices from across different sectors. These connections foster collaboration and provide a community of support that extends beyond the event.

Who Should Attend

The Executive Support & Office Leadership Summit is designed for a wide range of professionals who play pivotal roles in ensuring organisational success:

  • Personal Assistants seeking to enhance strategic influence and expand their skill set beyond traditional administrative responsibilities.
  • Secretaries aiming to modernise their approach, adopt digital solutions, and strengthen executive-level support capabilities.
  • Office Managers looking to optimise operations, lead teams effectively, and drive process improvements within their organisations.
  • Executive Coordinators and Administrative Professionals who aspire to become key contributors to business decision-making.
  • Anyone supporting senior leadership and responsible for streamlining communication, workflows, and operational excellence.

Location
Program
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Welcome Speech & Event Opening

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Leadership, Influence & Workplace Collaboration

Thumbnail Sharon Wood

These sessions explore how Personal Assistants, Secretaries, and Office Managers can strengthen their leadership impact even without formal titles. Participants will learn how to influence outcomes, guide team dynamics, and drive accountability through credibility and consistency while positioning themselves as trusted advisors. The programme also equips delegates with practical tools for conflict resolution and managing difficult conversations using emotional intelligence and assertive communication. Emphasis is placed on cross-departmental collaboration, building trust, and breaking organisational silos to improve productivity. In addition, the discussion covers coaching and supporting team performance through mentoring, delegation, and constructive feedback while preparing professionals to manage change.

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Networking Lunch Break

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Digital Transformation, AI & Smart Office Productivity

Thumbnail Kutlwano Ngwarati

Session two focuses on strengthening digital capability and efficiency in the modern workplace. Participants explore practical AI and automation tools that improve scheduling, reporting, research and document management while reducing repetitive tasks. The programme also examines effective use of digital collaboration platforms such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace and project management systems to enhance remote teamwork and communication. Emphasis is placed on data management, cybersecurity awareness and protecting confidential organisational information. Delegates also learn how to manage hybrid and virtual meetings professionally while applying process optimisation and workflow automation techniques to streamline administrative operations and improve productivity across organisations today.

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Personal Effectiveness, Resilience & Career Growth

Thumbnail Marjon Meyer

These sessions explore practical strategies to help professionals manage demanding administrative roles while strengthening long-term career growth. Delegates will learn effective time, energy, and stress management techniques, including prioritisation frameworks, burnout prevention, and structured systems that reduce overwhelm in high-pressure environments. The programme also focuses on developing emotional intelligence, professional confidence, and stronger workplace relationships to enhance communication with executives and colleagues. In addition, participants will examine career pathways within administrative and office management, including certifications, continuous learning, and networking opportunities. The discussion further highlights building a strong personal brand and maintaining sustainable performance through healthy work-life integration and balance.

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Networking Lunch Break

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Strategic Business Partnership & Executive Support Excellence

Thumbnail Charles Cotter, PhD

This session explores how Personal Assistants, Secretaries, and Office Managers can transition from traditional administrative support roles into strategic business partners by anticipating executive needs, aligning daily responsibilities with organisational objectives, and contributing to decision-making processes. Participants will refine executive communication and stakeholder management skills, learning professional correspondence, diplomatic engagement, confidentiality management, and how to represent leadership with credibility and discretion. The discussion will also cover advanced calendar and priority management, focusing on managing complex schedules, protecting executive time, and navigating high-pressure environments. In addition, delegates will strengthen business acumen through financial literacy, report interpretation, and executive briefing preparation, while also developing professional presence, executive etiquette, and personal branding to enhance influence and career growth.


Details
Begin August 12, 2026 H 08:00
End August 13, 2026 H 15:30
Location Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel
Address Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg
Phone +27 (11) 286 1000


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