Having worked closely with both roles in a corporate setting, I've noticed the distinction often boils down to scope and strategic involvement. A CEO secretary typically handles the logistical side—managing calendars, filtering calls, and organizing documents. It's like being the gatekeeper of time, ensuring the CEO isn't overwhelmed by administrative noise.
On the flip side, an executive assistant (EA) dives deeper into operational support. They might draft communications, prepare reports, or even liaise with other departments to align priorities. I once saw an EA step in to restructure a meeting agenda to highlight urgent financial metrics, something a secretary wouldn't usually touch. The EA role feels more like a shadow manager, while the secretary is the unsung hero keeping daily chaos at bay.