Kate Fatkulova is an Executive Assistant at MAVRIK CORP., where she supports two Vice Presidents in managing strategic projects, coordinating cross-team priorities, and organizing company-wide initiatives.

She has a diverse background in project management, having worked as a Project Manager for a European Commission–funded initiative, as well as supporting senior executives at Amazon and Northvolt. She studied Mathematics and Statistics at Concordia University and is currently pursuing her PMP certification.

Kate stands out for her ability to structure, mobilize, and drive complex projects forward in dynamic, cross-sector environments.

With over fifteen years of experience as an Administrative Assistant across diverse industries, including real estate and consulting, I have had the privilege of building my career progressively—learning on the job, seizing opportunities, and fully committing myself to each role. Along the way, I have greatly expanded my skill set. I take great pride in having earned the trust of both peers and leaders, advancing through the ranks, and developing strong relationships at the highest levels of the organizations I’ve worked with. Today, I hold a more senior position, while still embracing the assistant role, because I can truly say—I am right where I belong.

This journey was built on hard work, perseverance, and a deep conviction: you must dare to ask, raise your hand, and believe in your worth. That confidence did not come naturally—I developed it over time—and it is precisely what I now wish to share with the next generation.

Becoming a mentor is, for me, a natural and deeply motivating next step. I want to support other assistants in believing in their potential, claiming their place, and navigating their professional environments with confidence. I am convinced that mentorship is a powerful lever for building strong careers, and I sincerely wish to contribute to such an initiative.

As a mentor, my goal is to offer a space for listening, sharing, and growth to someone who is beginning their career or looking to advance in their role. I firmly believe that mentorship is a mutually enriching process—for both the mentee and the mentor—and I am excited at the prospect of embarking on this journey.

My name is Geneviève Thibault, and I am the Executive Assistant to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Pomerleau. In this role, I ensure and coordinate the administrative activities of the CFO and certain Finance teams to help them achieve both their professional and team objectives.

I began my career in a completely different field as a chemical-biology technician. While I have always loved science, I missed the human connection. This led me to transition into administrative and coordination roles in the pharmaceutical industry before making the move to executive assistant positions in finance, engineering consulting, and now construction.

Over the years, I have added several tools to my professional toolkit, including a bachelor’s degree in Translation from UQTR and a coaching certification from Concordia’s John Molson School of Business. These have greatly helped me develop my full potential and expand the support I provide to executives and teams.

At my core, I love learning from others and working collaboratively. Making a difference in my career, in my personal life, and in my role as a coach are my main goals—the driving forces that motivate me every day.

I have been an executive assistant for over 10 years, and I never tire of it! Through my experiences in various business sectors, from SMEs to large corporations, I have developed a strong ability to adapt, having collaborated with diverse personalities, built strong interpersonal relationships, learned to be highly organized, and effectively manage my priorities.

My previous 10 years of experience in the tourism industry, specifically in the airline sector, have also provided me with customer service expertise, as well as skills in conflict and stress management.

In the role of an executive assistant, you can thrive and step out of your comfort zone by organizing various events, being the point of contact for teams, making decisions, participating in projects, following up on tasks, and more, which suits the active woman that I am perfectly.

The most important task is to support your manager in their daily activities and to lighten their workload as much as possible. These are people who don’t have time, who travel a lot around the world, and who are constantly in meetings. I believe that the key is to have a good “fit” with your manager. It is much easier to work with someone with whom you share an extraordinary rapport.

I would love to share my expertise and skills with you through this mentorship program, which I am sure will be mutually beneficial.

For over twenty years, I have worked as an EA, having had the privilege of supporting leaders and their teams in dynamic environments such as information technology, mining, aviation, and professional services. What excites me most about this role? Being the one who facilitates, anticipates, and ensures that everything runs smoothly so others can perform at their best. People often describe me as organized, discreet, and always one step ahead—qualities that, over time, have become my true professional signature.

Today, I support the General Manager of ELIP Canada at ABB, a role that allows me to leverage my experience in service of a dynamic team and a stimulating environment. Previously, I had the opportunity to work alongside inspiring leaders at Talan Americas, Minerai de fer Québec, and CAE Inc., where I learned to navigate demanding contexts while keeping people at the heart of my priorities.

Beyond work, my greatest pride is being the mother of two amazing teenagers. I also find deep meaning in my volunteer work as secretary of the Ozias-Leduc High School Foundation in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a cause that is very close to my heart.

I truly believe that EAs are real superheroes for those who need extra support. Becoming an excellent executive assistant takes time, practice, and yes, sometimes mistakes. But once you master the craft, you become the person your leaders and teams simply cannot do without. We are not merely support—we become indispensable to their success and well-being.

It would be a tremendous honour for me to mentor someone eager to develop confidence in themselves and their work, helping them discover the full value and strength they bring to every role they undertake.

