Company Secretary - Financial Services in Bristol

Your new company is a purpose-led financial services organisation with a strong commitment to sustainable outcomes, looking for a Company Secretary to join their team in Bristol. Operating within an international group structure, this organisation plays a key role in driving governance excellence and supporting long-term strategic decision-making. You will need to be able to attend the office in central Bristol twice per week.

Your new role as Company Secretary will hold a pivotal leadership position at the heart of corporate governance. Reporting to the Head of Legal, you will ensure the organisation maintains the highest standards of regulatory compliance, governance best practice, and board effectiveness, working closely with the Deputy Co Sec. This is a highly visible role with regular interaction across the Board, Executive Committee, and senior leadership, offering the opportunity to influence strategic direction and governance frameworks.

Key responsibilities include:

• Acting as a trusted advisor to the Board and Committees, ensuring effective governance, decision-making, and regulatory compliance.
• Managing and coordinating Board and Committee meetings, including agendas, papers, and governance reporting frameworks.
• Maintaining statutory records and overseeing compliance with Companies Act requirements and regulatory obligations.
• Leading governance initiatives, including Board evaluations, succession planning, and committee effectiveness.
• Supporting shareholder engagement and advising on constitutional and governance matters.
• Overseeing the annual report process, including governance and regulatory disclosures.
• Managing internal governance frameworks, including policy management, delegations, and powers of attorney.
• Providing expert guidance on regulatory developments and governance best practices (horizon scanning).
• Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders, regulators, and external advisors.

What you'll need to succeed:

To be successful in this role, you will bring a combination of technical expertise, commercial awareness, and excellent stakeholder management skills. You will ideally have:

• A recognised professional qualification (e.g. Chartered Secretary/Governance Professional, ACA/ACCA/CIMA, or Solicitor), or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience (at least 3 years) as a Company Secretary in financial services (or another regulated sector) and/or demonstrable significant experience, operating at a senior level, in all aspects of company secretarial work, preferably with experience of working in a highly regulated sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK corporate governance and regulatory requirements.
• Experience supporting Boards and senior committees in complex organisations.
• Outstanding organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at senior level.
• A proactive, collaborative mindset with a 'can-do' attitude.
• An interest in sustainability, responsible business, or social impact is highly desirable.

What you'll get in return:

In return, you will have the opportunity to shape governance within a highly respected organisation and play a key role in its ongoing success. You can expect:

• A senior, high-impact role with significant board exposure.
• The opportunity to work in a purpose-driven, values-led environment.
• A collaborative and supportive culture.
• Professional development and ongoing career progression opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

If you are an experienced Company Secretary or governance professional looking for your next senior challenge, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Harriet Chapman for further information on this opportunity. Apply today to explore this unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a forward-thinking financial services organisation.