Entering the company secretarial and governance profession can feel daunting, especially for those who are new to the field, or transitioning from another career. KCB is partnering with G2 Legal, and specifically their specialist Company Secretarial and Governance recruitment team, to help aspiring governance professionals build confidence, capability, and long-term career success.

Who are G2 Legal?

G2 Legal is one of the UK’s leading specialist recruitment consultancies, with a dedicated Company Secretarial division. Their team has deep, practical knowledge of the governance profession across all sectors with a specialism in the professional services space, including accountancy practices, law firms, and corporate services providers.

They support candidates by:

• Providing honest, informed career guidance based on real market insight
• Helping candidates understand the distinctive career paths within modern governance roles
• Connecting individuals with organisations that match their skills, ambitions, and values
• Offering advice on CV structure, transferable skills, and interview preparation
• Building long‑term relationships to support career progression over time

For employers, G2 Legal offers:

• Access to a highly specialised talent pool
• Insight into current market trends and salary expectations
• Recruitment support across all organisation types, from charities to global corporates
• Consultants trained through their in‑house Learning & Development programme, ensuring up‑to‑date sector knowledge

In short: G2 Legal understands governance deeply, and they know what employers are looking for.

How do KCB support G2 Legal’s mission?

G2 Legal’s aim is to help candidates enter and progress within the governance profession. KCB’s programmes directly strengthen that mission by equipping students with the knowledge, confidence, and professional credibility that employers value.

With KCB, candidates are able to build the skills employers are looking for, whether by receiving tuition for the Qualifying Programme, starting with our Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance, or looking for an alternative route with our MSc Governance.

Employers increasingly look for candidates who are working toward or have achieved recognised governance qualifications. KCB’s MSc Governance offers a route to GradCG status with fewer exams, making it an attractive option for those who want to progress quickly and confidently.

KCB’s tuition options to suit every level and need

KCB offers three distinct pathways into the governance profession, each designed to meet learners where they are in their career journey. Our Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance provides a strong foundation for those who are new to the field or exploring governance for the first time, offering practical insight and a clear introduction to core principles.

The MSc Governance is a comprehensive, professionally aligned route that suits students seeking deeper academic and applied understanding, and offers an alternative pathway to GradCG status with fewer exams, making it ideal for career changers or those wanting structured progression.

For students preparing for chartered status through the CGIUKI, our Qualifying Programme Tuition delivers targeted, exam‑ready teaching that supports individuals who prefer a traditional qualification route. We have Weekly, Flexible+, Flexible and Revision options available for both the November and June exams each year.

Together, these programmes create flexible entry points into the profession, ensuring that whether someone is just starting out, transitioning from another discipline, or aiming for chartered recognition, there is a pathway that fits their goals and circumstances.

A partnership built on shared values

At its core, KCB and G2 Legal partnership is about opening doors. Together, we are able to help aspiring governance professionals:

• Understand the profession
• Build the right skills
• Access credible qualifications
• Connect with employers
• Progress confidently into meaningful roles

Whether you’re exploring governance for the first time or looking to advance your career, KCB and G2 Legal are here to support your journey.

For many students, understanding the routes into the governance profession can feel overwhelming, especially with multiple qualifications, entry points and career pathways available. In our recent webinar with CGIUKI, we broke down the journey clearly, showing how students at every stage can progress toward becoming a CGIUKI Chartered Governance Professional.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on existing experience, KCB offers tuition for the CGIUKI Qualifying Programme, in addition to two strong pathways designed to help you move forward with confidence: the CGIUKI Certificate in Compliance & Governance and the MSc Governance (accredited by CGIUKI and the University of Essex).

Here’s a recap of the key insights from the session, and how you can take your next step.

Why Governance matters more than ever

The webinar opened with a reminder of why governance is such a critical profession. Organisations rely on governance professionals to:

• Manage risk
• Maintain trust
• Support board decision-making
• Navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments

Students entering the profession today need strong judgement, technical knowledge, and the ability to handle challenging situations with confidence. That’s why structured, high-quality governance education is so important, and why choosing the right pathway for you matters.

