EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The role of an Executive Assistant in local government – whether supporting the CAO, Deputy CAO, Mayor and Council, or Directors and Managers – is multifaceted and demanding. It requires a blend of skills, from political acumen to advanced leadership capabilities.
From toolkits to professional development, CAMA is pleased to support Executive Assistants working in local government. See the links below.
- Effective Executive Assistant Toolkit
- Executive Assistants National Conference
- EA Master Class Series 2
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 2024 Inaugural CAMA National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government
The inaugural CAMA Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government was a tremendous success, bringing together 170 Executive Assistants from across Canada for an unforgettable experience in Fredericton, New Brunswick from November 3-5, 2024. This milestone event celebrated the vital contributions of Executive Assistants to local government, fostering connections, professional development, and inspiration. From engaging keynotes and interactive workshops to Maritime hospitality and meaningful networking opportunities, the Conference truly embodied the spirit of collaboration and excellence. For a closer look at the highlights and to relive the energy of this groundbreaking event, explore the full Conference overview here.
ON-LINE REGISTRATION LINK
2025 CAMA National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government
CAMA's National Conference for Executive Assistants in Local Government will be held from October 5-7, 2025 at the Delta Ottawa Hotel in Ottawa, Ontario.
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 5, 2025 with Pre-Conference activities scheduled throughout the day, with the Opening Keynote at 5:30 p.m. EST followed by the Welcome Reception. The event will conclude on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. EST.
🔗 View the Full Conference Program
🔗 View the Program-At-A-Glance
Translation Support for Delegates
All sessions at the 2025 EA Conference will be delivered in English. However, we are pleased to offer real-time translation through the Wordly App, allowing delegates to access captions and audio translation in multiple languages directly from their personal devices. This tool is available to all attendees to help ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.
REGISTRATION FEES
Delegate Program
The registration fee includes the Welcome Reception, all Conference sessions, breakfasts, refreshment breaks, lunches and the Casual Night Out. The Program and on-line registration link will be available on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025 at 12:00 Noon EST.
| DELEGATE TYPE | EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION BY AUGUST 1ST, 2025 (+ 13% HST) | REGISTRATION FEE AFTER AUGUST 1ST, 2025 (+13% HST) |
|
Member Municipality (Municipal Government) Choose this category if you work for municipal government and your municipality has a CAO or another employee that is a CAMA member. |
$750.00 + $97.50 HST = $847.50 | $850.00 + $110.50 HST =$960.50 |
|
Non-Member Municipality (Municipal Government) Choose this category if you work for municipal government and your municipality does not have an employee that is a CAMA Member. |
$1150.00 + $149.50 HST = $1299.50 | $1250.00 + $162.50 HST = $1412.50 |
|
Retired Executive Assistant / Student Choose this category if you are a retired Executive Assistant who is no longer actively employed, or you are a student enrolled in a post-secondary educational institution. |
$450.00 + $58.50 HST = $508.50 | $550.00 + $71.50 HST = $621.50 |
|
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 + $162.50 HST = $1412.50 |
$1350.00 + $175.50 HST = $1525.50 |
Companion Program
Companions have the option of joining delegates for the Sunday evening Welcome Reception ($50.00 + HST) and the Monday evening Casual Night Out ($100.00 + HST).
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel Room Block Information
A room block has been secured at the Delta Hotel by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, conveniently located at 101 Lyon Street North, the venue for the Conference. Please use the registration link below or call 1-888-236-2427 (the Global Reservations Line) and ask for the CAMA Room Block to receive the preferred rate. For the quickest and most convenient experience, we highly recommend using the online reservation link. It's faster and easier than calling the global reservation line which is automated and may require a few steps to reach an agent.
Room Block Details:
- Dates: The block is available for arrivals starting Saturday, October 4, 2025, and departures through Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
- Extended Stays: The hotel will honor the group rate for up to three days before October 4 and three days after October 8, subject to availability.
- Cut-Off Date: Reservations must be made by 5:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 (or until the block is sold out).
Hotel Information: Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre
- Deposit Policy: A deposit equal to one night’s room rate plus taxes will be charged to your credit card at the time of booking. This deposit confirms the reservation and will be applied to the first night’s stay upon check-in. You will receive a confirmation for your booking immediately. The receipt for the one night deposit will be sent within 3-5 business days.
- Cancellation Policy: Reservations can be cancelled up to 72 hours prior to arrival without penalty. Cancellations made within 72 hours of arrival will result in a charge equal to one night’s room rate plus taxes.
- Room Rates: All rates are subject to 13% HST and 5% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT).
