Diana Brandl is a longtime C-Suite assistant, and host of the Executive Office Insights podcast.

In this spotlight episode, explore how service skills evolve into strategy as Heleen Vink shares her path from hospitality to supporting the CEO of Ingka Group (IKEA), the calendar audit that reset priorities, and the systems that protect deep work and drive stakeholder engagement. Heleen and Diana also outline how to build an internal assistant network and keep balance through community and creativity.

Topics covered:

hospitality foundations shaping executive support
moving from generalist skills to a stakeholder specialty
the structure and roles inside a lean CEO support team
how to run a calendar audit and turn data into priorities
setting non‑negotiables like protected work‑alone time
building an internal assistant network with clear purpose
learning by doing: speeches, reports, and projects
finding your voice and influence with direct feedback
sustainable work life balance through support systems
music as a tool for confidence, presence, and renewal

Enjoy!

Show notes → leaderassistant.com/372

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#372: A Conversation with Heleen Vink - Management Assistant to the Deputy CEO & CFO at Ingka Group | IKEA

The Leader Assistant Podcast with Jeremy Burrows

#372: A Conversation with Heleen Vink - Management Assistant to the Deputy CEO & CFO at Ingka Group | IKEA