Company Secretary - Financial Services

Company Secretary - Financial Services

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 Β£ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead corporate governance and ensure regulatory compliance in a dynamic financial services environment.
  • Company: Purpose-driven financial services organisation committed to sustainability and positive impact.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative culture.
  • Other info: Opportunity for significant board exposure and career progression.
  • Why this job: Shape governance and influence strategic decisions in a respected organisation.
  • Qualifications: Professional qualification in governance or finance and 3+ years of relevant experience.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 Β£ per year.

This purpose-led financial services organisation with a strong commitment to sustainable outcomes is 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 become part of a collaborative and values-driven environment where governance, transparency, and positive impact are at the forefront of everything they do. You will need to be able to attend the office in central Bristol twice per week.

As Company Secretary, you 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:

  • 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:

  • 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. Apply today to explore this unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a forward-thinking financial services organisation.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited

Contact Details:

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Company Secretary - Financial Services

Corporate Governance
Regulatory Compliance
Board Management
Statutory Record Maintenance
Governance Reporting Frameworks
Stakeholder Management
Organisational Skills