- Additional Guest Fee: A $20.00 fee applies for each person beyond two guests per room.
| TYPE OF ROOM | ROOM RATE + 13% HST + 5% MAT |
| Traditional Room (Queen/2 Doubles) | $254.00 |
| Deluxe Room (1 King) | $274.00 |
| Club Level Room (1 King) | $344.00 |
CONFERENCE AIRFARE DISCOUNTS
Exclusive Airfare Discounts with Air Canada and WestJet for CAMA Executive Assistant Conference Attendees
We are happy to confirm that for the 2025 CAMA Executive Assistant 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. 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: Ottawa, YOW (CA)
• The travel period begins Saturday, September 27, 2025 and ends Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
• Travel is valid Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Discount Code: TUA2B3J1
For the 2025 CAMA Executive Assistants Conference, WestJet is pleased to offer 5% off Econo and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada and 2% off Econo, 5% off EconoFlex and 10% off Premium base fares for guests travelling Trans-border. No discount will apply to 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: Ottawa, YOW (CA)
• The travel period begins: Saturday, September 27, 2025 and ends Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
Coupon Code for Guest web / Travel Agent web: 4B6O8LQ. Please ensure the code is entered manually rather than copied and pasted.
Promo Code for Travel Agent GDS only: YBC44
FUTURE CONFERENCE LOCATIONS
- October 5-7, 2025 - Ottawa, ON (Delta Ottawa)
- 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 2
Empowering Administrative Excellence in Local Government
Registration Link
Program
Following the tremendous success of our inaugural EA Master Class Series, which focused on Communication Excellence, Navigating Roles & Rules in Local Government, Customer Service Excellence, and Political Acumen, we are excited to introduce Series 2.
In the first series, we delved into the core areas that are fundamental to the role of an Executive Assistant in local government. The positive feedback and impactful outcomes demonstrated the value and relevance of these topics. Building on this success, Series 2 is designed to further enhance your skills and expertise with a deeper exploration of advanced topics essential for your professional growth. Please note that participation in the first series is not a prerequisite for joining Series 2. The detailed program can be found here.
This engaging webinar series includes four dynamic 90-minute sessions led by award-winning speaker Tracey Lorenson, covering key topics essential to the role of Executive Assistants. If you complete all four sessions, you will earn a Certificate of Completion. We are also excited to offer a special bonus Master Class presented by the Elm City Events Team.
ABOUT THE MASTER CLASS SERIES
The role of an Executive Assistant in local government—whether supporting the CAO, Deputy CAO, Mayor and Council, or Directors and Managers—is multifaceted and demanding. It requires a blend of skills, from political acumen to advanced leadership capabilities. As an Executive Assistant, you are not only providing critical support but also taking charge in moments of need, demonstrating your leadership and adaptability.
In the evolving landscape of local government, staying ahead means continuously developing your skills and strategies. How can you confidently tackle new challenges and navigate complex situations?
Series 2 of our EA Master Class Series provides an exceptional opportunity to collaborate with peers who share similar responsibilities and challenges. Each session delivers comprehensive learning experiences, practical tools, and actionable insights designed to elevate your daily performance. Participants will receive pre-session materials, engage in dynamic discussions, and leave with valuable resources, including practical templates and strategies, to enhance their effectiveness in the role and adeptly navigate any challenges that arise.
Join us to elevate your expertise and continue your professional growth in this unique and crucial position.
While we use the title "Executive Assistant" this program is for any administrative professional working in local government.
DATES AND TIMES
|
DATE |
TIME |
TOPIC |
|
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Maximizing Time Management: Unlocking Productivity Strategies for Executive Assistants in Local Government |
|
Thursday, April 24, 2025 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Influencing Team Dynamics: Advanced Collaboration and Leadership Techniques for Executive Assistants |
|
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Strategic Excellence for EAs: Mastering Policies, Procedures, and Meeting Dynamics |
|
Thursday, September 25, 2025 |
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST |
Empowering Executive Assistants: Navigating Challenges with Confidence |
| Bonus Master Class: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST | Event Planning Meets AI: Innovative Strategies for Modern Executive Assistants in Local Government (Elm City Events) |
**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.
Discount for Multiple Attendees: If two or more employees from your municipality attend, you will receive a 10% discount. Please use the code CAMAMC in the "Multiple Attendee Discount" field on the registration form.
|
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 If two or more employees from your municipality attend, receive 10% off. Enter the code CAMAMC under “Multiple Attendee Discount” field on the registration form. |
|
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 Executive Director, at admin@camacam.ca
