Company formations

What does a Company Secretary do?

Since April 2008 a Company Secretary is no longer required in order to register a limited company but it remains optional.

The role of a Company Secretary is administrative in that it is their responsibility to complete, sign and return any required documentation to Companies House by the due date.

There are many forms that need to be filed at Companies House and penalties are firmly in place for late return of these.

It is the Company Secretary's responsibility to ensure that the registered address for the Company appears on any company stationery.

In addition, responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of company and may include:

• Providing members with notice of meetings
• Supply copies of annual accounts to each member of the company
• Keeping minutes of company meetings
• And other administrative duties such as payroll, VAT returns and compliance with all current legislation.

In the case of a private limited company a company secretary does not need any formal qualifications but you must be confident they have enough knowledge and experience to take on the role of company secretary.

If you decide to appoint a Company Secretary you will need to complete Form 288a or if you are setting up your company online you can appoint a Company Secretary at the same time.

Importantly, Company Secretaries do not have to own a share in the company but they can if they so wish.

Click Here to register your own company today.
The process is quick, easy and simple.