Route 1: Staring your governance journey with the Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance

For students without a recognised degree, or those looking for a solid foundation, the CGIUKI Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance is the ideal starting point.

The certificate offers:

• A clear introduction to governance, compliance, risk and organisational structures
• Practical understanding of how governance works in real organisations
• A Level 4 qualification (equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree)
• A flexible nine-month structure designed to fit around full-time work and personal commitments

Students completing the Certificate can progress to the CGIUKI Qualifying Programme or the MSc Governance (with five years of relevant work experience), making this a valuable stepping stone for anyone beginning their governance career.

Route 2: Advancing your career – the MSc Governance

For students with a recognised degree, or progressing from the Certificate with experience, the MSc Governance offers a deeper, more advanced route into the profession.

Why students choose the MSc:

• Dual qualification: an MSc plus CGI Graduate (GradCG) status
• Delivered fully online over two years
• Guest lectures, practical insights and real-work case studies
• A supportive learning environment capped at 25 students per intake
• Opportunities to connect with peers working across governance roles

The MSc is designed for students who want to strengthen their expertise, gain practical tools, and build confidence in applying governance principles in complex organisational settings.

Which route is right for you?

During the webinar, Neill and Patrick explored how your background shapes your pathway.

Take a look at our handy chart below to help you figure out your next step.

• No recognised degree? Start with the Certificate or the CGI Foundation Programme
• Recognised degree? Choose between the Qualifying Programme or the MSc Governance
• Lawyers or accountants? You may be able to fast-track two modules of the Qualifying Programme.

Wherever you’re starting, KCB provides structured, supportive routes to help you progress towards chartered status.

Whether you choose the Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance, the Qualifying Programme or the MSc Governance, KCB is here to support you at every stage of your journey.

Want to learn more about career options?

G2 Legal’s CoSecCorner focuses on career development within governance and company secretarial roles.

Whether you’re returning to governance after a career break, or at the start of your career, CoSecCorner is a great please to learn about how to structure your CV, receive guidance about entering the profession, and read updates and case studies about real governance professionals. Learn more via their website.

Missed the webinar?

Watch a recording of the webinar with Neill McWilliams, Programme Director at KCB, and Patrick Courtney, Head of Membership at the CGI.

The MSc Governance is designed for professionals who want to deepen their governance knowledge and build practical, applied skills they can use immediately in their roles. Our next cohort begins 14 October 2026, and with limited spaces available, we now have only a few places remaining for those wishing to join this term.

The programme supports both experienced governance practitioners looking to formalise their expertise, and those new to the sector who want to build strong foundations. It is equally suitable for professionals working in corporate, public, or not‑for‑profit organisations. Throughout the course, students can tailor their learning through module assignments and a final governance report focused on an area of personal or professional interest.

Do I meet the entry criteria?

To join the MSc Governance, applicants must meet one of the following entry routes:

We particularly welcome applicants who have completed any of the following CGI programmes:

• Certificate in Company Secretarial Practice and Share Registration Practice
• Certificate in Corporate Governance
• Certificate in Charity Law and Governance
• Certificate in Academy Governance
• Governance Officer Apprenticeship

If you are unsure whether your experience or qualifications meet the criteria, our Programme Manager, Lauren Devine, can advise before you apply.

What will I learn on the MSc Governance?

There are nine modules in the course, including the Focused Governance Report which is written and researched at the end of the course.

Year one	Year two
Governance & Ethics	Risk Management
Research Methods & Academic Writing	Development of Strategy
Organisational Law & Compliance	The Effective Board
Financial Analysis & Decision Making	Focused Governance Report
Effective Meetings (Year 1 and 2)

How is the course taught?

The MSc lasts just over two years, with weekly online classes every Wednesday evening (18.00 – 20.30 GMT). Sessions are delivered live via Zoom, allowing students to study alongside full-time work and personal commitments.

All students also attend the CGI Annual Conference in London, taking place next year on 6–7 July 2027. This two‑day event is included in the programme fee and offers valuable opportunities for networking, in‑person learning, and practical simulations designed to strengthen board‑level skills. (Please note: accommodation, food and travel are not included.)

What do I get as part of the programme?

