Chartered Secretaries play a varied role in organisations

Chartered Secretaries, in the role of Secretary to the Board, advise the chairman and the board of directors/trustees on all corporate governance matters.  With their intricate knowledge of business regulations and operations, Chartered Secretaries make an invaluable contribution to their organisations.
Sir Adrian Cadbury, author of The Financial Aspects of Corporate Governance (The Cadbury Report 1992) and former Chief Executive of Cadbury-Schweppes plc

One of the simplest but most effective things a Chartered Secretary can do is to make sure that when transactions take place, they happen in an efficient and expedient manner, coordinating matters at a senior level.
Neil McNamara FCIS, Group Corporate Secretary and Director of Group Corporate Affairs at Jardine Matheson, Hong Kong

Chelsea Village runs the professional football club, two hotels, a nightclub, a travel agency and a health club so it’s difficult to describe a typical day, but I deal with compliance, property related issues, all planning matters, contracts, human resources and construction control.
Alan Shaw FCIS, Company Secretary for Chelsea Village plc

My role encompasses both governance and facilities management which means it is very wide ranging work.  I don’t think I’ve ever picked up the same piece of work twice.  It means the role always keeps you on your toes – you are not allowed to stagnate!
Neil Andrews, Trainee Assistant Company Secretary, Swan Housing Group

Breadth of training

The ICSA International Qualifying Scheme is unique in offering broad based, postgraduate training in corporate governance, law, finance, administration, company secretaryship and management.

No other professional body in the business area offers the breadth of knowledge which the ICSA’s qualification provides.

Training as a Chartered Secretary gave me a grounding in law, accounting, business administration and management.  It’s vital to have knowledge in all areas when you are head of a large organisation.

Michael Bage ACIS, Chief Executive of the Chelsea Building Society

Of course there are other qualifications that offer a good grounding in specific fields but head and shoulders above those is the ICSA qualification.  In a SME, where directors are often required to have knowledge of legal, regulatory and marketing issues, it is an invaluable asset.

Sue Johansson ACIS, Chairman MYPEC Group Ltd

When looking for a qualification in corporate administration, the breadth and depth of the Chartered Secretary scheme was attractive.  I work in the public sector where the knowledge provides an excellent basis for a variety of roles.  I have found it especially useful when working with colleagues from other disciplines as I have an understanding of their work and issues across the organisation in general.
Graham Lawrence, GradICSA and Information Governance Manager, Healthcare Commission

As people develop their careers, they may consider taking an MBA.  However, in practice, many look to the ICSA qualification to broaden their understanding of business.  Knowledge of company finance, corporate governance and boardroom issues can prove invaluable in running a department or diversifying into new areas. 

The huge variety of prospective employers and the range of work available made the prospect of becoming a Chartered Secretary very attractive. 

Billy French GradICSA, Deputy Company Secretary, SLP Engineering

The ICSA qualification has provided me with a well-balanced appreciation of professional governance practices that are as relevant and useful in the public sector as the private.
Tracy Cottee ACIS, Head of Legal and Democratic Services, Hart District Council