The Cyprus branch of the International Management Assistants (IMA Cyprus) recently held its 37th Annual General Meeting in Nicosia, bringing together members to reflect on the past year and discuss priorities for the future. While the AGM marked an important milestone for the Association, it also provided an opportunity to reflect on the changing world of work and the evolving role of Management Support Professionals within modern organisations.
Today’s Management Support Professionals—including Personal Assistants (PAs), Executive Assistants (EAs), and Management Assistants (MAs)—contribute far beyond traditional administrative responsibilities. Their roles increasingly include project coordination, stakeholder management, communication, governance support, event management, and direct contribution to leadership effectiveness and organisational success.
This evolution is reinforced by the findings of the Global Skills Matrix 2026 (GSM), developed by the World Administrators Alliance, which highlights a clear global trend: the profession is evolving faster than many organisational structures, job descriptions, and career pathways. Early insights from Cyprus align with this broader international picture. The capability and contribution of Management Support Professionals are already there. However, job titles, role definitions, career progression, and recognition have not always kept pace with the reality of the role.
For organisations, this presents an important opportunity. As workplaces become increasingly complex and influenced by Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation, and changing workforce expectations, organisations need highly skilled professionals who can support leaders, improve efficiency, facilitate collaboration, and contribute strategically to business objectives.
Just as executives benefit from belonging to professional bodies and business networks, Management Support Professionals also benefit from being part of a professional community where they can learn, network, share experiences, and access international best practices. Investing in the professional development of Management Support Professionals is therefore not only an investment in individuals, but also an investment in leadership effectiveness, organisational resilience, and business performance.
Organisations that encourage their Management Support Professionals to participate in professional communities benefit from access to new ideas, international best practices, continuous learning, and stronger professional networks.
Looking ahead, IMA Cyprus will continue to focus on:
• Promoting awareness of the Global Skills Matrix in Cyprus
• Strengthening collaboration with organisations, educational institutions, and business bodies
• Supporting students and younger professionals entering the profession
• Creating opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development
• Increasing dialogue between employers and Management Support Professionals
IMA Cyprus is also a member of the Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) and the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), strengthening its links with the wider business community. As organisations continue to evolve, so does the role of the Management Support Professional. IMA Cyprus remains committed to supporting professionals and organisations alike by promoting learning, networking, international collaboration, and professional recognition.
IMA Cyprus welcomes opportunities to collaborate with organisations, business bodies, and educational institutions that share its commitment to professional development, lifelong learning, and the future of work.
About IMA Cyprus
IMA Cyprus is the Cyprus branch of the International Management Assistants (IMA), a global professional network established in 1974 and represented in countries across Europe and beyond. The Association brings together Management Support Professionals committed to continuous learning, professional excellence, and international collaboration. Through professional development events, networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, and access to a global community, IMA supports its members in navigating the evolving workplace and strengthening their professional impact.
In Cyprus, IMA works to promote the profession, support its members, foster connections with organisations and educational institutions, and contribute to discussions on the future of work and leadership support. IMA Cyprus is also a member of the Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) and the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), strengthening its links with the wider business community.
Why Encourage Your PA or EA to Join IMA Cyprus?
Today's Personal Assistants, Executive Assistants, and Management Support Professionals do far more than provide administrative support. They help leaders manage complexity, coordinate stakeholders, improve communication, and contribute to organisational effectiveness.
Just as Executives benefit from belonging to professional associations and business networks, Management Support Professionals also benefit from being part of a professional community where they can learn, exchange ideas, and access international best practices. This investment strengthens not only the individual but also the organisation.
Through IMA Cyprus, members gain access to:
• Professional development and lifelong learning
• Local and international networking opportunities
• Global insights, including the Global Skills Matrix
• Sharing of best practices and experiences
• A community of peers who understand the evolving profession
By supporting your PA or EA to be part of IMA Cyprus, you are investing in stronger leadership support, organisational effectiveness, and future-ready talent.
Membership is not simply a benefit for the employee — it is an investment in the organisation.
Global Skills Matrix: www.globalskillsmatrix.com
For Further Information
Annita Haralambous Eftekhar
National Chair, IMA Cyprus
Styliana Pontiki-Drege
National MarCom Officer, IMA Cyprus