As part of the programme, you will receive access to the following:

• MSc Programme Handbook (full of course dates, assessment dates, academic policies and student wellbeing guides)
• University of Essex Library and Perlego
• Live online lectures
• Gues lectures
• Simulation sessions
• Dedicated tutor support
• WhatsApp group
• Attendance at the CGI Annual Conference in London (6-7 July 2027)

What are the assessments?

Assessment is varied and designed to reflect real governance practice. Students complete a mix of examinations, coursework, presentations and applied assignments. Unlike the Qualifying Programme, the MSc assesses more than exam performance alone, helping students see tangible progress in their day‑to‑day roles as they move through the course.

How do I apply?

If you feel the MSc Governance could be the tight next step for you, the application is straightforward:

1. Send your CV over to our Programme Manager, Lauren Devine
2. Once approved, we will invite you to fill out a full application form
3. After reviewing by our Programme Director, you may be invited to an final interview
4. Following a successful interview and application, you will be invited to join the October 2026 cohort

Can I find out more information before I apply?

You can learn more about the course, directly on our website, or if you email our Programme Manager Lauren Devine, she can send you the Programme Details fore the course, or put you in contact with our Programme Director to discuss the best route forward for you by taking into consideration your experience, commitments and work-life balance.

Joining the KCB Tutor Team is Terri Le Couteur, who will be teaching on the Organisational Law and Compliance module on the MSc Governance.

Terri is a Chartered Governance Professional and the Founding Director of TLC Governance, where she advises boards, executives and governance teams across listed, private and not‑for‑profit organisations. Her expertise spans multi-jurisdictions, multi-sector corporate governance frameworks, subsidiary governance, the evolving role of the Company Secretary, and governance‑related forensic review work.

Alongside her consultancy work, Terri delivers governance training for The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland, contributes written materials to the Institute’s CSQS programme, and is actively involved with the Sports Governance Academy. She also delivers AI governance masterclasses, exploring emerging technologies and their impact on governance practice. Terri is a regular speaker at governance conferences in the UK and internationally.

A Fellow of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland, Terri also holds an MSc in Corporate Governance.

Ahead of her classes, we asked Terri a few questions to get to know her better:

What originally drew you towards governance as a profession, and what has kept you passionate about it?

Growing up in Jersey in the Channel Islands, when I did, our career options essentially boiled down to three things: Farming, Hospitality, or Finance. My dad was a Farmer, so I saw firsthand just how brutal that manual lifestyle was. I definitely wasn’t sociable or resilient enough to be on my feet all day in hospitality, so finance was the natural path!

When it came down to choosing between Accounting or the Company Secretarial route, Co Sec was the obvious winner. I’ve never found numbers particularly interesting, but I’ve always loved language, interpretation, and how words shape structure. I’ve never regretted that choice for a second – Accounting would never have suited me!

What keeps me passionate after all these years is that governance sits right at that dynamic intersection of strategy, language, law, and human behaviour. It’s never static; it’s about solving real-world corporate puzzles and having a seat at the table to shape culture and drive ethical, sensible decision-making.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are most important for students entering governance roles today? 

Having technical legal and compliance knowledge is your baseline, but the real game-changer today is pragmatism and critical thinking.

Because governance relies so much on language and influence rather than just crunching numbers, boards don’t want someone who simply recites rules or says “no.” They need strategic advisors who can translate complex legal frameworks into plain, practical advice: “Here is the landscape, here is the risk, and here is how we achieve our goal safely.” You need intellectual curiosity, a solution-oriented mindset, and strong emotional intelligence. Governance is ultimately a people business.

How would you describe your teaching style and approach to helping students achieve successful results?

Highly interactive, practical, and grounded in real life. I don’t believe in just reading off slides or drowning students in pure theory.

Because I spend my working week advising boards and executive teams across different sectors, I bring real-world scenarios and live case studies straight into the classroom. We unpack what happens when things go wrong, how the law applies in practice under pressure, and how to structure arguments effectively. My goal is for students to leave class not just ready to pass an assignment or exam but equipped to handle the issue in their workplace the very next morning.

What do you enjoy most about teaching governance to postgraduate students?

