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Corporate and M&A

Company secretarial

We are often asked to advise clients on general company law matters and corporate governance. An in-depth and solid knowledge of the Companies Act means the team are always at hand to help with considered and detailed advice.

Our dedicated team can undertake company secretarial matters for private companies, from a registered office only facility to an all encompassing.

“Very professional, knowledgeable and accessible lawyers.” 

Chambers and Partners

FAQs – Company secretarial

A company secretary is a person chosen by the business to perform administrative tasks like filing paperwork with Companies House and filing returns. They are the chief administrative officer of the company, and share various responsibilities with the directors under the Companies Act.

A company secretary is likely to be in charge of making sure an organisation abides by accepted financial and legal procedures and upholds high standards of corporate governance. The company secretary holds an executive position within the company and has a responsibility to:

  • Provide guidance and support to the chair of the company.
  • Provide advice to the board of directors including but not limited to: statutory duties, disclosure obligations, listing rules (if relevant), corporate governance and board processes.
  • Assist the board on the processes put in place to engage with its stakeholders and report on its outcomes.
  • Assist in shaping and embedding a healthy corporate culture.
  • Understand strategic goals and challenges faced by the business.
  • Ensure the companies objectives are met in a compliant and respectful manner.

A private company that was established prior to 2008 does not need to have a company secretary, unless its articles of association specify otherwise.

The Companies Act 2006 is the piece of legislation that serves as the main source for company law governing the UK.

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