EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
NEW! CAMA has launched a new chapter - the Canadian Association of Municipal Executive Assistants (CAMEA) - to support and connect Executive Assistants and administrative professionals working in local government across Canada.
CAMEA membership officially opens on January 7, 2026, and we’re excited to share our Membership Value Proposition, which outlines the many benefits, engagement opportunities, and exclusive resources available to members.
2026–2027 Membership Rates:
• $250/year if your municipality has a CAMA member.
• $400/year if your municipality does not have a CAMA member.
(Sign up in January 2026 and receive 3 months free!)
🔗 Read the full announcement
🔗 Download the Membership Value Proposition
EMPOWERING EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS: CAMA'S COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT
The role of an Executive Assistant in local government – whether supporting the CAO, Deputy CAO, Mayor and Council, or senior leadership - requires a unique blend of skills, from political acumen to advanced leadership capabilities.
From toolkits to professional development, CAMA is proud to support Executive Assistants working in local government. Explore the links below:
- Effective Executive Assistant Toolkit
- Executive Assistants National Conference
- EA Master Class Series
TOOLKIT FOR THE EFFECTIVE EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS
Having appreciation for the role of the Executive Assistant in local government, the CAMA Board developed a “Toolkit for the Effective Executive Assistant to the Chief Administrative Officer”.
The primary audience of this Toolkit is the Executive Assistant to the CAO in local government (and all administrative staff), which includes existing Executive Assistants with experience in the role, as well as new Executive Assistants with minimal local government experience.
While this Toolkit is meant to be a resource to Executive Assistants in local government, it is also focused on how a CAO or senior manager can effectively use their Executive Assistant to improve their own productivity and build a successful partnership. The more effective the Executive Assistant, the more effective the CAO…and the more effective the organization, Council, and the community.
Visit this link to to learn more and see some best practices for the Executive Assistant and CAO.
CAMA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Celebrating Success: Highlights from the CAMA National Conferences for Executive Assistants in Local Government
The CAMA National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government has quickly become a signature event, celebrating the vital contributions of Executive Assistants to municipal leadership across Canada.
2024 – Fredericton, New Brunswick:
Our inaugural conference in Fredericton set the stage for something truly special. Over 170 Executive Assistants from across the country came together for the first time to connect, learn, and celebrate their essential role in local government. The event was filled with energy, inspiration, and a deep sense of community that continues to grow today.
👉 Explore the 2024 Fredericton Conference Overview
2025 – Ottawa, Ontario:
The momentum continued in our Nation’s Capital, where more than 200 Executive Assistants gathered for the 2nd Annual Conference from October 5–7, 2025. With powerful keynotes, interactive workshops, and a memorable Red and White Canadian Night, this event embodied collaboration, learning, and national pride.
👉 Explore the 2025 Ottawa Conference Overview
Together, these two conferences have built a strong foundation for professional development, networking, and recognition of Executive Assistants in local government — and we can’t wait to see what’s next in Calgary in 2026!
2026 CAMEA National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government
CAMEA's National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government will be held from October 4-6, 2026 at the Westin Calgary Hotel (Calgary, AB).
The target audience for this event is Executive Assistants working in local government in Canada, which may include Administrative Assistants, Legislative Coordinators, Office Coordinators, Clerks/Treasurers, and any front line or clerical staff that assist our members.
This event will provide a networking and professional development forum for Executive Assistants to reconnect, collaborate, share their success, and learn about the latest trends with their peers.
The Conference will officially begin on Sunday, October 4, 2026 with Pre-Conference activities scheduled throughout the day, with the Opening Ceremonies at 5:00 p.m. MST, Opening Keynote at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Welcome Reception. The event will conclude on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. MST.
The hotel room block and full Conference program will be available in April 2026.
