Which qualification is necessary for someone to be appointed as a company secretary?

To be appointed as a company secretary, a candidate typically needs to possess certain qualifications that are aligned with the responsibilities of the role, which include ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, maintaining company records, and providing guidance to the board of directors.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) is a recognized professional accounting body that provides a qualification that can qualify an individual to undertake the role of a company secretary. Members of ICAEW are trained in corporate governance, compliance, and financial management, which are essential skills for a company secretary.

While other qualifications, such as degrees in accountancy, NVQs in business studies, or qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), may provide relevant knowledge or skills, they do not specifically pertain to the requirements and responsibilities associated with being a company secretary. Therefore, the qualification from ICAEW is the most pertinent and recognized for this role.