From backroom to boardroom: Elevating the role of the administrative professional

By Rebecca Agyirba AFFUL

April is globally recognised as Administrative Professionals Month — a time to reflect on, celebrate and reassess the evolving role of a group that often works behind the scenes but is central to organisational success.

Administrative professionals — from executive assistants and office managers to personal assistants and secretaries — are the quiet engines that keep operations running smoothly.

They manage the flow of information, support leadership, organise complex schedules and create the structure that allows others to thrive.

Yet, while their work is vital, it has not always been visible.

For decades, administrative professional roles were perceived as purely supportive or task-driven. However, that narrative is shifting.

Today, administrative professionals are increasingly being seen as strategic partners — trusted advisors who understand the inner workings of their organisations and play a crucial role in driving productivity, culture and continuity.

This shift presents a moment of opportunity and responsibility.

Recognising the full picture

The profession, like any other, has its highlights and its hurdles.

On the positive side, the role has expanded, offering greater variety, impact and, in many cases, fulfilment.

Many administrative professionals are now managing projects, leading teams and contributing to executive decision-making. They are being invited to the table — not just to take notes but to offer insight.

However, challenges remain. Career progression for administrative professionals is not always clearly defined. The line between administrative support and managerial responsibility is often blurred, leading to role creep — where individuals take on more without the title, compensation or recognition that should follow.

In some environments, administrative professionals are still seen through outdated lenses. Their contributions are assumed rather than acknowledged, and their presence is considered background rather than central.

These perceptions can hinder growth and contribute to burnout, especially when expectations are high but support is limited.

A time for realignment

As we celebrate Administrative Professionals Month, the goal must not only be appreciation — but action. It is time to move administrative professionals from the background to the boardroom.

This does not necessarily mean a seat at the highest table for all, but it does mean greater inclusion in strategic conversations, investment in career development and a clear path for advancement.

Organisations that do this will benefit from a more engaged, capable and innovative administrative workforce. After all, professionals who understand how to manage complexity, navigate personalities and anticipate needs are assets in any leadership structure.

Looking forward

The future of work for administrative professionals is not just about doing more — it’s about being more: more visible, more valued and more aligned with the evolving needs of today’s workplace. Celebrating administrative professionals should go beyond flowers and thank-you notes.

It should include real conversations about role clarity, support systems, technology integration and professional growth.

These conversations will help ensure that administrative professionals are not only seen and heard — but fully respected as strategic contributors to organisational success.

As we mark this special month, let it serve as a call to action: to elevate the role, reshape the narrative and create a future where the administrative professional is recognised as not just essential, but exceptional.

>>>the writer is President of the Network of Administrative Professionals of Ghana. A support community for professionals with job titles such as executive assistants, personal assistants, administrative assistants and the like. Email Address: [email protected], LinkedIn: Rebecca.A.Afful.

The post From backroom to boardroom: Elevating the role of the administrative professional appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.

Read Full Story