Transcription
Introduction
Emily: Good morning and welcome to Links Presents. This morning, I am so excited to welcome our guest, as part of the Links Presents portfolio.
We've got the fabulous Camilla McCusker, who I've known for nearly 20 years. She has had an incredible career to date, spanning hospitality, royalty, corporate communications, search and selection, and now a senior role at one of the world's largest global foundations.
Welcome, Camilla.
Camilla: Hello Emily. Thanks for having me today.
Emily: Let’s start with your current role. Could you tell us, in your words, where you work and what you do?
Camilla: I work for a large global foundation as the Director of the President's Office. We’re the second largest foundation in the world, supporting many individuals and networks through grants, mainly across human rights.
Emily: Does this role involve travelling?
Camilla: Yes, it does. I’m based in London but I travel regularly, mainly to the US. I hadn’t had a travel role in about 15 years, so being back in New York now, at a different stage of life, has been exciting.
Starting Out as a PA
Emily: How did you start your career as a PA?
Camilla: I studied Middle Eastern history and politics at university. Due to a family emergency, I missed an exam and had to wait a year to graduate. In the meantime, I took a maternity cover role as an EA, not really knowing what the job entailed. I loved it from the start.
That first role was in a five-star boutique hotel, supporting the General Manager. From there, I moved to the Dorchester Hotel, shadowing the Resident Manager. He was a great mentor, and I still credit him with teaching me core skills I use today.
Emily: Who have been your biggest inspirations in your career?
Camilla: Definitely mentors, many of them women. I’ve always sought guidance from people more experienced than me, and I’m very grateful for the support they’ve offered.
Emily: That’s great advice for listeners. Be proactive, seek mentorship, and learn from those around you.
Most Challenging PA Role
Emily: What has been your most challenging PA role to date?
Camilla: A two-year travel EA role. I essentially gave up my life to travel constantly with one individual. It was 24/7, highly demanding, and involved complex business elements. It was exhausting but taught me a lot about myself and my resilience.
Eventually, I experienced burnout and took three months off. A mentor then connected me to another opportunity, which led me to a corporate role I held for four years. Interestingly, I’m now working again with that same leader, 10 years later.
Emily: What advice would you give to someone starting out as a PA?
Camilla: Don’t limit yourself to one industry, be open to exploring different environments. Choose companies based on values and culture, not just titles or sectors. Seek out mentors and nurture professional relationships. Stay adaptable and curious.
Skills of a Personal Assistant
Emily: What three attributes make a great assistant?
Camilla:
Emotional Intelligence – the ability to listen, understand, and empathise.
Multitasking – managing shifting priorities with ease.
Flexibility & Resilience – being nimble, adapting to constant change, and staying calm under pressure.
Ultimately, a good EA is the grounding force for a team.
The Future of the EA Role
Emily: How do you see the role of EAs evolving over the next 10 years?
Camilla: I think traditional EA roles, like doing expenses or personal errands, are fading as technology takes over. Instead, the role is shifting towards project management, strategy, and connecting the dots. Hybrid working has also proven that EAs can work effectively remotely.
I believe the role will remain essential, but its scope will continue to expand.
Life Outside Work
Emily: When you’re not working or looking after your children, what do you enjoy doing?
Camilla: These days it’s the simple things like walking, being outdoors, and enjoying time with my family. It’s all about being present.
Final Thoughts
Emily: Camilla, thank you so much. Your career is inspiring, and I know our listeners will take so much value from your story.
Camilla: Thank you, Emily. It’s been lovely to be here.
