Posted on 16/12/2025 by Charlotte Frank
Market Pulse: Hong Kong & Singapore
As we wrap up 2025, the business supports hiring landscape across Hong Kong and Singapore reflects a blend of strategic caution, digital fluency, and evolving expectations, especially within financial services. Here’s what we’re seeing on the ground:
Hong Kong: Precision Hiring & Digital Readiness
Replacement-Driven Demand: Hiring remains steady, with most roles driven by strategic replacements rather than expansion. Succession planning is top of mind, particularly for Executive Assistants and Office Managers supporting senior leadership.
Tech-Savvy Talent in Demand: Digital fluency is no longer a “nice to have.” Candidates who are comfortable with AI tools, scheduling platforms, and hybrid workflows are increasingly preferred, especially in lean, high-performing buy-side environments.
Contract-to-Perm Momentum: Sell-side firms are favouring short-term contracts with a view to permanency, allowing flexibility in headcount planning while assessing long-term fit.
Singapore: Softening Outlook, Strategic Flexibility
Hiring Sentiment Dips: Singapore’s Q4 hiring outlook has softened, with net employment sentiment falling below the global average. Financial services firms are cautious, with hiring concentrated in support roles that offer operational continuity.
Rise of Maternity Covers & Interim Roles: Short-term contracts, particularly for reception and admin roles, are gaining traction. Employers are using these as strategic bridges, often converting strong performers to permanent hires.
EQ & Cultural Fit Take Center Stage: With hybrid work now embedded soft skills like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cultural fluency are critical. Receptionists and front desk professionals are expected to be brand ambassadors, creating seamless guest experiences.
What’s Trending Across Both Markets
AI Adoption: Candidates familiar with tools like Copilot, ChatGPT, and automation platforms are standing out.
Hybrid-Ready Support: Roles now include managing virtual meetings, coordinating remote teams, and supporting digital workflows.
Contract-to-Perm Strategy: Employers are leaning into flexible hiring models to manage risk and retain top talent.
EA Evolution | From Support to Strategy
Inspired by Monique Helstrom | Written by Shaleena Mulchandani – Associate Director– Business Support, Financial Services
Executive Assistants are no longer just behind-the-scenes operators. The most impactful EAs today are strategic thinkers, culture shapers, and trusted advisors, not only to their executives but across the organization.
Inspired by Monique Helstrom’s powerful message to “stop following and start leading,” this edition is your playbook for becoming a high-impact, influential EA in 2026 and beyond.
1. Own Your Seat at the Table
You’re not “just” an assistant, you’re a strategic enabler. Show up with ideas, not just execution. Ask questions that drive clarity and impact:
“What’s the goal behind this meeting?”
“How can we streamline this process?”
“What’s the bigger picture here?”
Strategic EAs anticipate, advise, and act.
2. Learn the Business, Not Just the Calendar
Understanding your executive’s schedule is good. Understanding their priorities, pressures, and performance metrics is better. Read the earnings reports. Follow industry news. Know the competitors.
Speak the language of the business, and you become a partner, not a processor.
3. Build a Digital Toolkit
Monique says it best: “If you’re not evolving, you’re dissolving.” Embrace tools that make you faster, smarter, and more agile. Master AI assistants, automation platforms, and project management tools.
Upskilling isn’t optional; it’s your edge.
4. Speak Strategically
Influence isn’t about volume, it’s about value. Frame your communication around outcomes, not just tasks. Offer insights, not just updates.
Confidence is contagious. When you believe in your voice, others will too.
5. Lead with Presence
Details matter, but so does energy, empathy, and emotional intelligence. You set the tone for your executive’s day and often for the entire team. Be the calm in the chaos. Be the person people trust.
Presence is power. Use it wisely.
You are the strategic advantage...
The best EAs don’t wait for permission to lead; they create their own influence. They’re not just behind the scenes—they’re behind the success.
So ask yourself:
“Am I managing tasks, or am I shaping outcomes?”
If you’re ready to evolve from support to strategy, the time is now.
Let’s connect, whether you're hiring or exploring your next move. We’re here to help you navigate the evolving business support landscape across Hong Kong and Singapore.
For tailored insights or to discuss current opportunities, feel free to reach out directly at sm@charlottefrank.com.