The role of an executive assistant is crucial in any business, as they provide active support to upper management and handle tasks such as scheduling, event planning, and communication. They are responsible for managing the schedules and communications of key executives, and their role requires confidential and professional secretarial and administrative support. A successful executive assistant must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, at least four years of administrative experience, and the ability to prioritize and organize tasks. They are also responsible for arranging and managing travel and meetings, as well as coordinating events and preparing presentations and reports.