4 February 2025
Caroline Scott, Marketing Manager, CGISA
As the professional body for company secretaries and governance professionals, the Chartered Governance Institute of Southern Africa (CGISA) knows that the start of a new year is a crucial time to set the tone for effective governance, compliance, and strategic support throughout the year.
Here are ten practical tips to help you plan ahead and achieve success in your role:
- Review key compliance deadlines
Begin the year by compiling a comprehensive calendar of all statutory and regulatory deadlines. Include annual returns, financial filings, integrated and sustainability reports, and board and board committee meeting schedules to ensure nothing is overlooked.
- Update corporate governance frameworks
Assess the company’s governance policies and frameworks to ensure they align with the latest legal, regulatory, and industry standards. Update documents such as the board charter, committee terms of reference, and policies where necessary. Members and subscribers can ask our technical manager for advice if there is an area of challenge.
- Plan the Year’s Board Meetings and Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Collaborate with the chairperson and senior leadership to schedule board and committee meetings, as well as the AGM, for the entire year. Circulate these dates early to ensure maximum attendance and seamless stakeholder engagement.
- Set objectives and key deliverables
Define clear goals for the governance function in line with the organisation’s strategic objectives. This could include improving board evaluation processes, enhancing ESG reporting, or streamlining compliance workflows.
- Prepare for Integrated and Sustainability Reporting
If your organisation produces integrated and sustainability reports, create a project plan that maps out timelines, roles, and responsibilities. Start collecting data and engaging with key stakeholders early to ensure comprehensive and impactful reporting. If your organisation does not yet report in these areas, perhaps consider doing so this year.
- Strengthen Stakeholder and Shareholder Engagement
Identify key stakeholders and shareholders and develop a plan to maintain strong relationships. This includes regular communication with external stakeholders such as board members, shareholders, regulators, and other relevant parties as well as internal stakeholders such as managers and employees. Utilize the AGM as an opportunity to engage meaningfully with shareholders.
- Conduct a Skills Audit
Assess the skills and expertise of the board and senior management to identify gaps that may need to be addressed through training or recruitment. This ensures the board and management remain effective and capable of tackling emerging challenges. If you need assistance, reach out to CGISA and we can conduct a board assessment or evaluation.
- Stay Informed on Emerging Trends
Governance is an ever-evolving field. Dedicate time to staying updated on trends such as ESG integration, digital transformation, and sustainability. Subscribing to industry publications (such as our boardroom magazine) or attending CGISA webinars and on-demand webinar recordings , as well as the annual CGISA conference can help
- Enhance Record-Keeping Practices
Review your organisation’s systems for maintaining accurate records of meetings, resolutions, and statutory documents. Consider adopting or optimising digital solutions for better efficiency.
- Prioritise Self-Development
Invest in your professional growth by enrolling in governance courses (the CGISA qualification is internationally and SAQA accredited and recognised in over 80 countries), attending conferences, or achieving certifications. Professional development enhances your value to the organisation and keeps you motivated.
Starting the year with a clear plan and proactive approach can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful year ahead. By following these tips, you’ll be well-positioned to support your organisation’s governance excellence and strategic goals.
And remember, CGISA is here to support you in your company secretarial and governance professional career.
