In the world of high-level support roles—especially within luxury households, family offices, and corporate executive environments—most executive assistants are are predominantly held by women. But while this gender distribution remains the norm, it’s not a requirement. And it’s certainly not an indicator of capability or professionalism.
This article explores the demographics behind executive assistant roles, the evolving landscape, and why both male and female professionals are making a strong impact—especially in ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) households and private service environments.
The Historical Roots of Female Executive Assistants
A Legacy of Administrative Support Roles
For decades, women have filled secretarial, administrative, and support positions—roles that eventually evolved into the modern executive assistant. These jobs were historically viewed as extensions of domestic or nurturing roles and, as such, attractive female candidates at a higher rate.
As the position of executive assistant grew more complex—encompassing logistics, travel, communication, and decision support—women continued to dominate the space.
Today, estimates show that over 80% of executive assistants in the United States are female.
What Does an Executive Assistant Do?
Beyond Scheduling and Emails
A modern executive assistant is far more than an administrative helper. Especially in UHNW households or family offices, the role may involve:
- Complex calendar and travel coordination
- Private jet and estate management support
- Staff oversight and cross-team liaison
- Confidential document handling and NDA compliance
- Anticipating the principal’s needs
- Vendor and contractor coordination
- Event planning and guest logistics
The demands require discretion, strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and deep service orientation—skills that aren’t gender-specific.
Why Women Dominate the EA Field
Cultural Norms and Hiring Biases
There are a few key reasons why most executive assistants are female:
- Historic patterns: Women have long filled administrative roles due to cultural and professional norms.
- Soft skill alignment: Emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and communication skills are often (rightly or wrongly) associated with women in hiring contexts.
- Hiring bias: Some principals or executives may unconsciously prefer a female assistant, assuming they will be more nurturing or organized.
These trends are shifting—but slowly.
The Rise of Male Executive Assistants
Changing the Narrative in Private Service
While female EAs are still the majority, male executive assistants are increasingly in demand in roles that blend:
- Security or protective oversight
- Estate or property management
- Logistics-heavy support for male principals
- Family office environments with operational or finance functions
At The Estate Agency, we place both male and female executive assistants based entirely on experience, discretion, and ability to thrive in demanding luxury environments. Gender is never a factor—fit is everything.
Diversity Brings Strength
Tailoring the Right Personality to the Role
Each household or executive office has its own rhythm, privacy expectations, and professional culture. The best placements are made not based on gender, but on:
- Personality compatibility with the principal
- Professional track record
- Emotional maturity and confidentiality
- Ability to anticipate and adapt
That’s why high-end staffing firms like The Estate Agency work closely with clients to assess the nuances of each position and match them with exceptional candidates—regardless of gender.
Final Thoughts: Are Most Executive Assistants Female?
Yes—but the field is changing. The dominance of women in executive assistant roles is a result of history and hiring trends, not ability. Men and women alike are thriving in this demanding, fast-paced profession.
And as UHNW households and corporate environments continue to evolve, so too will their expectations—opening the door for a more diverse, balanced, and inclusive talent pool.