I love the energy and true peer-to-peer learning. Having completed my own MSc in Corporate Governance alongside professional commitments and a young family, I completely understand the postgraduate journey-I’ve walked in their shoes!

Postgraduate students bring such a rich mix of professional backgrounds to the room. I’m genuinely looking forward to getting to know everyone and seeing what they are going to teach me along the way! I love those “lightbulb moments” in class when a student connects a legal or governance framework directly to a challenge they’ve faced in their own career. The discussions are always lively, grounded, insightful and a two-way street.

What emerging governance trends should future governance professionals be paying attention to?

Two big things: AI, and the total collapse of the wall between corporate life and broader societal expectations.

With AI, tech is leaping ahead while board oversight is playing catch-up. The challenge for future governance professionals isn’t learning how AI works under the hood; it’s asking the awkward, pragmatic questions in the boardroom-like who actually owns the risk when automated systems make mistakes, and how do we stop hype from driving poor decisions?

At the same time, societal expectations have shifted massively. Boards are under intense spotlight and can no longer just hide behind financial bottom lines or formal policies. Look at the Astronomer and Coldplay “kiss-cam” scandal-a viral moment at a concert instantly turned into a corporate governance crisis involving leadership conduct, power dynamics, and brand reputation. It proved that personal conduct, ethical culture, and societal scrutiny hit the boardroom faster than ever.

Future governance professionals need to help boards navigate that 24/7 visibility-ensuring real accountability without resorting to tick-box exercises.

If you could offer one piece of advice to students studying alongside a full time job, what would it be?

Be realistic with yourself, and don’t beat yourself up!

I’ll be totally honest: when I did my MSc, I wasn’t the textbook student who did two perfect hours of study every single night. I am a crammer at heart, balancing a busy workload and leaning heavily on high-intensity study blocks.

So my advice isn’t to pretend you’ll follow a rigid, perfect timetable. Instead, focus on high-impact learning. Master the core concepts, get comfortable applying theory to practical scenarios early on, and treat your day job as a living lab where you can test out what you learn. When you do sit down to study, make those hours count-and give yourself grace when life inevitably gets busy.

Helen Moran is an experienced governance professional with over 20 years’ experience across financial services, investment management and pension fund governance. As Assistant Company Secretary at Railpen, she provides governance and company secretarial support to trustee and subsidiary boards and committees, helping to deliver effective decision-making, regulatory compliance and strong governance practices. She has extensive expertise in board and committee administration, governance technology, statutory compliance and minute taking.

Prior to Railpen, Helen spent eight years at Octopus Investments supporting a wide range of investment, governance and risk committees, alongside company secretarial activities. Earlier in her career, she gained experience within investment management, hedge funds and financial services, supporting boards, senior executives and regulatory processes.

Helen recently achieved a Distinction in the Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance. She is passionate about promoting high standards of governance, continuous improvement and effective board administration.

1. Why did you apply to take the Certificate, and what were you hoping to achieve?

I applied to take the Certificate because, after many years of working in the governance and company secretarial profession, I wanted formal recognition of the knowledge, skills and experience I had developed throughout my career. While my practical experience had provided a strong foundation, I felt it was important to validate that expertise through a recognised qualification. I was also keen to confirm, strengthen and cement my knowledge, ensuring that my understanding reflected current best practice and professional standards. Ultimately, I hoped the Certificate would provide both personal and professional validation, enhance my credibility, and demonstrate my commitment to continuous professional development.

2. What aspects of the teaching, content or structure did you particularly enjoy, or stood out to you?

I particularly enjoyed the online teaching format, which worked especially well for me as a busy working parent. The flexibility of being able to attend sessions remotely made it much easier to balance my professional responsibilities, family commitments and studies, ensuring that I could fully engage with the course without the additional time and disruption associated with travelling.

The online sessions were highly interactive and provided an excellent opportunity to share experiences and perspectives with fellow students working across a range of sectors and organisations. Hearing how governance principles were applied in different environments broadened my understanding and added valuable context to the course content.

I also found the structure of the programme to be very effective. The lessons were well organised, engaging and thought-provoking, striking a good balance between theory and practical application. The discussions encouraged critical thinking and reflection, helping to reinforce key concepts and making the learning experience both enjoyable and directly relevant to my day-to-day role.

