The Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance attracts professionals who want to deepen their understanding of governance practice and strengthen their impact at work. We spoke with Helen Cousen, a Relationship Manager, who completed the programme to build confidence, broaden her technical knowledge, and better support the organisations she works with. Helen won the Jack Wratten prize for best overall results, receiving a distinction on her Certificate.
Her reflections offer a grounded, honest look at what it’s like to study while working, the value of practical workshops, and the real-world skills she gained along the way. Helen’s experience is a strong example of how the Certificate can support career development for those working closely with governance, compliance, and company secretarial teams.
1. What motivated you to enroll in the Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance, and what were you hoping to achieve?
There are so many aspects to my day to day work in Share Registration and Employee Share Plans management that are fundamental to the Company Secretary role, but I felt that there were key elements missing in my knowledge in detailed governance and how the parts I saw daily combined with the overall job of Corporate Governance and Company Secretary. By completing this certificate, I wanted to close any gaps and equip myself to better support the companies and clients I work with.
2. What aspects of the teaching, content or structure did you particularly enjoy?
The online teaching, advanced scheduling and receiving the learning materials very early in the course allowed me to study within the confines of my day-to-day role and normal home life. I particularly enjoyed workshops with real life case studies and break out sessions with other students.
3. How has the Certificate supported your development in your current role, or influenced your career direction more broadly?
I am more confident in supporting my clients through corporate governance events, and better able to understand the demands of the Company Secretaries I work closely with.
4. Were there any particular skills, insights or moments during the course that you found especially valuable or confidence-building?
Finding and using source materials was a real key skill I developed during my study. Government agency websites are not known for their ease of use, and tips shared amongst our course cohort were especially helpful.
5. What would you say to someone considering joining the Certificate programme this October?
Do it! Providing you have time available to study and your employer’s support, it is definitely worth completing. Lots of useful insights and learning in the study material and workshops, as well as opportunities to make contact with others in similar roles
Helen’s journey highlights exactly what the Certificate is designed to deliver: practical knowledge, stronger professional confidence, and a clearer understanding of how governance principles apply in day‑to‑day roles. Her experience shows that with structured support, flexible online learning, and a collaborative cohort, students can successfully balance study with work and home life while gaining skills that make an immediate difference.
The Certificate offers not only technical insight, but also a community of peers and a pathway into further governance study and career progression.
If you would like to join our next cohort starting this October 2026, you can learn more and register here.