REGISTRATION FEES
Delegate Program
The registration fee includes the Welcome Reception, all Conference sessions, breakfasts, refreshment breaks, lunches and the Casual Night Out. Registration fees are determined by individual membership in the Canadian Association of Municipal Executive Assistants (CAMEA), rather than by your municipality's membership in CAMA.
| DELEGATE TYPE |
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION BY AUGUST 1ST, 2026 (+ 5% GST) |
REGISTRATION FEE AFTER AUGUST 1ST, 2026 (+5% GST) |
|
CAMEA Member Rate - Choose this category if you are a member of CAMEA. |
$750.00 + $37.50 GST = $787.50 | $850.00 + $42.50 = $892.50 |
|
Non-Member Rate (Municipal) - Choose this category if you are not a member of CAMEA but work for a municipality. |
$1150.00 + $57.50 GST = $1207.50 | $1250.00 + $62.50 GST = $1312.50 |
| CAMEA Associate Member Rate - Choose this category if you are an Association CAMEA member (an individual or organization that supports CAMEA's mission but are not employed in a municipal administrative role; a not-for-profit/government academic; or for-profit/consultant. | $1150.00 + 57.50 GST = $1207.50 | $1250.00 +$62.50 = $1312.50 |
|
CAMEA Retired Member Rate - Choose this category if you are a retired CAMEA member. |
$450.00 + $22.50 GST = $472.50 | $550.00 + $27.50 GST = $577.50 |
|
Non-Member (Non-Municipal) - Choose this category if you do not work for local government. This could include the provincial government, federal government, or a private business. |
$1250.00 + $62.50 GST = $1312.50 |
$1350.00 + $67.50 = $1417.50 |
Companion Program
Companions have the option of joining delegates for the Sunday evening Welcome Reception ($50.00 + GST) and the Monday evening Casual Night Out ($100.00 + GST).
Conference Airfare Discounts - Exclusive Airfare Discounts with Air Canada and WestJet for CAMA Conference Attendees
Air Canada
We are happy to confirm that for the 2026 CAMEA Conference, Air Canada offers a discount for North America travel: 5% applies on standard fares, and 10% on flex fares & higher. For International Travel there is a 10% discount on standard fares and higher. 12% discount on Business Class fares (exception: 5% on the lowest Business Class). You will need the discount code listed below to take advantage of this offer. Please visit the Air Canada website to make a booking online.
Applicable Rules
- The booking is to be made to the following City: Calgary, YYC (CA)
- The travel period begins Saturday, September 26, 2026 and ends Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
- Travel is valid Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- Discount Code: C7FGDNB1
Westjet
For the 2026 CAMEA Conference, WestJet is pleased to offer 5% off Econo and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada. No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings. To take advantage of this offer, you will need the discount code listed below. Please visit the Westjet website to make a booking online.
Applicable Rules
- The booking is to be made to the following City: Calgary, YYC (CA)
- The travel period begins: September 26, 2026 and ends October 14, 2026
Coupon Code for Guest web / Travel Agent web: 8X1S0MN / Promo Code for Travel Agent GDS only: YBW08
FUTURE CONFERENCE LOCATIONS
- October 4-6, 2026 - Calgary, AB (Westin Calgary)
- October 3-5, 2027 - St. John's, NL (Delta St. John's)
- October 1-3, 2028 - Ottawa, ON (Delta Ottawa)
CAMA EA MASTER CLASS SERIES 3
PROGRAM l REGISTRATION LINK
Following the overwhelming success of Series 1 and 2 of the Executive Assistant Master Classes, we are thrilled to introduce Series 3 — a transformative next step in your professional development journey as an Executive Assistant in local government.
While the first two series explored core topics such as communications, governance, political acumen, time management, and strategic excellence, Series 3 turns the focus inward – on mastering the human side of leadership and professional resilience. This new lineup explores how emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and cultural awareness empower Executive Assistants to lead with confidence, composure, and authenticity in a complex municipal environment.
👉The full Program can be found here.