3. Did the course change how you see your long-term career path in governance or compliance?

Yes, the course had a positive impact on how I view my long-term career path. It reinforced my interest in the governance profession and gave me greater confidence in both my knowledge and abilities. Achieving the Certificate provided reassurance that I have a strong foundation in governance principles and practices, while also highlighting the breadth and depth of the profession.

The course has encouraged me to remain within the governance field and pursue further professional development. It has strengthened my commitment to continuous learning and motivated me to expand my knowledge through additional qualifications and ongoing professional education. As a result, I feel more confident about my future career direction and the contribution I can continue to make within the profession.

4. What skills or strengths did you discover about yourself while studying?

While studying for the Certificate, I discovered that I possess greater determination, perseverance, diligence and focus than I had previously recognised. Balancing the demands of a full-time role, family life with young children, and the requirements of the course was challenging at times, but it demonstrated my ability to remain committed to a long-term goal and manage competing priorities effectively.

The experience reinforced the importance of discipline and resilience, particularly when finding time to study alongside professional and personal responsibilities. Successfully completing the course gave me a real sense of achievement and increased my confidence in my ability to take on future professional development opportunities, even when faced with significant competing demands on my time.

5. What do you feel contributed most to achieving a distinction in the Certificate, and were there any study habits or approaches that made a real difference?

I believe the most significant factor in achieving a distinction was my commitment to fully engaging with the course from start to finish. I made a point of attending all of the online tutor-led sessions, which provided valuable opportunities to deepen my understanding of the subject matter, ask questions and participate in discussions. Actively engaging with the lessons helped me move beyond simply learning the material to really understanding and applying it.

I also ensured that I dedicated time to reading the full study text rather than relying solely on the taught sessions. As a busy working parent, this often meant making use of small pockets of time wherever I could find them, such as while waiting for my children during sports activities and other commitments. Taking a consistent and disciplined approach to studying, even in short intervals, helped me build and retain knowledge over time.

Ultimately, I think a combination of active participation, genuine interest in the subject, and a determination to make the most of every available study opportunity made the greatest difference to my success.

6. What advice would you give to someone about to start the Certificate this October?

My advice would be to embrace every opportunity the Certificate provides. Attend as many of the tutor-led sessions as possible, actively participate in discussions, and take the time to engage fully with the course material. The more you invest in the learning experience, the more you will gain from it.

I would also encourage students to build relationships with their fellow students. One of the most valuable aspects of the course is learning from people working in different sectors and organisations, gaining insights into how governance and compliance operate in a variety of settings.

Most importantly, enjoy the experience. While it requires commitment and hard work, it is an investment in your future. The knowledge, confidence, professional network and credibility you gain will continue to benefit you long after the course has ended.

From October, we’re excited to launch a new collaboration between KCB and Business Communication Academy (BCA). The partnership will give our MSc Governance students an extra edge in the workplace.

Governance is more than frameworks, compliance, and decision‑making. It is about people and the ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and persuasively is central to effective governance when presenting to senior leaders, writing for a board, and articulating complex ideas.

This is why we’re introducing a suite of communication‑focused micro‑accreditations with BCA that sit alongside the MSc. They will help students build the practical skills and professional presence needed in modern governance roles.

What is Business Communication Academy (BCA)?

BCA runs online business communication courses, designed for professionals who seek to further their careers, launch, or grow their own businesses. With flexible tuition, students are able to study online at any time, and work through modules at their own pace. A clear advantage is specific feedback from professional writers on their assignments.

BCA offers a wide range of modules for large organisations, universities and small businesses and there is a course to help everyone develop their written and presentation skills.

Modules include:

• How to Write a Presentation
• How to Write a Press Release
• Harness the Power of AI
• How to Write and Deliver an Effective Speech

And if you’re worried about not having enough time to complete a module, once enrolled you have unlimited access to the course, across any and all devices.

