Episode 4: From EA to Director of Operations - Fiona Boyd’s Story of Growth, Grit & Community

Hosted by: Daniel Skermer, Founder PA Forum, the Midlands PA Awards and the Office Pro Show 2026 The EA role continues to evolve, job titles, overall roles and responsibilities across the profession are changing… In this episode of Stories Beyond the Desk, Fiona Boyd shares how she progressed from Executive Assistant to Director of Operations at JW. Hinks, building her career without the need of a university degree all with enormous grit, determination and an incredible passion. This is a conversation about career progression, building confidence, recognition of continued professional development and understanding the value of your own skillset and qualities. Fiona talks openly about moments of doubt, decisions she made that furthered her career and how she learned to step outside the traditional administrative responsibilities and step into influence operations, culture, compliance, HR and organisational development. By listening to this session you will discover how to: Recognise the transferable skills that can take you beyond your current role Build confidence by asking questions, seeking opportunities, putting yourself forward and saying YES Utilise networking, learning and board experiences to strengthen your strategic thinking Take control and reshape your role without waiting for someone else to define your progression Move from being the person who gets things done to someone who influences how an organisation operates Know when it is time to let go, trust your team and step into leadership Find the right community and support when you are navigating your next career move Fiona’s story is a powerful reminder that career progression does not always follow a traditional path. Sometimes it comes from curiosity, courage, transferable skills and being willing to put your hand up. And, as Fiona shares, having a community around you can make all the difference. Whether you’re a PA, EA, VA, Office Manager or Business Support professional working at any stage of your career, this episode will encourage you to really think about and appreciate your capabilities, consider where your skills could take you and what might be possible for you in the next stage of your journey. #PA #EA #PAForum #CareerTransition #Growth #Grit Linked in Profile; Daniel Skermer:   / danielskermer   Featuring: Fiona Boyd, Director of Operations at JW Hinks Linked In Profile; Fiona Boyd:   / fiona-boyd-b0241518   Join us for the Learning & Development Conference 2026 HERE: https://pa-forum.co.uk/event/pa-forum... Have you bought tickets for the Midlands PA Awards 2026 yet? Join us for the biggest party of the year HERE: https://pa-forum.co.uk/midlands-pa-aw... #podcast #birmingham #pa #va #ea #officeprofessionals #officelife #officevlog #executivesuccess #officelife #virtualassistant #virtualassistantsupport #virtualassistantlife #executiveassistant #personalassistant #westmidlands #eastmidlands