About Us

More Than an Association - A Professional Home

The Singapore Association of Administrative Professionals (SAAP) was formed with a simple but powerful belief: that administrative professionals play a vital role in organisational success — and deserve recognition, support, and opportunities to grow.

Over the decades, SAAP has grown alongside the profession itself.

From traditional secretarial roles to today’s strategic administrative and executive professionals, SAAP has remained committed to empowering members through learning, connection, and community.

SAAP Through the Years

SAPES/SAAP Milestone (1971-2026)

1971-1980
1971

Singapore Association of Personal & Executive Secretaries (SAPES) was established.

1974

Published quarterly magazine - Secretary Digest

1975

Joined the Association of Secretaries and Administrative Professionals in Asia Pacific (ASA) as one of its pioneer members.

Celebrated the 1st International Secretaries week.

1978

Hosted 3rd ASA Congress "The Secretary in a Modern Era".

1979

Launched Bosses' Day in Singapore, Boss of the Year Award and Ideal Secretary Award.

Formed a contingent to participate at the National Day Parade.

1980

Joined Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO).

1981-1988
1981

SAPES Community Service cum 10th Anniversary Fundraising - "Presentation of Ambulance to the Handicaps Welfare Association."

1987

Participated in the Implementation of the Certificate in Continuing Education & Development (CEU Award) devised by Singapore Professional Centre (SPC).

1988

First Lady, Mrs. Wee Kim Wee officially opened Children's Charities Association Christmas Fair organised by SAPES. SAPES was presented the Henry Thomas Award as it raised a record of $143,000 for these 2 days event.

2011-2020
2011

40th Anniversary Celebration- "40 & Striving Forward".

2012

Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) as Corporate Member/ Institutional Partner.

2016

Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NTUC
UAssociate as UA partner.

45th Anniversary Celebration - "SAAP @45 Celebrates another milestone".

2018

Website revamped.

2021-2026
2021

50th Anniversary Celebration "Honouring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present and Inspiring our Future".

Completion of the Collective Sale of Maxwell House Office.

2026

Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with EON Consulting & Training Pte Ltd.

55th Anniversary Celebration "Emerald Legacy: Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future".

Built by People, Sustained by Service

SAAP’s journey has always been shaped by dedicated volunteers, committee members, and leaders who gave their time and energy to serve the community.

Across generations, members have stepped forward to organise events, mentor peers, and lead initiatives — not for recognition, but out of a shared commitment to uplift the profession.

SAAP is proud to be a volunteer-led association, guided by collaboration, care, and collective purpose.

Evolving Roles. Enduring Purpose.

The role of administrative professionals has transformed significantly over the years — from support functions to trusted partners, coordinators, and strategic enablers.
SAAP has evolved alongside these changes by:

While tools, titles, and technologies may change, SAAP’s purpose remains constant: to support professionals behind the scenes who make organisations work.

Decades of service to the profession

Hundreds of events and learning sessions

Strong member community across generations

Ongoing partnerships and collaborations

Our Journey Continues

As workplaces continue to evolve, SAAP looks ahead with optimism and purpose.
We remain committed to:

The SAAP story is still being written — and every member is part of that journey.