What our MSc Governance Students will learn

Across the year, students will complete three specialist modules delivered by BCA:

• Presentation Skills: Develop confidence, structure, and clarity when speaking in professional settings
• Articulation and Communication Skills: Learn how to express ideas with precision, impact, and authority
• Board Writing Skills: Master concise, strategic writing tailored for board papers, senior audiences, and governance reporting

These modules go beyond academic learning and will help you build real‑world communication capability. You will immediately develop strong skills that will influence your effective governance practice in your day-to-day role.

Micro‑Credentials and Professional exposure

Students who complete the MSc programme will earn two micro‑credential certificates, recognising their communication development, tangible evidence of their growing professional skillset.

They will also attend the CGI Governance Conference in July 2027 and gain exposure to industry leaders, current debates, and the wider governance community. This experience will help students expand their networks, deepen their understanding of the profession, and connect their learning to real organisational challenges.

Building skills and networks for the future

This partnership is about more than an MSc. It’s to equip students with the communication tools, confidence, and professional networks that will support their careers long after graduation. By combining academic study with practical communication training and industry engagement, we are helping students become well‑rounded governance professionals ready to make an impact.

This week, KCB kicked off the Student Wellbeing Webinar Series with accredited coach and therapist Heather Connery, who specialises in Gestalt, counselling, resilience and holistic wellbeing. Heather brings extensive experience of balancing professional study with work and life, making her guidance especially relevant for CGIUKI Qualifying Programme, MSc Governance and Certificate students.

The session focused on helping students feel calmer, more empowered and more resilient ahead of exams and during longer periods of study. Heather explored practical strategies for managing pressure, setting realistic expectations and navigating the emotional demands of professional study.

What Heather covered in the session

The session was structured around three key areas:

1. Planning and preparation for the course
2. Exploring ‘The Wobble’
3. Final reflections and motivation

Each section offered practical tools to help students build confidence and maintain balance throughout their qualification journey.

Why do I need help balancing study, work and life?

Many CGIUKI students juggle demanding careers, busy home lives and professional study. While some manage this balance naturally, many benefit from structured support to reduce the mental load.

Heather shared several practical techniques, including:

• WILO (Week In the Life Of): a realistic way to map out your time and identify where study can fit without overwhelming your schedule
• Boundary‑setting strategies: helping students communicate clearly with family, friends and colleagues about their study commitments
• Healthy expectation‑setting: recognising when perfectionism or pressure is driving stress rather than progress

These tools help students create a study routine that feels achievable, sustainable and aligned with their wellbeing.

The High-Performance Spiral™ (also known as “The Wobble”)

One of the most impactful parts of the webinar was Heather’s explanation of “The Wobble”. This is a moment many CGIUKI students experience when confidence dips, motivation drops or study suddenly feels overwhelming. Heather emphasised that The Wobble is not a doom spiral that inevitably ends in burnout. Instead, it’s a dynamic spiral that can pull you downward or upward, depending on how you respond.

Students often find themselves wobbling when they set very high expectations at a time when they’re already mentally full or tired. Small mistakes can feel bigger than they are, confidence can slip, and pressure can build until everything feels harder than it should. Heather encouraged students to pause and be brutally honest with themselves: Are these expectations realistic? Whose expectations are they? Are they expectations of my future self rather than my current capacity?

By reducing pressure, focusing on small wins and shifting attention from “mastering everything” to “improving day by day,” students can interrupt the downward spiral. As confidence rebuilds and natural ability resurfaces, the spiral begins to move upward again, helping students regain balance, clarity and resilience.

Remember why you’re doing this

Heather closed the session with a powerful reminder: every student has a ‘North Star’. A personal reason for pursuing their qualification.

Whether the Qualifying Programme is a stepping stone in your governance career or your long‑term goal in itself, investing in your studies is also an investment in your future self.

As Heather put it, “Anything challenging is going to involve a bit of challenge.” But with the right tools, mindset and support, that challenge becomes manageable, and even motivating.

Want to Join the Next Wellbeing Webinar?

Our student wellbeing programme continues next month, offering CGIUKI students practical strategies to study effectively without compromising their wellbeing. Register for our next webinar and our final one in November now.

Watch the full webinar here

Ahead of our Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance starting this October, we asked our Tutors, Helen Hopkins and Susan Wallace, what they think the benefits are of taking this course.

