Executive Assistant Job Description Public Accounting

Current job title: Executive Assistant

Industry: Public Accounting

Department: Tax

Years worked in this industry: 17

Years worked in this department: 17

Special training or attributes needed or helpful to get job in this industry (or specific department): No special training. I think my previous job, working in a small office, helped me land the position, as well as my skills.

Member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (“IAAP”) which provides me with a strong network of peers.

Number of managers and/or staff supported: 5-10

Typical work hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Weekends or overtime hours: From mid-January to mid-April, we work overtime and required Saturday hours. I get paid overtime.

General salary range (Note: This is a general figure or range provided by survey respondent and may NOT be an exact salary in order to give survey respondent some privacy. Also you must take into account that the number of years worked in industry/department may contribute to this salary as well as criteria such as level of position and person reports to, required hours and geographical location.): approx. $50,000. (Yes, the number of years contributes and the fact that I support the company CEO.)

Benefits (direct or indirect): Do not believe the benefits are as good as they could be (we merged with other firms and jointly represent a large pool of employees).

Lingo you might hear in this industry:

Workpapers: Documents obtained from the client that support their financial activities.

Audited Financial Statements: Prepared annually as required by the client (and or its governing body). It represents a snapshot of the previous year’s income and expenses.

E-file: To file a tax return electronically, usually through a software provider directly to the IRS.

A typical day on the job: Handle routine correspondence, e-mail, phones. Track due dates for clients and firm, plan meetings.

Positive things about being an administrative professional in this industry: Diversity of tasks; more exposure to Excel and its many functions.

Negative things about being an administrative professional in this industry:

Long hours
Stress during busy season
Deadlines

Type of workspace/office: Desk in hall (near elevators)

Primary responsibilities as an administrative professional in this position:

Due date tracking
Meeting scheduling
Front Desk Support, as necessary
Preparation of Documents (including proposals)
E-filing of Tax Returns

Top thing(s) incumbent admin would require of job applicants seeking to be her/his position replacement:

Ability to work unsupervised.
Ability to multi-task
Good mind reader

Office machines or equipment operated regularly: Computer, fax, scanner, postal machine.

Technology (hard) skills used regularly: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Business Objects, Elite (practice management system)

Critical soft skills:

Team Player—usually have to pitch in during busy season.
Communicator—need to deal with clients.
Adaptability—ability to change gears when critical projects surface.

Pace of this position: Mostly average (fast part of year)

Geographical region: Northeast U.S.