Since May 2022, I have held the position of Executive Assistant at BRP, a global leader in the manufacturing of recreational vehicles. In this role, I support the Vice President of the Global Customer Digital Experience team and her three directors, in a dynamic, stimulating, and demanding work environment.

As an Assistant, I am the gatekeeper of time, as no appointments can be confirmed without going through me. I am also a logistics wizard when it comes to planning and organizing corporate events, as one must anticipate everything, even the unexpected. During corporate events, the Assistant must ensure that all participants’ needs are taken into account, from venue setup to meal preparation, and especially when information is communicated before, during, and after the event. Nothing can be left to chance.

On a daily basis, I also serve as a key point of contact for resolving administrative issues related to meeting follow-ups, the use of office equipment and supplies, as well as the onboarding of new employees.

Over the course of my extensive career, spanning more than three decades, I have held various positions within large corporations like Alcan and Astral Media (Canal Indigo). Between 1990 and 2006, I climbed the ranks, starting as an administrative assistant, then coordinator, and eventually becoming the General Manager of the Société de développement du boulevard Saint-Laurent in 2006. In 2008, after establishing a large network of contacts, I started my own business, offering customized administrative support and project management services to business owners with 40 employees or fewer, to help them lighten their workload and achieve their performance goals more quickly. In 2022, after 14 years of being self-employed, I chose to become an employee again and took on the role of Assistant on a permanent basis.

I have the pleasure of working as an administrative assistant at the Desjardins Movement for 10 years. For the past 3 years, I have been collaborating with the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at the Desjardins Movement, and I am eager to share this passion for administrative work with other assistants. I am also very interested in exploring different work environments, sharing practical methods and tips, and discussing the evolving profession of administrative assistants in this professional era shaped by artificial intelligence. Holding a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Montreal, I have a passion for movement and physical activity. Being a high performer at work; running, meditation & yoga are essential for maintaining balance and calming myself!

Supporting my manager in coordinating her work, as well as strategically planning various committees, meetings, and events; this is how I would describe my role on the team.Managing the calendar takes a central place in my work; I affectionately call this task my favorite game of Tetris! My prioritization (and re-prioritization!) skills, great versatility, and resourcefulness are appreciated by my manager. I constantly strive to balance attention to detail with work done quickly and under pressure. My strong ability to read my social and work environment is helpful in my daily tasks. As an assistant often represents her manager, I commit to professionalism and rigor. Emotional intelligence is crucial; kindness, thoughtfulness, and confidentiality are dear to me and are reflected in my work.

I thrive on energizing stress; the kind that motivates and elevates us, allowing us to accomplish great things and a multitude of small ones!

For nearly 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting senior executives in dynamic industries such as professional sports, logistics, and retail. I’ve built my career on three pillars: rigor, discretion, and a strong sense of service—always with a keen eye for detail.

Fully bilingual, I specialize in managing complex calendars, coordinating business travel, and, above all, anticipating needs. This ability has allowed me to earn the trust of presidents, founders, and top executives—while keeping both feet firmly on the ground.

With three children actively involved in sports, my daily life often mirrors my work: lots of planning, a few unexpected surprises… and always a good dose of organization!

I genuinely enjoy working as part of a team and am always happy to lend a hand to colleagues, no matter the role or challenge. To me, the greatest successes are always built together.

Now, I’m eager to give back by sharing practical advice, tools, and real-world experience to inspire the next generation!

Dominique Sauvé is a seasoned professional in executive support and administrative management, with over 15 years of experience working alongside senior leaders in major organizations such as Montréal–Trudeau International Airport, CAE, Groupe CH, and Quebecor Sports and Entertainment. Fully bilingual in French and English, she excels in the strategic management of complex calendars, event and travel coordination, as well as the preparation of high-level documents and presentations.

Recognized for her discretion, organizational skills, and professionalism, Dominique has also led administrative and commercial operations in the private golf industry, where she distinguished herself through outstanding client service and process optimization. Her versatility, rigor, and dedication make her a strategic asset to any organization that values excellence and collaboration.

I started my career as a secretary in the early ‘90s, a position I held for about 12 years. My career path then led me to sales as a major account representative, where I stayed for a little over 10 years. Making the most of my secretarial experience, the company’s president gradually delegated all the administrative tasks supporting the sales team to me, while I continued to carry out my role as a representative. Over the years, I realized that being an administrative assistant was my passion.

Seven years ago, I left the company and my work as an account representative. Ever since, I have been working as assistant to the CEO, the president and the two vice presidents in the construction division.

Today, I want to pass on my knowledge and expertise to the next generation and help them discover the wonderful profession of executive assistant.

It was in July 2000, at CEA Inc. that I got my first look at the career: I was given my first chance! There, I learned the rudiments and created my own position of Executive Assistant. I continued this adventure at Cirque du Soleil, and I am now employed at Sagard since May 2020.