Helen brings a wealth of experience working for over 35 years in share registration, specialising in employee share plan administration. For the last 10 years, Helen has continued her academic studies part-time and recently completed a Master of Research (MRes) in Management with Birkbeck, University of London, obtaining the prize for the Best Overall Student in Management. She is also currently studying for a Graduate Diploma in Economics. Helen is an Associate of the CGI, on the ProShare Advisory Panel and a member of the QCA Share Schemes Expert Group. Helen is delighted that having completed the Certificate Course herself in 1990, she is now able to pass on her experience to the current students

Susan is also a proud alumna of KCB, where she completed her Chartered Governance Institute studies. Drawing on her own experience as a Company Secretary in the professional services sector, Susan encourages her students to stay curious, be a technical expert and continue to seek new governance challenges. Susan is a Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute and an experienced governance professional with a long-standing career in company secretarial practice. She is the Author of the ICSA Company Secretary’s Troubleshooter (3^rd edition, 2012) and a regular contributor to technical updates and industry publications.

With their extensive professional backgrounds and deep commitment to supporting students, Helen and Susan bring a wealth of insight into what makes the Certificate such a valuable starting point for anyone beginning their governance journey. Drawing on their academic experience, industry expertise and years of working closely with students, they shared their perspectives on why the Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance is an excellent choice for those looking to build strong foundations in governance and compliance.

1. What makes the Certificate particularly valuable compared with other foundational governance or compliance qualifications?

Helen: The Certificate provides a practical aspect to governance work. We go into the nuts and bolts of how to deal with governance and share registration tasks on a day to day basis, helping students understand exactly what they would need in the workplace. Rather than just focusing on theory, we look at how regulations and governance requirements are applied in practice and the challenges that can arise. Students come away with knowledge they can use immediately in their role, whether they are working in company secretarial, governance or share registration environments. The programme was developed specifically to meet employer needs and a practical focus remains one of its greatest strengths today.

Susan: This course not only covers the fundamentals of company law and company secretarial practice, students will also learn about important governance principles such as effective internal controls, identifying and mitigating risks, ESG and the governance of information.

2. If you were advising someone at the start of their governance career, why would you recommend this programme?

Helen: This course provides a good rounded awareness of all the different areas that students will come across during their working life. It helps them understand how the various elements of company secretarial and share registration fit together.

It also provides a networking opportunity that can stay with them throughout their career. I completed this course over 30 years ago and one of the people I studied with is someone I still see at industry events and have worked with in recent years. Those professional relationships can last your whole career.

Susan: This course runs for 9 months with online classes every two to three weeks. For someone just starting their governance career, the format of this course allows busy professionals time to explore certain aspects of company secretarial practice without the time pressure of the standard CGI qualification where students have a 10-week study programme before taking an exam.

3. What are your favourite aspects of this course?

Helen: One of the things I enjoy most about the programme is that students come from a wide range of backgrounds and organisations. They all have different experiences, and many will carry out specific parts of the course within their day to day role.

The discussions we have during the live sessions are often just as valuable as the course materials themselves because students are able to share real examples from their workplaces. This helps everyone gain first-hand insight into how governance works in practice. As a tutor, I learn something new every year from hearing about the different experiences that students bring to the course.

Susan: My favourite aspect has to be the guest speakers who join a lecture and share their governance journey. It is inspiring to hear from professionals who may have completed the Certificate course and now enjoy a fulfilling and successful career in the governance sector.

4. How does this Certificate help students build the skills and confidence needed for the Qualifying Programme or the MSc Governance?

Helen: The Certificate is a qualification in its own right, but for those looking to progress further it provides an excellent foundation. It introduces students to the main areas of corporate compliance and governance that they are likely to explore in greater depth later in their studies.

It also helps students develop the study skills and confidence needed for future qualifications.  For many people this is their first experience of formal learning for some time, so getting used to balancing study, assignments and assessments can be invaluable preparation for the Qualifying Programme or MSc Governance.

Susan: As students get to know each other and their tutors, they start to share their governance and technical experiences as well as their concerns with the group. This gives them a unique support group where they are encouraged to ask questions or share their knowledge and expertise.

