Call to Action Report for Administrative Professionals 2025

We are delighted to introduce our latest report, “Call to Action”, which reveals a snapshot of our profession at a pivotal moment. Drawing on in-depth discussions and comprehensive survey data from the PA Forum community, we’ve uncovered a compelling paradox: a highly experienced and loyal workforce is facing systemic barriers to career growth, yet holds remarkable optimism for the future, especially regarding technology like AI.  However, this is more than a report, it’s a manifesto for the future of our profession. We invite you to read the full document to understand the challenges we face and, more importantly, to join us in building solutions.  This report serves as a foundational tool for advocacy, equipping both administrative professionals and organisational leaders with the data needed to shape a more dynamic future.  To download your copy of the full report, please enter your details in the form below and you can access the whole document.

 

Key Findings at a Glance

 

Key Findings:

Our research, based on survey data and qualitative feedback, reveals several pressing challenges and opportunities.  It highlights a critical disconnect between the desire for strategic partnership and the reality of current workplace structures.

• Lack of Career Structure: A significant majority of administrative professionals (65%) feel there are no clear, strategic career pathways within their organisations. This is compounded by widespread confusion over advanced roles like Chief of Staff.
• Succession Planning Crisis: An overwhelming 84% of respondents report their organisations lack comprehensive succession plans for key administrative roles, putting invaluable institutional knowledge at risk.
• Enthusiasm for AI: There is strong positive sentiment towards AI, with over 70% believing it will redefine their roles and strategic value. However, this is met with a lack of organisational support, as nearly 60% feel they are not receiving adequate training.
• Demographic Profile: The community is composed of deeply experienced professionals, with a majority having over 10 years of tenure in their roles and organisations, underscoring the urgency of addressing career progression and knowledge transfer.

Thank you for taking the time to look at the report and especially to those who contributed and helped to compile it.  We hope you find it an interesting read into the the situation that our industry finds itself in