Industry Insights: The Admin's Perspective in Entertainment/Media

Welcome to our new Industry Interview series! ASAP offers a welcoming space for admins to discuss their career trajectories, professional successes, and personal experiences. We hope this series displays the diversity of the profession by highlighting the unique experiences and/or challenges admins in specific industries face.

This month, we're spotlighting Darcy Bennet, an entertainment/media admin. Read on to discover more about her personal journey towards becoming an Executive Assistant to the VP of Finance at ABC News!

How did you first get started as an EA in the media industry, and what led you to your current role at ABC News?

Darcy Bennet: My journey to ABC News was a bit unexpected! I honed my EA skills in fast-paced environments like publishing and fashion e-commerce, where I supported multiple executives and managed online campaigns. At Live Story, I even got to experience the media side of things through content creation and digital marketing. But, I was always drawn to the impact of traditional media, so when I saw the opening at ABC News, it felt like the perfect fit. Now I’m thrilled to be contributing my skills to such a dynamic and impactful organization.

What does your day-to-day schedule currently look like?

Let's just say there's never a dull moment at ABC News! My days are a dynamic mix of calendar management, project coordination, and problem solving. One day I might be organizing a complex international conference call, the next I'm creating presentations or collaborating with EAs across The Walt Disney Company. It's challenging, rewarding, and always keeps me on my toes!

The media industry can be fast-paced and unpredictable. How do you stay organized and manage your priorities in such a dynamic environment?

The key to staying organized in the media industry is a combination of mindset and adaptability. I go into each day with a plan, but I also know that things can change in an instant. Being able to shift gears quickly and re-prioritize tasks is crucial. It is also important to be proactive, prepare for potential challenges, and have backup plans in place. 

What unique challenges have you faced in supporting the VP of Finance at a major news organization, especially during breaking news or high-stakes events?

Breaking news can really shake things up! While finance might not be on the front lines like the newsroom, we definitely feel the impact. I've had times where emergency meetings or sudden shifts in priorities meant reshuffling entire days, sometimes at a moment's notice. It requires a lot of flexibility and quick thinking to make sure everyone stays informed and aligned, even when the schedule is in flux.

What skills do entertainment/media admins need to succeed in their role?

In my experience at ABC News, I've found that active listening and proactive problem solving are absolutely essential. You work with so many different personalities, from high-profile executives to creative teams, and building strong relationships is crucial. That means truly hearing what people need and finding solutions before they become problems. Of course, the foundational skills are still key—organization, communication, prioritization—but being able to stay calm under pressure and adapt to the unexpected is what really sets you apart in this industry.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become an admin in this industry?

Never stop learning! The media landscape is constantly changing, so be curious and embrace new technologies and ways of working. Seek out mentors, attend workshops, and stay informed about industry trends. Also, don't underestimate the power of networking. Connect with other admins, attend industry events, and build relationships that can support your growth. 

More About Darcy:

Darcy Bennet is an accomplished Executive Assistant with a passion for streamlining operations and empowering executives to perform at their best. She thrives in dynamic environments, bringing extensive experience from diverse industries such as media (Disney/ABC News), publishing (Macmillan Learning), fashion e-commerce (Live Story), and engineering. Darcy is adept at managing complex calendars, coordinating events, and mastering the art of communication to ensure seamless workflow.

A firm believer in continuous improvement, Darcy is committed to expanding her skillset through professional development and embracing innovative technologies. She is an active member in the administrative professional community, eager to connect with and learn from fellow EAs. Darcy is enthusiastic about sharing her knowledge and insights to contribute to the growth and advancement of the profession.

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