Ryan Small

One of the most valuable positions you need when starting or scaling a business internationally is a strong executive assistant.

A great executive assistant helps close the cultural divide. They help you understand how things work locally, how people communicate, how business is handled, and how to move correctly within that culture. At the same time, they learn your culture too, creating a bridge between both worlds.

The second major advantage is language. Having someone who speaks multiple languages is a huge asset. My executive assistant speaks English, Spanish, and French, which allows us to communicate and operate across different environments much more effectively.

Another important factor is representation. A local executive assistant can often represent you in meetings, appointments, and situations when you are unavailable. That local presence and understanding can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

And lastly, you’re creating jobs and opportunities within the local community. Through my executive assistant alone, we’ve been able to connect with and hire several qualified local professionals who became valuable parts of the company.

One thing I think a lot of “passport bros” or men moving abroad get wrong is misunderstanding the role of an executive assistant. If you want the relationship and the business to work successfully, you have to keep it professional. Your assistant may be around you in private meetings, travel settings, or high-trust environments, but you should never mix business with pleasure. Professional boundaries are important. That respect creates trust, stability, and long-term success for both sides.