Strategic PA Network | In-person, Ashmolean Museum Oxford | 8.00am - 9.30am | The Strategic EA Compass
Wednesday 6th May 2026 8.00am - 9.30am - BST
Location: Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH
Wednesday 6th May 2026 8.00am - 9.30am - BST
Location: Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking breakfast session at the iconic Ashmolean Museum in Oxford as we explore how EAs can take a more intentional, strategic approach to their career development with 'The Strategic EA Compass: An Assistant’s Guide to Future-Proofing Your Career Journey' with Marianne Whitlock and Sarah Howson.
In partnership with two highly respected voices in the profession, Marianne and Sarah, this session will guide you through what it truly means to future-proof your career in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Through an intimate, fireside-style discussion using The Strategic EA Compass, we’ll explore how to navigate change, build long-term career resilience, and position yourself for continued growth and opportunity.
What we’ll explore:
· What 'future-proofing' really means for today’s EA
· How to take ownership of your career direction with clarity and confidence
· Identifying and developing the skills that will keep you relevant and in demand
· Navigating change, uncertainty and evolving expectations within the role
· Building a long-term, sustainable career strategy
What you’ll leave with:
· A clearer sense of direction and ownership over your career journey
· Practical ideas to help you stay relevant and adaptable in a changing landscape
· Increased confidence in making strategic career decisions
· Insight into how to position yourself for future opportunities
· A renewed sense of purpose and motivation
Why attend?
· Start your day with inspiration in a unique and prestigious setting
· Gain valuable insights from two experienced and respected leaders in the EA profession
· Connect with like-minded peers in a supportive, professional environment
· Leave feeling focused, empowered, and equipped to take your next steps
Whether you’re at a crossroads in your career or simply looking to stay ahead, this session will provide the clarity and direction to help you move forward with confidence. We look forward to welcoming you.
Sarah Howson is Founder of Strategic PA Network and an experienced Executive Assistant with over 20 years of C-suite support experience. Her career spans start-up and international organisations, delivering complex leadership events, trade shows and investor roadshows, alongside later work in luxury automotive event management. Passionate about professional development and accessible networking, Sarah founded what became Strategic PA Network to create meaningful connection and support for assistants beyond London.
Marianne Whitlock is Co-Founder and Director of Strategic PA Network and Strategic PA Recruitment, with a background in luxury travel sales and over 15 years’ experience in relationship building and stakeholder engagement. She is known for creating inclusive, high impact networking events and championing the assistant community. Respected for her integrity and people-first approach, Marianne is also a committed charity fundraiser and endurance runner.
The Ashmolean Museum is the University of Oxford’s world-renowned museum of art and archaeology, established in 1683 as the first public museum. It offers a prestigious, historic setting for corporate events, featuring dramatic galleries, modern spaces, and a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Oxford. Ideal for bespoke receptions, dinners, and meetings, it provides unparalleled atmosphere in a centre of excellence.
Strategic PA Network is an active, professional networking group for Personal Assistants, Executive Assistants, Virtual Assistants, Administrators, and Office Managers. Whether based in the UK or around the world, we are proudly all-inclusive and not county-specific; anyone is welcome to attend our events and be part of our thriving community.
Over the past ten years, we have organically grown into a supportive and empowering network where Assistants come together to learn, connect, and grow. Our mission is to provide a credible platform that encourages industry awareness, meaningful connections, and shared best practices.
Learning and development are at the core of everything we do, with our events exploring essential topics that bring value, spark insight, and deliver revelatory moments.
At Strategic PA Network, we believe in the power of community - lifting each other up, celebrating every success, and inspiring Assistance to reach their full potential.
CONNECT | INSPIRE | LEARN | EMPOWER | NETWORK | COLLABORATE | MENTORSHIP