Navigating the Path to Becoming a Company Secretary”

In this episode Swati Salunkhe talks about the field company secretary. Company secretary deals with the legal aspects. Company secretary is the one who deals with all the legal activities of any business.

The role of a company secretary is to keep the records, advice, tax returns and evaluate the legal aspects of the organization. EVERY COMPANY REQUIRES COMPANY SECRETARY WHO CAN HELP IN STATUTORY AND LEGAL FILING REQUIREMENTS. CONTRARY TO THE NAME, IT IS NOT A MERE SECRETARIAL POSITION; THERE ARE VARIOUS RESPONSIBILITIES WHICH A CS HAS TO FOLLOW. HE/SHE IS THE LEGAL EXPERT OF THE COMPANY AND HAS TO FULFILL THE RESPONSIBILITY TO BE A COMPLIANCE OFFICER OF THE COMPANY.

IN SHORT HE IS THE PERSONNEL ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS WHO HAS TO HANDLE THE LEGAL AND THE STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS. In India, the Institute which regulates the profession of a Company Secretary is “THE INSTITUTE OF COMPANY SECRETARIES OF INDIA (ICSI)” One must first register with the institute which is (ICSI).

CS is a professional course done along with or after graduation. The CS course is divided into three levels – the foundation course which is of 8 months, intermediate or executive course for 9 months and 15 MONTHS PROFESSIONAL COURSE. THE MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED FOR THE FOUNDATION COURSE IS 10+2 IN ANY STEAM (EXCEPT FINE ARTS).

A general interest in economics, business and finance is must. The work involves multi-tasking a lot on a daily basis, hence you must be disciplined, organized, and efficient in time management. AREAS OF WORK ARE Law firms, PCS firms, listed companies, Private companies, non banking financial institutions and many more. The employment opportunities for company secretary are ample in both private and public sector.

You may even go for independent practice. If you think you have curiosity and an eagerness to understand, analyse and interpret complex and technical legal issues you can surely go for this career.

Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs) For How to Become a Company Secretary

1. What is a company secretary, and what do they do?

A company secretary is a senior executive responsible for ensuring a company complies with relevant laws and regulations. They also manage corporate governance, facilitate communication between the board and shareholders, and oversee administrative tasks.

2. What qualifications are required to become a company secretary?

To become a company secretary, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in commerce, business, law, or a related field. Additionally, you may need to complete a professional certification program recognized by your country’s regulatory authority.

3. What are the key professional certifications for aspiring company secretaries?

Common professional certifications for company secretaries include the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) in India, the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) in the UK, and the Chartered Secretaries Australia (CSA) in Australia.

4. What is the role of a company secretary in a corporate setting?

Company secretaries play a pivotal role in ensuring a company complies with legal and regulatory requirements. They advise the board of directors on corporate governance matters, maintain statutory records, and handle communication with shareholders.

5. How long does it take to become a company secretary?

The time it takes to become a company secretary varies depending on the educational path and certification chosen. On average, it may take several years to complete the required education and certification.

6. Can I become a company secretary through distance education or online courses?

Some educational institutions offer distance or online courses that can be part of your company secretary education, but you may still need to attend in-person classes or examinations for certain components of the certification.

7. What skills are important for a company secretary to possess?

Company secretaries should have strong communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. They should also be detail-oriented, knowledgeable about corporate law, and have a good understanding of financial and governance matters.

8. Is prior work experience required to become a company secretary?

While work experience is not always mandatory to start your education as a company secretary, many certification programs may require you to complete internships or practical training to gain hands-on experience.

9. What are the career prospects for company secretaries?

Company secretaries have various career opportunities in the corporate sector, including roles as corporate advisors, governance professionals, legal advisors, and compliance officers. They can also work in public practice or government agencies.

10. How do I stay updated in the field of company secretarial practice?

Staying updated in this field involves continuing education, attending seminars or workshops, reading industry publications, and joining professional organizations related to corporate governance and secretarial practice.

11. Are there specific ethics and standards that company secretaries must adhere to?

Yes, company secretaries are expected to adhere to high ethical standards and codes of conduct established by professional bodies and regulatory authorities in their respective countries.