Volunteer Company Secretary
Purpose of the Role The Company Secretary is responsible for supporting the effective governance of Sydney Philharmonia Limited by ensuring compliance with statutory obligations, supporting the Board in fulfilling its duties, and maintaining high standards of corporate governance. The role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of the Board and its committees.
Key Responsibilities
- Governance and Compliance • Facilitate compliance with all relevant legislation and regulatory requirements, including the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), Australian Charities and Not-for=Profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth), and the organisation’s Constitution. • Maintain and update the organisation’s register with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and/or Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). • Monitor developments in corporate governance and bring relevant matters to the attention of the Board.
- Board and Committee Support • Prepare, distribute, and maintain accurate minutes of Board and committee meetings. • In consultation with the Chair, prepare and distribute agendas and Board papers in a timely manner. • Support the induction and ongoing education of Board members. • Maintain registers of Board members, conflicts of interest, and other governance records.
- Statutory and Corporate Record-Keeping • Maintain up-to-date statutory registers and corporate records. • Ensure the lodgement of statutory documents (e.g., changes to directors, membership records, annual financial statements).
- Liaison and Communication • Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies (ASIC, ACNC). • Assist the Chair and Executive Director with governance correspondence.
- Governance Development • Assist the Board with reviewing and updating governance policies and procedures. • Support Board evaluations and governance improvement initiatives.
Key Relationships • Chair of the Board • Board Directors and Committee Chairs • Executive Director and Artistic & Music Director • ASIC, ACNC • External legal and governance advisers as appropriate
Selection Criteria Essential • Demonstrated understanding of corporate governance principles and relevant legislation affecting not-for-profit companies. • Experience in or knowledge of the role and duties of a Company Secretary. • Strong organisational and administrative skills. • High level of written communication and attention to detail. • Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality. • Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative working style. Desirable • Qualifications in law, governance, business, or related discipline. • Membership of the Governance Institute of Australia or equivalent. • Experience in the not-for-profit or charitable sector.
Time Commitment • Attendance at approximately 6 Board meetings per year. • Preparation time for meetings and follow-up work. • Coordination and organisation of the Annual General Meeting and any extraordinary meetings • Maintenance of the register of members • Availability to respond to compliance or governance matters as required. • Estimated at approximately 8 hours per month
Please submit your application with a one-page cover letter and CV.