Rhonda Selin

Reflecting on my career as an Executive Assistant and PMP-certified Project Management Professional, my journey began in high school but truly accelerated following a pivotal conversation with my former employer VP of Life Sciences Service, Thiru VD. When asked about my long-term goals and strengths, I initially focused on retirement. However, Thiru VD challenged me to seek feedback from colleagues across the organization. The consensus was clear: my aptitude for managing projects stood out. Encouraged to pursue project management, I was tasked with leading the creation of a collaboration room—an assignment that required coordinating with vendors and facilities while maintaining my responsibilities as an Executive Assistant and Senior Life Sciences Training Coordinator. With mentorship from Laurel Nomura, PMO Manager, I successfully completed the project just before the COVID-19 shutdown. Motivated by this experience, I earned my PMP certification on May 28, 2022. Throughout my career, I have held multiple roles simultaneously, including Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, Customer Service Representative, and Project Manager. I have consistently sought to exceed expectations and challenge the perception of being “just an EA.” Key traits for Executive Assistants include building and maintaining trust, exercising sound judgment, embracing challenges, and supporting team objectives. Confidence, influence, and continuous learning—especially in critical thinking and technology—are essential. Executive Assistants are often the foundation behind successful meetings and events, ensuring seamless execution even if not in the spotlight. What I value most about my role is the opportunity to support others’ success, maintain confidentiality, and serve as a trusted advisor. Although I do not work directly with patients, my contributions to leadership in Quality, Regulatory, and Clinical Affairs allow me to make a meaningful impact on global healthcare outcomes. My progress in my current role has been made possible through the support of the entire team at Cepheid, with particular appreciation for Somesh Lalithraj, Senior Vice President of QRC, whom I have directly supported and collaborated with over the past two years.

The most impactful career guidance I have received emphasizes the importance of continuous growth through education, mentorship, and embracing challenges beyond one’s comfort zone. In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, it is imperative for Executive Assistants to proactively expand their skill sets to remain relevant and indispensable. As trusted partners to the executives we support, we must demonstrate unwavering commitment, adaptability, and a dedication to excellence. By consistently striving to enhance our capabilities and by supporting our executives with integrity and determination, we contribute meaningfully to their success—and, in turn, to our own professional advancement.

For young professionals entering the workforce as executive assistants, the most valuable career advice is to become an indispensable strategic partner to their executive. This involves building trust through discretion and reliability, mastering the executive’s preferences and communication style, and establishing regular routines for effective updates and prioritization. Executive assistants should proactively anticipate needs, manage access to their executive with professionalism, and demonstrate initiative and sound judgment in decision-making. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the use of digital tools are essential for managing complex tasks. Continuous growth is also critical understanding the broader business context, developing both technical and interpersonal skills, seeking mentorship, and building a strong professional network all contribute to long-term success. For me this has been attending the yearly conference that Joan Burge of Office Dynamics International conducts every year. She elevates and educations Executive Assistants in ways that keep them current and relevant.

Executive Assistants (EAs) today encounter a dynamic landscape characterized by both significant challenges and promising opportunities. The evolving scope of the role often results in increased strategic responsibilities, heightened exposure to rapid technological advancements, and the necessity to manage remote and hybrid work environments. These factors can contribute to burnout and make it difficult to maintain work-life balance, as EAs are frequently required to be available beyond traditional working hours. Additionally, the expansion of duties into areas outside of the normal EA duties, coupled with the absence of clearly defined career progression pathways, underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous professional development. Emotional intelligence remains paramount, as EAs must navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and serve as trusted buffers for their executives. However, this profession offers substantial opportunities for growth. By embracing emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, EAs can position themselves as indispensable strategic partners and digital liaisons within their organizations. Upskilling in advanced technology, project management, and data analysis enables EAs to transition into roles of greater complexity and value. The adoption of flexible work models presents avenues for improved work-life balance and reduced stress. Through ongoing learning, proactive leadership, and commitment to excellence, executive assistants can not only enhance organizational efficiency but also advance toward leadership positions within their respective fields.

Both personally and professionally my values are equally aligned. I exemplify integrity, adaptability, and resourcefulness in my professional role, consistently demonstrating exceptional communication, discretion, and technological proficiency to support organizational leadership. In the workplace, I am entrusted with sensitive information and am expected to uphold the highest ethical standards. My adaptability enables me to navigate dynamic environments and embrace new tools and work styles. My proactive mindset and organizational excellence allow me to anticipate needs, solve problems efficiently, and manage complex workloads with precision. Building strong relationships across all levels of the organization is essential to be effective. I find fulfillment in providing seamless support and fostering positive relationships. On a personal level, I am committed to ongoing personal growth, seeking continuous training and development to excel in my field. That training and development I also use in my personal life. I have a strong work ethic, and I also strive for a balanced approach that supports both professional achievement and personal well-being. I volunteer with groups that I feel passionate about like SoundwavesTV and am also learning a lot about caring for a Congo African Grey Parrot named Charlie who keeps me on toes both mentally and physically.