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 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 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).
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 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
