Secretary vs. Secretariat — What's the Difference?

Secretary refers to an individual responsible for managing administrative, clerical, and other types of duties in an organization or for an individual. The role typically involves organizing files, drafting messages, scheduling appointments, and supporting other staff. On the other hand, Secretariat is a formal term used to describe the administrative office or department that handles specialized tasks, often within large organizations, governmental bodies, or international entities. It consists of a team of individuals, possibly including secretaries, who work collectively to ensure the smooth operation of the organization's administrative functions.

Secretary often demands a set of skills including proficiency in typing, note-taking, record-keeping, and a basic understanding of software applications related to word processing, spreadsheets, and email management. A secretary might also act as the first point of contact for visitors or external communications. In contrast, a Secretariat operates on a broader scale, dealing with overarching administrative responsibilities and may manage significant projects, coordinate between departments, handle large-scale communications, and organize major meetings or events. It doesn't denote a single person but rather a group or department.

The term Secretary can also extend to executive positions; for example, the Secretary of State or Secretary of Defense in the U.S. government. These roles are less about clerical tasks and more about high-level decision-making, policy management, and national issues. However, a Secretariat in a similar context would refer to the entire department or office these Secretaries oversee, comprising staff and resources dedicated to the function of that specific governmental branch.

In a corporate setting, a Secretary could refer to a corporate secretary, someone who ensures the company complies with regulatory requirements and legal standards, maintaining records of board actions. A Secretariat, however, may refer to an entity within a corporation that's responsible for certain functions or committees, such as the secretariat of a corporate governance committee or an annual general meeting, overseeing broad administrative tasks.

The professional image of a Secretary has evolved significantly with the advancement of technology and administrative demands, transitioning from purely clerical tasks to more dynamic roles including administrative assistant or executive assistant. Conversely, the term Secretariat has remained relatively stable in its meaning, continuing to represent an administrative hub within an organization or government, essential for streamlined operations and communications.