On top of the administrative aspect, the wide scope of the position makes it fascinating to me because it requires a perfect balance between relationships, strategy, and technique.

When you combine a motivating environment, with high growth, an inclusive team and bosses work together: the sky is the limit!

There is no small task, I seize every opportunity with a positive attitude, add my personality into it and create a lever effect for my colleagues. I relive this experience every day and never take anything for granted.

I am proud to be in this pivotal role and taking care of my career. Having the opportunity to bring to the light other Assistants through the mentorship program is an accomplishment and enriching challenge.

As a Senior Technician and Administrative Team Lead, I bring over ten years of experience in the private sector, where I notably served as the right hand to a company president before joining the public service nearly three years ago within a general management office. Driven by natural curiosity, a genuine interest in people, and a fascination for technology, I place continuous improvement at the core of my work—a true driver of performance for my team.

Specialized in process optimization, change management, the implementation of new technologies, and administrative innovation, I am committed to creating agile, structured, and future-oriented work environments. I firmly believe that team engagement and the recognition of employee achievements are essential levers to foster commitment, strengthen cohesion, and support the achievement of common goals. With my technological expertise and ability to see beyond day-to-day mandates, I help organizations pursue sustainable growth by actively contributing to their transformation.

Proud of my journey, I strongly believe in the importance of developing the next generation and the vital role we play in guiding them. For me, mentorship is a natural extension of leadership: sharing knowledge, guiding, and inspiring the next generation are integral parts of my professional mission. I also attach great importance to the positive impact we can have in our communities, by acting as role models of commitment, solidarity, and collective progress.

Early in my career, I quickly developed a passion for knowledge transfer. For 11 years, I combined my role as an assistant with that of a Quality Coordinator. In this position, I was responsible for ISO 9001 training for all new employees as well as ongoing training.

For nearly 30 years, I have been supporting new employees during their onboarding. I have been actively involved in training new administrative assistants as they began their careers. I particularly valued my role as Team Lead for the assistants’ team during my time at iA Financial Group. This position required both advanced administrative support skills and strong interpersonal abilities to understand their challenges and aspirations, and to identify opportunities for development.

I am a warm, open-minded person, deeply committed to creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and confident to express themselves without judgment. When I commit to a project, I do so wholeheartedly. It is important for the mentee to know that their mentor will take the process seriously and invest herself fully as well. Over the years, I have faced countless situations without easy or immediate solutions. This requires resourcefulness, proactivity, and quickly developing a strong network. Priority management, flexibility, and the ability to “pivot” rapidly are essential in our role. These skills are just some examples of the areas of growth from which a mentee could benefit.

Through my volunteer experiences, I have realized how important it is for me to give back and support others in their own journey.

A seasoned executive support professional, she brings over 25 years of experience working with senior leaders of regional, national, and international organizations. Bilingual and recognized for her leadership, rigor, and organizational skills, she has consistently excelled in complex and demanding environments.

Since 2019, she has served as Executive Assistant at Groupe Robert, working closely with senior management and acting as Secretary of the Board of Directors. Previously, she spent more than a decade at Lone Star Funds, where she held senior administrative roles across North America, contributing notably to the establishment of offices in several major cities. She also brought her expertise to Investissements PSP, Rona, Molson Canada, and Nova Bus, building solid experience in strategic coordination, governance, team management, and event planning.

Her career reflects great versatility, exceptional adaptability, and a constant commitment to excellence.

I am currently the Executive Assistant to the CEO of Aragain Management, a family office, where I manage complex calendars, plan international travel, organize national and international strategic meetings, and coordinate projects involving multiple stakeholders.

My older sister, also an executive assistant, inspired me to pursue this career. From the very beginning, I knew it was my path: being at the heart of the action, supporting senior leadership, understanding the company’s overall vision, and contributing meaningfully to it. Working alongside seasoned executives not only provides a unique perspective on strategic challenges but also gives me the satisfaction of knowing that my work helps drive the success of the entire team.

With over 15 years of experience supporting executives, managing projects, and overseeing internal and external relationships, I have collaborated with international organizations such as Northvolt, Rio Tinto, and Saputo. I have developed strong expertise in optimizing administrative processes, preparing and tracking strategic files, coordinating corporate events, and professional communication. I also make it a priority to stay up to date on tools and solutions that can make our tasks simpler and more efficient, as time is a precious resource.

Over the years, I have learned to recognize the right moment to raise an important issue, maintain composure in complex situations, and focus my energy on finding solutions rather than panicking.

As a mother of three, I have become highly organized and skilled at managing priorities with rigor, while remaining available and flexible. A polyglot (French, English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese), I enjoy connecting people, building bridges across cultures, and working hand in hand with colleagues to achieve shared goals. For me, being an executive assistant is not just a job—it is a true vocation.