What Does a Corporate Secretary Do? Duties You Should Know

Corporate secretaries play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of companies. Their responsibilities extend far beyond administrative tasks, involving compliance, governance, and strategic support to the organization. In this article, we’ll explore the key duties of a corporate secretary and why their role is essential for businesses in Singapore.

Understanding the Role of a Corporate Secretary

A corporate secretary is a professional tasked with ensuring that a company complies with legal and regulatory requirements. They act as a bridge between the board of directors, management, and regulatory authorities, ensuring that the organization’s governance framework operates seamlessly. In Singapore, every company is legally required to appoint a corporate secretary within six months of incorporation.

Key Duties of a Corporate Secretary

Compliance with Statutory Obligations

Ensures the company adheres to the Companies Act and other regulatory requirements.
Files necessary returns, such as annual returns, with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Governance Support

Advises the board on governance practices and helps implement policies.
Ensures proper documentation of board meetings, resolutions, and decisions.

Maintaining Statutory Registers

Keeps accurate records of statutory registers, including the Register of Members, Register of Directors, and Register of Charges.

Organizing Board Meetings

Prepares meeting agendas, circulates notices, and takes minutes during board meetings.
Ensures compliance with quorum requirements and records key decisions.

Liaison with Regulatory Authorities

Acts as the point of contact between the company and regulatory bodies like ACRA and IRAS.
Assists in timely submission of statutory filings and applications.

Advisory Role

Provides guidance on corporate governance matters and regulatory changes.
Helps directors understand their legal obligations and responsibilities.

Corporate Restructuring and Transactions

Manages processes like share issuance, transfers, and other corporate transactions.
Assists with mergers, acquisitions, or corporate restructuring activities.

Annual General Meetings (AGMs)

Coordinates AGMs and ensures compliance with legal timelines.
Handles shareholder communication and voting procedures.

Why Businesses Need a Corporate Secretary

The role of a corporate secretary is vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of a company. By ensuring compliance, they safeguard the organization from potential penalties and reputational risks. Furthermore, they provide strategic insights that support the board and management in making informed decisions.

How SOAS Simplifies Corporate Secretarial Services

At SOAS, we understand the complexities of corporate governance and compliance. Our comprehensive corporate secretarial services are designed to help businesses in Singapore meet their statutory obligations effortlessly. Here’s how we can assist:

Expert Guidance: Our seasoned professionals ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Seamless Documentation: We manage your statutory registers, meeting minutes, and filings with precision.
Tailored Solutions: Whether you need help with governance advice or corporate restructuring, our team provides customized support.
Cost-Effective Services: We offer affordable packages to suit businesses of all sizes.

Choosing SOAS as your corporate secretarial partner means focusing on your core business activities while leaving compliance and governance to the experts.

FAQs About Corporate Secretary Duties

Q. What is the main role of a corporate secretary?

The main role of a corporate secretary is to ensure that a company complies with statutory and regulatory requirements, maintains proper governance, and supports the board of directors in fulfilling their duties.

Q. Is it mandatory to have a Company Constitution in Singapore?

Yes, all companies incorporated in Singapore are required by law to have a constitution.

Q. Can a director also serve as the corporate secretary?

For private companies, a director can also be the corporate secretary, provided the company only has one director. However, for public companies, the corporate secretary must meet specific qualification requirements.

Q. Can SOAS help with corporate secretarial services?

Yes, SOAS offers expert corporate secretarial services to help businesses meet their statutory obligations seamlessly. We provide guidance, manage compliance filings, and support governance activities.

Q. Why should I choose SOAS for corporate secretarial services?

At SOAS, we offer:

Experienced professionals to manage compliance.
Tailored solutions for governance and corporate restructuring.
Affordable service packages for businesses of all sizes. Visit SOAS to learn more about how we can help your business stay compliant.

Wrapping Up

A corporate secretary is an indispensable asset for any company, ensuring compliance, supporting governance, and streamlining corporate operations. For businesses in Singapore, partnering with a reliable service provider like SOAS can make all the difference. With our expertise, you can navigate the complexities of corporate governance effortlessly and focus on growing your business.

Ready to simplify your corporate secretarial needs? Visit SOAS today and discover how we can support your business.