Prospen Africa

ProspenAfrica | Training and Consulting Services Provider

The Exceptional Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants Masterclass

3 Day Training

Dates: 10 – 12 February 2025
Locations: Grayston Ridge Office Park, Sandton
Platform: Available In-Class / Online

Price: Available on Request

Course Introduction

The Advanced Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants Programme is designed to provide experienced administrative professionals with the skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to excel in senior support roles. This comprehensive programme focuses on enhancing key competencies required to effectively support executives and manage complex administrative tasks in a dynamic business environment. The programme combines theoretical concepts with practical application to ensure participants gain valuable insights and develop proficiency in advanced administrative skills.

Course Objectives

By achieving these outcomes, participants in the Advanced Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants Programme will be equipped with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to excel in senior support roles, provide strategic support to executives, and contribute effectively to their organizations. Advanced Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants Programme Outcomes:

  1. Enhanced Communication Skills: Participants will develop advanced verbal and written communication skills, allowing them to effectively interact with executives, stakeholders, and colleagues. They will demonstrate improved listening skills, clear and concise writing abilities, and adaptability to different communication styles.

  2. Strategic Support: Participants will understand the strategic role of a senior secretary or personal assistant and acquire the knowledge and skills to provide valuable support to executives in achieving organizational objectives. They will possess a proactive and anticipatory approach to executive support, anticipating needs and offering innovative solutions.

  3. Leadership and Decision-making Abilities: Participants will develop leadership qualities necessary for senior support roles. They will demonstrate the ability to make informed decisions, solve complex problems, and exercise sound judgment. They will also acquire the skills to influence others and effectively communicate ideas and suggestions.

  4. Project Management Expertise: Participants will gain proficiency in project management principles and techniques. They will be able to plan, coordinate, and manage projects effectively, ensuring the successful completion of tasks within designated timelines and utilizing available resources efficiently.

  5. Time Management and Productivity: Participants will acquire advanced time management techniques to prioritize tasks, manage competing priorities, and optimize productivity. They will learn to delegate responsibilities and supervise junior support staff, streamlining administrative processes for improved efficiency.

  6. Technological Proficiency: Participants will develop advanced technological skills relevant to their roles. They will become proficient in office productivity software, collaboration platforms, and data analysis tools. They will stay updated on emerging technologies, enabling them to leverage digital tools for enhanced administrative tasks.

  7. Professionalism and Ethics: Participants will demonstrate professionalism and uphold ethical standards in their roles as senior support professionals. They will understand the importance of confidentiality, discretion, and data protection. They will maintain professional boundaries, handle conflicts of interest, and make ethical decisions in the workplace.

  8. Stakeholder Relationship Management: Participants will possess the skills to build and maintain positive relationships with executives, colleagues, and clients. They will exhibit effective communication strategies, resolve conflicts diplomatically, and navigate challenging situations with professionalism.

  9. Personal and Career Development: Participants will develop personal resilience and stress management techniques to navigate demanding work environments. They will create personal development plans to foster continuous growth and identify opportunities for career advancement. They will leverage networking and professional communities to enhance their career success.

Who should attend?

The Prospen Africa Exceptional Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants Masterclass is ideal for:

  • Senior secretaries

  • Personal assistants

  • Executive assistants

  • Administrative professionals

  • Office managers

Secretarial Courses

Training Methodology

Our diverse instructional approaches ensure effective learning:

– Lectures & Presentations: Engage with expert-driven, stimulating content.
– Course Material: Access well-crafted supporting resources.
– Group Work: Collaborate on discussions and case studies for practical insights.
– Workshops & Role-Play: Participate in immersive, scenario-based activities.
– Practical Application: Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in real situations.
– Post-Training Support: Receive extensive support after training for skill implementation.

Training Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Corporate Governance and the Role of a Company Secretary

  • Introduction to Corporate Governance principles.

  • Overview of the King Report on Corporate Governance (King IV) and its application in Southern Africa.

  • The role of corporate governance in sustainable development in Southern Africa.

  • The legal status and the pivotal role of the Company Secretary.

  • Company Secretary as the bridge between the board and the business.

  • Case studies: Review of Company Secretaries’ roles in successful Southern African companies.

Module 2: Legal Framework and Regulatory Compliance

  • Overview of the Companies Act and other relevant legislation affecting corporate operations.

  • Understanding the regulatory environment for listed and unlisted companies.

  • Developing and managing a compliance calendar.

  • Risk management and compliance: Identifying and mitigating legal risks.

  • Workshop: Creating a compliance checklist tailored for a hypothetical company.

Module 3: Board Structures and Dynamics

  • Understanding different types of board structures.

  • Roles and responsibilities of directors and how they interact with the Company Secretary.

  • Diversity and inclusion on the board.

  • Planning and preparing for board meetings.

  • Minute-taking and maintaining board meeting records.

  • Case study: Analysing board meeting minutes and identifying areas of improvement.

Module 4: Financial Oversight and Reporting

  • Overview of financial statements and their interpretation.

  • The role of the Company Secretary in financial oversight.

  • Understanding audits and the Company Secretary’s role in the audit process.

  • Practical exercises on reading financial statements.

  • Workshop: Preparing an annual report – a step-by-step guide for Company Secretaries.

Module 5: Ethics, CSR, and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Understanding ethics and integrity in the corporate context.

  • Role of the Company Secretary in promoting ethical practices within the company.

  • Overview of CSR in Southern Africa.

  • Strategies for effective stakeholder engagement.

  • Workshop: Developing a CSR strategy for a hypothetical company.

  • Networking sessions with experienced Company Secretaries.

  • Q&A sessions with legal expert on specific Southern African legal issues.

  • Group discussions on day-to-day challenges faced by Company Secretaries and possible solutions.

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