In the past, appointing a Company Secretary was a standard part of setting up a business in the UK. Today, for private limited companies, it’s no longer a legal requirement but that doesn’t mean it’s not useful.
We’re often asked whether a Company Secretary is still relevant in today’s business world. The answer? It depends on your company’s size, structure, and ambitions. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Company Secretary?
A Company Secretary is an officer of the company responsible for ensuring that the business complies with its legal and regulatory obligations. Their role can include:
- Maintaining statutory registers
- Filing documents at Companies House
- Ensuring board procedures are followed
- Preparing board and shareholder meeting minutes
- Managing share issues and transfers
- Supporting compliance with the Companies Act 2006
In larger companies, they often act as a key link between directors, shareholders, and external regulators.
Is it a legal requirement?
- Private limited companies: No longer required to have a Company Secretary unless the company’s articles of association say otherwise.
- Public limited companies (PLCs): Legally required to appoint one, and they must be appropriately qualified.
Even if it’s not required, many private companies choose to appoint one voluntarily, especially as they grow and their administrative obligations increase.
When might you need a Company Secretary?
Here are some situations where having a Company Secretary can be a smart move:
- Your business is growing
As your company expands, so do your filing responsibilities. A Company Secretary can keep everything in order and ensure you stay compliant. - You have external investors or shareholders
They will expect professional governance and timely reporting. A Company Secretary helps maintain transparency and proper record-keeping. - You’re preparing for a sale or investment
Buyers and investors often scrutinise company records. Having a Company Secretary in place helps ensure everything is in order before due diligence begins. - You don’t have time
If you’re the sole director and wearing multiple hats, delegating statutory and compliance duties can free you up to focus on running the business.
Alternatives: outsourced company secretarial services
Not every business needs a full-time in-house Company Secretary. Many SMEs opt for outsourced company secretarial services, where a professional team handles:
- Annual confirmation statements
- Company register maintenance
- Filing of resolutions
- Share allotments and transfers
- Changes to company structure
This gives you the benefit of compliance without the cost of a permanent hire.
While you may not legally need a Company Secretary, having someone (or a trusted advisor) manage your company’s legal admin can be invaluable.
We provide company secretarial services to businesses of all sizes, helping you stay compliant, organised, and ready for whatever comes next.
