The Strategic Evolution of the Corporate Secretary: A Key Player in Governance
In an era where corporate governance is becoming increasingly complex, the role of the corporate secretary has evolved beyond administrative duties to become a strategic pillar within organizations. This transformation was highlighted in a recent episode of Academia de Guvernanță, featuring Dr. Gabriela Hârțescu, Dean and Founding Member of Envisia – Boards of Elite, and Flavia Popa, Secretary General of BRD - Groupe Société Générale.
FROM ADMINSTRATION TO STRATEGY: THE EXPANDING ROLE OF THE CORPORATE STRATEGY
Traditionally viewed as a facilitator of board meetings and compliance processes, the corporate secretary is now a key player in aligning stakeholder interests and ensuring effective communication between shareholders and executive leadership. According to Dr. Gabriela Hârțescu, this role is particularly crucial in large corporations where governance frameworks are well-defined and often fall under the responsibility of financial directors or corporate lawyers. In smaller enterprises, these duties are distributed among multiple executives, emphasizing the need for structured governance.
A significant part of the secretary’s responsibilities includes ensuring legislative compliance, acting as a watchdog for governance standards, and managing regulatory relationships. As companies face heightened scrutiny and the demand for transparency grows, the corporate secretary plays a pivotal role in maintaining clarity and integrity in corporate disclosures.
THE GUARDIAN OF TRANSPARENCY AND COMPLIANCE
Flavia Popa underscores that the corporate secretary and their team function as a “transmission belt” in a complex corporate mechanism, ensuring the seamless flow of clear and accurate information. With the increasing necessity for corporate transparency, especially in publicly listed companies, they act as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities, shareholders, media, and rating agencies.
Beyond compliance, the corporate secretary also plays a strategic role in risk management. They help identify governance risks, keep the board informed, and collaborate with executive management to develop mitigation strategies. This function is no longer a bureaucratic necessity but a strategic advantage in corporate decision-making.
GOVERNANCE, STRATEGY AND CORPORATE AFFAIRS
The corporate secretary's role now extends into governance structuring, overseeing board composition, and ensuring diversity in leadership. They contribute to strategic discussions on mergers, acquisitions, and corporate structuring, making them indispensable in shaping a company’s long-term direction.
Public affairs also fall under their domain, as highlighted by Flavia Popa. While lobbying remains an underregulated practice in Romania, corporate secretaries engage in meaningful dialogues with authorities through professional associations, shaping regulatory landscapes that impact corporate governance.
THE FUTURE OF CORPORATE SECRETARIES: A STRATEGIC ASSET
As corporate governance continues to evolve, the secretary general’s role will gain further recognition for its strategic importance. Dr. Gabriela Hârțescu emphasizes that investing in this function will position companies for success in an increasingly regulated and transparent business environment. Those who understand and leverage the full scope of the corporate secretary’s expertise will be better equipped to navigate governance challenges and drive sustainable growth.
The transformation of the corporate secretary from an administrative function to a governance leader is not just a trend but a necessity for modern businesses. Companies that acknowledge and integrate this strategic role into their leadership structures will be at the forefront of corporate excellence and regulatory compliance.
You can watch entire the discussion HERE.
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