Virtual executive assistant

Hi there, I require an executive assistant to work with me remotely.

I used the word 'executive' as opposite to just 'virtual' because I would like someone to help me with decisions (in many cases, making them on my behalf) and to suggest next steps. Plus, I would like the individual to be able to manage some (or all) of the projects I'm working on -- or trying to work on.

I work in the mobile and technology space principally. I used to have plenty of time when I ran my blog, Mobile Industry Review. This afforded me the option to work from home (or anywhere) and provide consultancy as necessary. In recent years I've actually been performing consultancy roles on-site with banks and financial institutions. It's taken me a long time to recognise that I need additional assistance to get things done.

The first thing I need is for all of my current email to be reviewed and prioritised for next steps where necessary. There are numerous opportunities contained in them that I just haven't had time to evaluate.

I then think I need some assistance getting organised. Presents for friends. Christmas is coming. My diary is usually all over the place. I have one key client that requires me on site 9-5 for most days so that complicates things.

I have various project plans I'd like created -- with budgets to be agreed with me -- and then I'd like the assistant to implement them. e.g. get people from oDesk (or anywhere) to start work to deliver upon them. So although I've used the term assistant here, I'm also thinking 'project manager' too.

I know I am not working efficiently at the moment. I am prioritising the primary client and making sure they are content, whilst everything else I'd like to do (or loosely committed to doing) is gently being ignored.

I occasionally need a bit of help with travel or booking things. However I'm think I need on-going coaching to help learn how best to work with an assistant -- so I am looking for someone with the confidence to tell me how things should be (and why).

In terms of background, I really don't mind. I don't necessarily require someone with a ton of experience as an EA or VA. I do need someone with enthusiasm and demonstrable intellect.

I don't think I need full time assistance at the moment but I am flexible in that regard.

I am confident I don't necessarily need someone located in the United Kingdom (which is where I am). Nor do I need them to work British hours.

In terms of budget, I am looking to you for a steer.

I'm looking for long term assistance.

I've no idea how to 'do' this -- e.g. how do we do a 'test' and try working together? I am looking to you for ideas on how to do that.

One final point -- I mentioned the blog I run. One of my inboxes is dedicated to that blog so I need you to help manage incoming requests from people looking for me to write about them -- so there's a bit of editorial awareness required too.