At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure compliance with charity law and support the Board in governance matters.
- Company: Join The Cyber Helpline, a passionate charity dedicated to cyber safety.
- Benefits: Flexible remote work, meaningful impact, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment for aspiring Company Secretaries looking to grow.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the fight against cybercrime while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, strong attention to detail, and a passion for charity work.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Engagement: Trustee meetings are quarterly (three remote and one in-person). The individual will provide additional time as required.
Location: Remote.
Reporting Line: The role reports to the Chair on governance and to the CEO on operational matters.
The Cyber Helpline
The Cyber Helpline is a UK-based charity offering free, confidential cyber support to individuals, microbusinesses, and charities. We help people stay safe online by providing practical, empathetic guidance and technical advice. Our work is driven by a passionate community of staff and volunteers who bring empathy, dedication, and expertise to every interaction.
Role Summary
The Company Secretary is the guardian of The Cyber Helpline’s compliance with both the law and best practice. The Company Secretary will play a key role in ensuring that Board procedures are followed and regularly reviewed. Acting as a resource for the Board, the Company Secretary will also provide guidance on Board members’ responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensuring the charity operates in accordance with its governing document, the Charities Act, and the Companies Act 2006, and advising the board on their duties and on any legal and regulatory changes.
- Being the subject matter expert on charity law and regulation within the Board.
- Organising, attending, and taking minutes at trustee meetings (board and sub-committees), including preparing agendas and circulating papers.
- Supporting the trustees by commissioning papers and other work required by the board, recording and tracking progress of actions agreed.
- Ensuring all mandatory returns, including the annual report and financial statements, are filed on time with Companies House and the Charity Commission.
- Informing the Charity Commission of any significant changes in the charity’s structure or management, for example, the appointment or resignation of trustees.
- Assisting with the recruitment, induction, and training of new trustees, and managing conflict-of-interest registers.
- Maintaining accurate records, including the register of members and trustees, the register of any charges on the company’s assets and managing high-level correspondence.
- Maintaining the charity's registered office as the address for any formal communications, ensuring that all the charity’s business stationery carries its name, registered number, country of registration and registered address.
- Ensuring the security of the charity’s legal documents and owning the charity’s policy for the filing and retention of documents.
- Ensuring The Cyber Helpline has adequate insurance in place.
- Ensuring the charity is compliant with relevant UK law & regulation.
- Supporting the protection of intellectual property.
Requirements
This role would suit either someone in a Company Secretary role or someone with aspirations to become one. We are happy to support someone looking to make the transition into this role.
- Experience of auditing against standards and policies.
- Experience consulting with subject matter experts on complex issues.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Strong planning, organisation and analytical skills.
- Ability to turn theoretical models and guidance into practical frameworks that achieve results.
- Ability to deliver project work, as well as communicate and plan at a strategic level.
- Strong integrity and honesty.
- Passionate about our mission of supporting victims of cybercrime.
Preferred
- Understanding of or experience in the cyber security industry.
- Experience in the not-for-profit / charity sector.
- Membership (or on path to membership) of any of the following bodies:
- the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
- the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
- the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland
- the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators
- the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
- the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting
- Be a barrister, advocate or solicitor called, admitted or part-qualified, in any part of the UK.
Remote Charity Company Secretary — Governance & Compliance Lead employer: The Cyber Helpline
The Cyber Helpline is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while working remotely. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and a supportive work culture, staff are encouraged to develop their skills in governance and compliance within the charity sector. Join a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cybercrime, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Charity Company Secretary — Governance & Compliance Lead
✨Get Involved in Local Compliance Groups
Join local compliance or risk management groups where you can meet professionals in the field. They often host events or webinars that can help you network and learn about potential volunteering opportunities at organisations like The Cyber Helpline.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Compliance
Showcase your interest in compliance and risk by writing articles or blog posts about current trends in the industry. Share these on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn, highlighting your insights! This can make you stand out to The Cyber Helpline when they're looking for volunteers.
✨Volunteer at Relevant Organisations
Look for opportunities at non-profits or organisations that need compliance support. This will not only give you hands-on experience but also help you build a network that can get your foot in the door at The Cyber Helpline or similar firms.
✨Utilise University Resources
If you're studying, tap into your university's career services. They often have connections with businesses looking for volunteers, so don’t hesitate to ask about any placements related to compliance at places like The Cyber Helpline. It’s a great way to gain experience while still in school!
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Charity Company Secretary — Governance & Compliance Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, we want to see that you truly understand the principles of regulatory frameworks and risk assessment. Use your cover letter to highlight any related coursework or experiences that demonstrate your knowledge, even if it's from your studies or previous volunteering. Mention specific regulations or frameworks you’re familiar with to catch our attention.
Highlight Relevant Experience, Even If It's Volunteer Work:Since you're applying for a volunteer position, it’s crucial to emphasise any previous volunteer experience that connects with compliance and risk management. Did you help out in a similar role previously, or do you have any projects related to ethics or compliance? Share those stories in your CV to show your commitment and hands-on experience in the field.
Keep It Concise and Structured:When drafting your application, make sure to keep it straightforward and well-organised. Use bullet points for your CV to list your relevant skills, achievements, and experiences succinctly. Compliance roles often involve attention to detail, so this will reflect positively on your application!
Express Your Passion for Compliance and Risk Management:As a volunteer, your enthusiasm can set you apart. In your cover letter, share why you're passionate about compliance and risk management. Whether it's safeguarding organisations or your interest in regulatory changes, let us know your motivation. This personal touch shows us that you’re not just looking for a role, but that you genuinely care about the field!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cyber Helpline
✨Know Your Compliance Stuff
Dive into the fundamentals of compliance and risk. Brush up on regulations relevant to the sector The Cyber Helpline operates in. Be ready to discuss the tools and methodologies you’re familiar with, like risk assessments or compliance frameworks—you might face some scenario-based questions that'll put your understanding to the test!
✨Show Your Volunteer Spirit
As this is a volunteer position, showcasing your willingness to learn and be adaptable is key. Talk about how your skills and passion align with the mission of The Cyber Helpline. Share experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond in similar roles, demonstrating your commitment and motivation.
✨Practical Problem Solver
Be prepared for some situational questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of situations where you identified risks or potential compliance issues and how you resolved them. This not only shows your analytical thinking but also your proactive nature—qualities that lean well in the compliance-risk space.
✨Build Rapport with the Team
Since you'll likely be working closely with a team of compliance officers or risk analysts, try to convey how well you collaborate. Practise discussing your teamwork experiences, especially in previous volunteer roles. Making a personal connection with your interviewers can go a long way, showing you're not just about the skills but also about being a team player.
