Lea Nichols, C-Suite EA & Innovator on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Corporate Executive Support and Operations

Lea Nichols

C-Suite EA & Innovator, Executive Business Partner

Citrus Heights, CA 95610

2Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Ernie Reyes' West Coast World Martial Arts Degree Foothill College Cert Ai Certification Cert Discover the Possibilities of Generative AI Cert Learning Infographic Design Cert Creating Significance: Choosing to Do Our Best Work Cert Creating a Great Place to Work for All Cert Miss Excel’s Top Productivity Hacks Cert Confident Performance: Excelling When It Counts Cert Generative AI Productivity Hacks with Miss Excel Cert Communicating with Executives Cert Event Planning Foundations Cert Administrative Professional Foundations

Her Story

About Lea

Lea Nichols is a highly accomplished Executive Assistant and strategic business partner with over 20 years of experience supporting top-level executives in global organizations. Most recently, she served at Intel Corporation for over 13 years, where she excelled in managing complex calendars, coordinating cross-functional initiatives, and maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism. Lea’s innovative mindset led her to author seven patent disclosures during her tenure, showcasing her ability to contribute beyond traditional administrative roles. Her expertise with tools like Microsoft 365, SAP, CRM, and Slack has allowed her to streamline workflows and improve operational efficiency across teams. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was honored with Intel’s Admin of the Year award in 2024.

Beyond her corporate achievements, Lea is deeply committed to community service and has been a dedicated volunteer with the Homeless Animals Lifeline Organization (H.A.L.O.) since 2010. She currently serves on their Board of Directors as Treasurer, applying her financial and operational skills to help the nonprofit thrive. Known for her loyalty, adaptability, and proactive approach, Lea is passionate about supporting leaders, fostering teamwork, and driving meaningful impact both in her professional roles and volunteer work. Always eager to grow, she continuously pursues new skills in areas such as project management, infographic design, and artificial intelligence, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and innovation.

Lea earned her 1st Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, graduating at the top of her class with distinction. She later advanced to a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts through Ernie Reyes’ West Coast World Martial Arts, a credential recognized as the equivalent of a Master’s-level achievement in health, fitness, and discipline. Her training reflects a lifelong commitment to personal growth, resilience, and holistic well-being.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Lea

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to unwavering self-determination and a commitment to continuous growth.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never stop learning—growth comes from staying curious and open to new knowledge.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Stay hungry, stay curious, and never stop pushing yourself to learn, grow, and take up space—you belong at the table.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The biggest challenge was doubting myself, but the real opportunity came in overcoming that self-doubt—embracing continuous learning and confidently stepping into new possibilities.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Integrity is the cornerstone of both my professional and personal life—it guides my decisions, builds trust, and ensures I show up authentically in every situation.

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