London Chamber on the hunt for top PA

The award is the first of its kind in London, and the chamber claims this reflects the increased profile of the industry in the business world.

Colin Stanbridge, chief executive of the LCCI said: "PAs now fulfil a crucial role in the business world and it is with awards like this one that they are finally getting the recognition they so richly deserve.

"We are encouraging businesses of all shapes and sizes and from all corners of the capital to submit their nominations and prove why one of their PAs should be named as London's best."

Nominees will be asked to demonstrate "outstanding performance" in the four key areas of communication, organisation, flexibility and initiative.

The finalists will gather at the Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Hotel in central London on March 23, and the recipient of the award will receive two first-class tickets to New York and a three-night stay at a Manhattan hotel.

A survey of PAs by Kingston University and Global PA network this October found that some top City executive assistants can earn more than £100,000, and around 60 per cent earn between £25,000 and £40,000.

Around 37 per cent oversee other staff, while 35 per cent manage budgets, 29 per cent get involved in training and 25 per cent deputise for their manager.

The chamber observed that networking events are now appearing in the capital to allow PAs to trade advice and promote their company. PAs now have their own dedicated industry group at the LCCI.

Companies must have been in business for a minimum of two years on February 1 2010, which is the closing date.

All entries should be sent to London Chamber of Commerce PA of the Year, 33 Queen Street, London, EC4R 1AP.

Go to londonchamber.co.uk.