Working abroad as a PA/EA - Interview with Oriel Partners

At SecsintheCity, we post the latest Personal Assistant and Executive Assistant in the UK, with many roles cropping up in London, Manchester and the West Midlands. However, there has recently been an influx of opportunities for PAs and EAs to take their skills abroad, to the sunnier climes of Europe and even the Middle East.

Recently, we spoke with Oriel Partners, who have noticed the trend of an increased number of PA and EA vacancies based overseas and the fact that many of their candidates are willing to relocate in order to support senior executives. We asked Oriel Partners to give us the rundown on the benefits and challenges of working as a Personal Assistant or Executive Assistant beyond the confines of the UK.

What challenges do UK candidates typically face when transitioning to roles abroad?

Although there are many benefits to working abroad, such as a higher standard of living, more earning potential and opportunities to travel, there can also be challenges. These include cultural and religious differences which can lead to unfamiliar working styles, having to learn a new market or language, a different standard of living and of course missing friends and family back at home.

Are there specific industries or sectors that are more likely to offer international opportunities for PAs and EAs?

We have seen the professional service sectors being the most common to offer opportunities abroad. These include financial services, technology and oil and gas. Also, private PA roles working for UHNWIs or family offices.

What are the usual expectations for PAs and EAs working abroad compared to those in the UK?

There is no set rule, and this depends on the person or company you support. We find that there is demand for high calibre, driven and professional candidates whether they are based in the UK or abroad.

Where expectations can vary, is when countries have different working styles to that in the UK. For example, in the UAE the working week is Sunday to Thursday or Friday. Also, during certain religious holidays, activities slow or stop and there is censorship on certain websites and TV channels. In Middle Eastern countries there are also different attitudes towards relationships and sexuality as well as dress codes so it is important you educate yourself on any differences you may face in other countries before deciding to make the move.    

What advice would you give to a UK-based PA or EA looking to secure their first role abroad?

If you are at a place in your life where working abroad is attractive, it can be a real adventure and a great way to gain new experiences and enhance your CV. Working with a recruiter like Oriel Partners who have access to unique opportunities internationally can provide you with the introductions needed to secure a role abroad. Do your research on the country you are considering relocating to and perhaps speak to a contact already working out there, to give yourself as much knowledge to make an informed decision.

If you currently work for an international company with offices abroad, speak to HR and explore opportunities to move internally. They won’t want to let good talent go, and your internal business knowledge will be attractive.

Is prior international experience important for candidates applying for roles abroad?

Not always, no. Each client will have a unique set of requirements when hiring, but perhaps what is more helpful is having worked for an international company previously where you have had to liaise with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This will show you have the suitable communication skills and can adapt to different working styles.

What are the most common questions and conceptions candidates have about working abroad in PA or EA roles?

Working abroad can seem exciting and glamorous, often with sunnier climates and a higher standard of living on offer. Is this true?

Whilst this is often the case, the reality is the work will still be demanding and often highly pressured, so candidates must be prepared to perform at a high level and provide first class support to the person or people they are assisting.

Is speaking the native language is a prerequisite to securing a role abroad?

This is not always the case and often English is used as the main language in business.

Will I be supported with relocation?

Many of our clients will offer a relocation package which will include supporting you with sourcing somewhere to live and assist whilst you are settling in. Your new employer will want to make the transition as comfortable as possible for you and should provide additional support at the initial stages.

Will I ever see my friends and family back home?

Often a relocation package will include a number of flights back home per year, ensuring you are able to return at regular intervals.

Will I be able to find a role abroad without being physically based in the country already? 

So much of the interview process is now done online that there is no need to be based on the ground when trying to source a role abroad. International companies often have a UK office which provides the opportunity to interview with some of the team face to face or the client may pay to fly you out to have your final interview.

Finding PA and EA jobs abroad with SecsintheCity

SecsintheCity hosts the latest Oriel Partners jobs, including those based in the UK and beyond into Cyprus, France, Saudi Arabia, The Netherlands and Monaco. Check out their jobs page to find your next international work opportunity and set a job alert to be directly informed by email every time a suitable job goes live.