Average Executive Assistant Salary in the UK

For those intrigued by the role or looking to hire an Executive Assistant (EA), understanding salary expectations is crucial. This article dives into EA salary ranges across the UK, highlighting regional differences and experience levels, and offers insights on how to secure better compensation for this key position.

What Does An Executive Assistant (EA) Do?

Executive assistants (EAs), the architects of efficiency, manage the gears that run executive offices. Their roles extend beyond administrative duties, touching every corner of corporate operations. 

Through their role, they help to:

• Schedule and prioritise crucial meetings, allowing executives to focus on big-picture tasks.

• Handle all communications, internal and external, with discretion and professionalism.

• Organise events and oversee projects.

• Manage access to executives to protect their time.

• Manage unexpected issues, resolving them swiftly and efficiently.

Discover more about how EAs add value to an organisation here.

What Does An Average EA Earn In The UK?

Now we’re familiar with what an executive assistant does, let’s take a look at their average salary.

Average EA Salary in the UK

As of 2024, the average salary for an executive assistant in the UK is approximately £42,324 per annum, based on data from Glassdoor. Salaries can vary significantly, ranging from around £32,000 to £48,000, depending on the EA's experience, location, and sector. Typically, more experienced EAs in major cities or specialised industries, such as Finance or Technology, can expect higher salaries.

Average EA Salary in London

In London, executive assistants typically earn higher salaries due to the city's cost of living and the concentration of multinational corporations. As of 2024, the average salary for an EA in London is approximately £45,568, with a range typically between £34,000 and £51,000, as reported by Glassdoor. This variation in salary reflects factors such as the employer's industry, the EA's level of experience, and the specific demands of their role.

Average Hourly Rate For An EA

An EA’s hourly wages typically range from approximately £12 to £30 per hour, with the average rate around £18. This rate varies widely based on the nature of the employment—whether it's temporary, part-time, or for specific events like major corporate functions. Industries with non-standard hours, such as entertainment or special project-based sectors, may choose to pay EAs on an hourly basis, reflecting the flexible nature of the work.

Highest Earning EAs

Executive assistants at the top of their field, particularly those supporting high-profile executives, celebrities, or senior roles within leading financial institutions in London, can command salaries ranging from £50,000 to £75,000 annually. This upper salary bracket can rise further for EAs with extensive experience, specialist skills or qualifications, as well as those employed by globally recognised figures or in highly lucrative industries.

EA Salaries in Other Major Cities in the UK

Outside London, executive assistant salaries in major UK cities reflect the regional cost of living and industry presence. 

Here's a glance at the average EA salaries in key urban centres:

Birmingham: £42,324

Manchester: £33,728

Edinburgh: £35,128

Bristol: £34,451

Leeds: £34,653

Glasgow: £32,708

This data has been taken from self-reporting salary figures within Glassdoor as of April 2024.

Factors Influencing An EA Salary

Experience

The journey of an executive assistant from entry-level to a seasoned professional is often mirrored in their salary progression. EAs who have developed their skills over years, particularly those who have managed high-profile individuals or complex projects, can command significantly higher salaries. This reflects their ability to handle more responsibilities and their proven track record in high-stakes environments.

Geographical Location

Executive assistants in financial hubs like London or other major cities often earn more due to the higher cost of living and the concentration of businesses that can afford to pay top dollar for skilled professionals. Conversely, EAs in smaller cities or rural areas might find the salary scales are somewhat lower, reflecting the local economic conditions.

Employment Type

The structure of employment – whether full-time, part-time, or contract – also affects earnings. Full-time EAs often receive a comprehensive salary package, which might include benefits like health insurance, pension contributions, and bonuses, which are not always available in part-time or contract roles. Part-time roles may offer greater flexibility but usually come with lower overall compensation.

Specialisation

EAs who choose to specialise in certain fields or develop niche skills can leverage these to negotiate higher salaries. High-demand specialisations include legal, tech, financial services, or multilingual capabilities. These skills set EAs apart and make them invaluable to employers who need more than administrative support. For example, an EA with advanced IT skills may be instrumental in managing digital communications or safeguarding confidential information, thereby justifying a higher pay grade.

How To Command A Higher EA Salary

Following these steps can significantly position you as a valuable candidate in the EA market, helping you secure a salary that reflects your skills and contributions to the organisation.

1. Continuous Professional Development

Invest in your growth by pursuing courses and certifications that enhance essential EA skills, particularly those focusing on technology, management, or industry-specific knowledge like finance or legal sectors.

2. Build a Niche

Differentiate yourself by gaining expertise in a particular sector, such as technology, finance, healthcare, or media. Further, acquiring multilingual skills can substantially increase your appeal to international firms or those with a global clientele.

3. Expand Your Network

Connect with recruitment agencies that focus on EA and administrative roles, like Tyler Griffen, and participate in industry events like conferences and seminars. These platforms can provide learning opportunities while providing opportunities to forge valuable industry connections.

4. Compile a Portfolio

Create a portfolio that includes testimonials, feedback, and specific examples of your contributions that have positively impacted your employers. This portfolio can be a powerful tool in salary negotiations to demonstrate your value.

5. Seek Mentorship

Find a mentor within the industry who has a track record of success and can provide personalised advice and strategies for career advancement and salary negotiations.

6. Negotiate Assertively

Prepare for salary discussions by understanding your market worth and being ready to articulate your qualifications and contributions effectively. Regularly update yourself with the latest salary data from sources like Glassdoor and EA recruitment agencies to ensure your salary requests are aligned with the current market standards.

Explore Your EA Opportunities with Tyler Griffen

Are you aiming to advance your career as an executive assistant or seeking to hire a top-tier EA? With our extensive experience in EA recruitment, we are well-equipped to match you with the perfect opportunity. Connect with our expert team today, or view our current job openings for executive assistants here.