Effective Elements of a CEO-Executive Assistant Relationship in a Transition of Leadership: My Experiences at AACC Walter G. Bumphus President and CEO American Association of Community Colleges

Keith Ferguson is an EXCELLENT Executive Assistant. In trying to secure Dr. Kanter, he told me he would let me know on Friday. Late Friday afternoon – he called and said, “I told you that you would hear from me. I don’t have an answer yet – but you’ll have one next week.’ AMAZING. He didn’t have an answer – but he didn’t want me wondering. HOW GREAT IS THAT. He has NO pretense – just very professional and helpful. Evelyn N. Waiwaiole, Ph.D. Suanne Davis Roueche NISOD Director Lecturer, Educational Administration, College of Education

Getting The Job Is Just The Beginning

Initial relationship with the EA Trust Confidentiality Style Competence Loyalty Representation of the office

System of Communications

Incorporate the EA into the Executive Team

Impact of EA in the Success of CEO

Other Considerations Clear communication of expectations Listening Ask lots of questions – what worked before/what didn’t Flexibility Maintain your sense of humor New sheriff in town; things will change, so it is important to adapt to new style of operation