The Company Secretary is responsible for the efficient administration of a
company, particularly with regard to ensuring compliance with statutory and
regulatory requirements and for ensuring that decisions of the Board of
Directors are implemented. Tasks a Company Secretary may perform include:
· direct the business affairs of the company by implementing the decision
s of the board of directors
· act as advisers to the directors of the company
· handle company share transactions such as issuing new shares, arranging for the payment of dividends and observing all legal requirements
· liaise with auditors, lawyers, tax advisers, bankers and shareholders
· attend and take minutes of directors’ and members’ meetings
· prepare financial reports, budgets and forecasts
· negotiate the terms of new business contracts
· assess and arrange insurance cover for the company
· administer the company’s superannuation policy
· ensure that all returns required by the Corporations Act are made to ASIC
· ensure the requirements of the Income Tax Assessment Act are met; be the Public Officer
· ensure the company meets its compliance obligations under relevant laws
and the requirements of regulatory authorities (eg, stock exchange)
· represent the company in dealings with other companies, banks and shareholders
· supervise financial administration including preparation of financial statements
Personal attributes of a good Company Secretary include:
· able to analyse and solve problems
· management and organisational skills
· familiarity with information technology
· discretion when dealing with confidential information
· an understanding of the legal system as it affects business
· good communication and interpersonal skills
