A Guide to Company Secretarial Practice in UK Listed Companies

Introduction

In the complex landscape of UK listed companies, the role of the company secretary is more vital than ever. With increasing regulatory demands, the evolving UK Corporate Governance Code, and heightened expectations for transparency, company secretaries must be at the forefront of governance and compliance. This session provides an in-depth exploration of the essential duties, legal obligations, and best practices for company secretaries in listed companies. Participants will gain insights into recent regulatory changes, practical strategies for managing boardroom dynamics, and how to navigate the intricate requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and other relevant legislation.

Failure to stay updated on these developments could lead to severe legal and financial consequences for companies, including penalties for non-compliance. Attendees will leave equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to enhance their governance practices and ensure regulatory compliance, ultimately safeguarding their organization’s reputation and integrity.

What You Will Learn

The course will cover the following:

• Understand the expanded role and responsibilities of the company secretary in UK listed companies
• Learn how to ensure compliance with key regulatory frameworks, including the UK Corporate Governance Code, the Companies Act 2006, and the Financial Conduct Authority's Listing Rules
• Gain insights into effective board meeting management, including agenda setting, minute-taking, and addressing conflicts of interest
• Explore best practices in shareholder engagement, communication, and managing general meetings (AGMs and EGMs)
• Identify and manage common practical challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by company secretaries
• Discuss the latest trends in corporate governance, digital transformation, and ESG reporting that impact company secretarial practice