An Executive Assistant works at the C-Level... for an executive officer, in other words an EVP or higher.  CEO, CFO, CLO, COO, etc.  The Executive assistant is generally more experienced because that is who these executives recruit.  An EA may supervise and/or delegate work to the AA.  An EA also will have more input in choosing work-related software and hardware, catering and event vendors and the like and will have increased exposure to very confidential corporate issues and communications. An EA must be at the top of their game, professional look and demeanor, able to meet and greet at any level.

The AA generally will work for a senior manager or a couple junior managers and/or their department. The AA has less experience and no corporate level demand. This person will have good but not great computer and communication skills and will lack the depth acquired over time by an EA.  With time, the right AA will BECOME an EA. 

The AA wears Banana Republic.  The EA wears Jones New York.

Input provided by an EA, formerly an AA.  22 years career experience.  SF Financial District.