Register of Secretaries
/ˈredʒɪstə ɒv ˈsekrətriz/
A Register of Secretaries is a statutory record that private companies must maintain, containing the names and details of all individuals who serve as company secretaries.
A Register of Secretaries is a statutory record that private companies must maintain, containing the names and details of all individuals who serve as company secretaries.
A Register of Secretaries must include each secretary's full name, residential address, and the date they were appointed to the role.
The full details that are required are listed in the Companies Acts.
For corporate secretaries, you'll also need the company name and registered office address instead of a residential address.
Unlike the register of directors which focuses on decision-makers, a Register of Secretaries specifically tracks administrative officers responsible for compliance and corporate governance.
It's a separate statutory requirement with its own specific information requirements.
You must update your Register of Secretaries within 14 days of any changes, such as appointing a new secretary or when an existing secretary resigns.
These changes must also be reported to the relevant company registry within the same timeframe.
Companies must keep their Register of Secretaries at their registered office or another notified location.
The register must be available for inspection by company members free of charge and by the public for a small fee.
Company shareholders can inspect the Register of Secretaries without charge during business hours.
Members of the public can also request access, though companies may charge a reasonable fee for inspection or copies.
Failing to maintain an accurate Register of Secretaries can result in penalties for both the company and its officers.
The company registry may impose fines, and directors could face personal liability for non-compliance with statutory requirements.
Many companies use professional company secretarial services to maintain their Register of Secretaries alongside other statutory records.
This ensures compliance whilst allowing founders to focus on growing their business rather than administrative requirements.