Through four interactive webinars and one special bonus session, participants will learn how to integrate neuroscience and emotional intelligence for mind-body resilience; remain calm and in control under pressure; apply Indigenous protocols and engagement practices with authenticity; and draw wisdom from peers at every stage of the EA journey. The series concludes with an inspiring bonus session that challenges participants to “Make the Leap to Remarkable.”
Each session features expert facilitation, real-world examples, and practical takeaways that can be applied immediately in your role. Series 3 is designed as a stand-alone learning experience—no prior participation in Series 1 or 2 is required. Whether you’re new to the profession or continuing your learning journey, these sessions deliver fresh insights, inspiration, and skills you can put into action right away.
Participants who attend all four sessions will receive a Certificate of Completion recognizing their professional learning achievement. The bonus webinar is optional and does not have to be attended to receive your certificate.
CONTINUE YOUR LEARNING JOURNEY: ACCESS SERIES 1 & 2 RECORDINGS
If you missed the first two Master Class Series, recordings of Series 1 and 2 are available for purchase at $200 per series. Each series offers valuable insights and practical tools that you can explore at your own pace to strengthen your effectiveness and confidence as an Executive Assistant in local government.
Series 1:
- Communications Excellence
- Navigating Roles & Rules in Local Government
- Customer Service Excellence
- Navigating Political Acumen
Series 2:
- Maximizing Time Management: Unlocking Productivity Strategies for Executive Assistants in Local Government
- Influencing Team Dynamics: Advanced Collaboration and Leadership Techniques for Executive Assistants
- Strategic Excellence for EAs: Mastering Policies, Procedures, and Meeting Dynamics
- Empowering Executive Assistants: Navigating Challenges with Confidence
To purchase Series 1 and Series 2 recordings, please contact the CAMEA National Office at info@cameacanada.ca
DATES AND TIMES
|
DATE |
TIME |
TOPIC |
|
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 |
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST |
Mind-Body Resilience: Integrating Neuroscience with Emotional Intelligence |
|
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Staying Calm Under Pressure: Building Mental Resilience and Mastering Verbal De-escalation |
|
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Beyond Acknowledgement: Applying Indigenous Protocols with Confidence in Local Government |
|
Thursday, September 10, 2026 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Lessons from the Journey: EA Wisdom at Every Stage |
| Bonus Master Class: Wednesday, November 18, 2026 | 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST | Make the Leap to Remarkable |
**Please note that each webinar covers a different topic, so attendance at all sessions is not required.
REGISTRATION FEES AND REGISTRATION LINK
The cost for each webinar is detailed below for both members and non-members. You can choose to register for individual sessions or the entire series of four webinars. Additionally, the bonus Master Class can be purchased separately or at a discounted rate when bundled with the full series. Recordings of each session will be available to all registrants, so you can access them if you are unable to attend live.
Please note that we are currently in a transition year between CAMA and CAMEA (our new Chapter Association - Canadian Association of Municipal Executive Assistants). For Series 3 only, member eligibility follows current CAMA-based criteria (i.e. your municipality has a CAMA member). Future programs under CAMEA will use CAMEA membership for member rate.
|
REGISTRATION CATEGORY |
DESCRIPTION OF REGISTRATION CATEGORY |
PRICE (+15% HST) |
|
CAMA Member Pricing |
If your municipality has a CAMA member (regular or affiliate) you will be eligible for the CAMA member rate. To qualify for the member rate, you must enter the name of the CAMA Member from your municipality when registering. |
• One Webinar: $149.00
|
|
Non-Member Pricing |
If your municipality does not have a CAMA member, you will register under the non-member rate. If your CAO or one of the direct reports to the CAO would like to become a member please visit the CAMA website. |
• One Webinar: $199.00 • Four Webinars: $699.00 Bonus Webinar: • $149.00 if bundled with four webinars • $199.00 if purchased separately |
If you have any questions please contact Jennifer Goodine, CAMA/CAMEA Executive Director, at info@cameacanada.ca
