Company Secretary

Make an impact at the heart of our purpose-driven business by joining our team as our Company Secretary!

We're Southern Co-op, a long-standing group of businesses dedicated to serving local communities across the South. More than just a commercial success, we're committed to responsible business practices, earning us a Queen's Award for Enterprise in Sustainability (2022).

This role is part time, equivalent to 25 hours a week, at our head office & remotely. Due to the nature of the role, you'll need to be able to work flexibly across the year to accommodate our annual cycle of Board and Sub Committee meetings. Working patterns to be agreed.

What you'll get

• Competitive Salary - £60,000
• Generous Holiday Allowance - 34 days (including bank holidays), rising to 39 with service (pro rata)
• 20% Store Discount - Save on your essentials
• Company Car Allowance
• Private Medical & Critical Illness Insurance
• Group Life Assurance & Share Incentive Plan
• Pension & Income Protection
• Employee Assistance Programme - 24/7 GP access & annual health check
• Financial Wellbeing Tools
• Free Onsite Parking at our Lakeside Head Office

What you'll be doing

As Company Secretary, you'll ensure the smooth operation of our governance, overseeing democratic activities with our member-owners and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. Your work will directly support our purpose and business strategies.

• Act as the appointed Secretary to the Board, ensuring seamless board activities, sub-committees, and subsidiary operations.
• Provide expert governance advice to Directors and support them in fulfilling their duties.
• Assist the Chair in developing and administering the Board's Governance Roadmap.
• Maintain statutory records and oversee democratic membership governance processes.
• Lead digital member attitude surveys to understand and respond to their needs.
• Ensure compliance with governance rules, regulatory requirements, and external obligations.
• Co-lead the production of Annual Reports and Accounts alongside our Finance Director.
• Support Board recruitment, onboarding, training, and evaluations.
• Oversee key corporate documents, including contracts, property deeds, and trading licences.
• Manage Board meeting cycles, agendas, reports, and minutes.

What we're looking for

• Proven experience as a Company Secretary
• ICSA qualification (or equivalent) - desirable but not essential
• Understanding of, or willingness to take on, FCA regulation
• Excellent communication & influencing skills at all levels
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office & IT systems

If you're passionate about governance, thrive in a strategic leadership role, and want to be part of a business that truly makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply today and help shape the future of Southern Co-op!