The Centre for Executive Development (CED) has called on executive and administrative professionals to become strategic partners within their organisations. This urgent call addresses the profound impact of technology and artificial intelligence on the modern workplace. The CED advocates for a significant shift from traditional task-oriented roles to more influential positions.
This repositioning is crucial for professionals to maintain relevance and drive organisational success. The Executive and Administrative Leaders Roundtable 2026, held in Accra, served as the platform for this discussion. The event gathered various stakeholders to explore the changing demands of the profession. It highlighted the need for professionals to think strategically and embrace innovation.
Ghana's economy, like many others, is experiencing rapid digital transformation across sectors. This trend necessitates a workforce capable of adapting to new tools and methodologies. The emphasis on strategic thinking and innovation aligns with the broader national agenda for digital literacy and economic growth. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service consistently shows increasing technology adoption in businesses. This makes continuous professional development a critical investment for individuals and companies.
Mrs. Abigail Ampontuah-Yeboah, Executive Director of CED, stated, “The future of executive support will belong to professionals who are prepared to think strategically, embrace innovation, exercise sound judgement, and demonstrate measurable impact.” She stressed that professionals must recognise their roles' value and prepare for greater responsibility. This perspective underscores the evolving nature of administrative functions.
The implications of this shift are far-reaching for Ghana's labour market. Professionals must invest in continuous learning, focusing on digital technology, strategy, and project management. Employers must also prioritise the development of their administrative staff. This investment strengthens leadership, improves communication, and reduces operational risks. Ultimately, it enhances overall organisational productivity and governance. Decision-makers and educational institutions will need to respond by offering relevant training programs.
Mrs. Ampontuah-Yeboah explained that artificial intelligence and automation should be seen as opportunities, not threats. Technology can take over repetitive administrative tasks. This allows professionals to focus on higher-value responsibilities. These include emotional intelligence, discretion, critical thinking, and relationship management. These human capabilities become increasingly vital in a tech-driven environment.
The CED Executive Director reaffirmed her organisation's commitment to professionalising executive support. CED achieves this through training, certification, and continuous professional development programs. The Centre has already trained more than 200 professionals. These programs equip individuals with essential competencies. They help professionals become trusted strategic partners within their organisations.
The Roundtable, themed “Executive Support 2030: Leading Through Innovation, Influence and Impact,” saw participation from key professional bodies. These included the HR Certification Centre and the National Association of Professional Secretaries and Administrative Professionals Ghana (NAPG). The West African branch of the Chartered Governance Institute (CGI) also contributed. Their involvement highlights the growing recognition of executive support's importance for organisational effectiveness. CED plans to continue creating platforms for learning and networking. This will further empower Ghana's administrative workforce for the future.