As your business grows, the need for support at the top becomes critical. But when you’re choosing between a Chief of Staff and an Executive Assistant, understanding their unique roles is essential.
Key Differences Between a CoS and an EA
| Aspect | Chief of Staff | Executive Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Work | Strategic initiatives, project leadership, team alignment. | Administrative tasks, scheduling, meeting support. |
| Decision-Making | Makes high-level decisions and provides insights. | Supports decision-making but doesn’t directly decide. |
| Focus | Big-picture strategy and execution. | Day-to-day administrative efficiency. |
| Business Impact | Drives growth, efficiency, and alignment. | Keeps operations running smoothly. |
Who Do You Need?
- Choose a Chief of Staff if you’re scaling rapidly, need operational alignment, or want a partner to take ownership of strategic initiatives.
- Choose an Executive Assistant if you need help managing your calendar, scheduling meetings, or organizing your workload.
For many businesses, the choice isn’t either/or—it’s both. An EA manages the details, while a CoS drives strategy and execution.