5. How easy is it to fit this programme around a full time job and personal commitments?

Helen: The course runs on a Monday evening from 6pm to 7.30pm approximately every two weeks, making it manageable alongside a full-time job.  We have some students who join directly from the office after a day’s work and others who join from home.

Like any qualification, it does require discipline to complete the reading, coursework and self-study outside of the live sessions. However, the programme has been designed to be flexible, with online resources and recorded sessions available if work or personal commitments get in the way from time to time. Over the years I have taught many students who have successfully balanced demanding jobs, family responsibilities and study. It takes commitment, but it is certainly achievable.

Susan: Three of the modules are assessed by assignments and one by a short exam, giving students a lot of free time to study each module. Combined with the online classes, we hope to provide a good base where each student feels supported and able to ask questions or advice when / if they start to struggle.

6. How would you describe the assessment approach, and what can student expect when preparing for it?

Helen: Each module has its own assessment. Three modules are assessed by assignment and one module is assessed by examination. The assignments allow students to explore topics in greater depth and often relate what they have learned to situations within their own workplace. The examination focuses on testing their understanding across the syllabus and applying that knowledge to real-life scenarios.

For those who have not written an essay or sat an examination in recent years, we spend time explaining what is expected and helping students structure their work.  There is plenty of support available throughout the programme and students are encouraged to ask questions. We want them to succeed and help them build confidence in their academic skills as well as their professional knowledge.

Susan: This approach allows all students to invest time in studying and understanding a topic fully.

7. In your view, what is the strongest reason a student should choose the Certificate?

Helen: For me, the strongest reason is that the programme is genuinely relevant to the tasks people do every day. Students are not just learning theory, they are learning practical knowledge and skills that they can take straight back into the workplace. Having completed the Certificate myself many years ago, I know first-hand the value it can bring. The qualification gave me a strong foundation for my career and I am delighted to now help the next generation of governance professionals do the same.

Susan: This Certificate equips students with the essentials of company secretarial practice and governance principles and also gives them the option to progress their studies via the CGI Qualifying Programme or the MSc Governance qualification.

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The next cohort starts on Monday 5 October. If you would like to join, register here.

When you register for any of our courses across the MSc Governance, Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance, or any of our Corporate Governance Qualifying Programme modules, you’ll gain exclusive access to a dedicated WhatsApp study group. This space is designed for students to connect with peers and tutors, ask questions, share insights and exchange ideas. We encourage you to make the most of these groups as a valuable tool for deeper understanding and collaborative learning.

Peer support is essential for tackling complex topics. By interacting with classmates and tutors, students gain different perspectives, share resources and learn collaboratively. This collaborative approach makes challenging concepts easier to master and helps you stay motivated throughout your studies. Our MSc students have found the WhatsApp groups particularly helpful to bounce ideas off one another, and continue the governance conversations outside of class.

In today’s digital world, and with all our courses taught online, building a strong learning community is vital. Our WhatsApp groups provide a reliable support system where you can confidently seek guidance, share experiences, and stay connected – anytime, anywhere.

How the WhatsApp study groups are here to help you

• If you’re stuck on an exam practice question, you can post it in the group and see how your classmates approach it
• If you’re curious about learning more around the topic which you are studying, your tutor may share recommended reading to expand your knowledge
• If you have an input or opinion to share, you can participate in our polls to provide information or to contribute to the discussion on the subject matter   
• If you simply need to confirm class times or logistics, our admin team will be on hand to answer queries and will also post announcements and reminders directly in the chat

Benefits of joining the WhatsApp study group community

The WhatsApp groups have quickly become a hugely successful addition to our MSc Governance and Certificate in Corporate Compliance & Governance courses. Students consistently tell us how much they value the sense of connection these groups provide, especially given the courses are taught solely online.

For our Qualifying Programme Flexible+ students in particular, the groups offer an extra opportunity to engage with like-minded students, ask questions outside of independent study, and feel part of a supportive learning community. It also provides a clear touchpoint with our tutors, who are available to help answer any questions you have.

For students joining us this October, the groups offer a space to engage with peers, ask questions outside of class time, and feel part of a supportive learning community. They also provide a clear touchpoint with our tutors, who are available to help guide through your studies and offer clarification whenever you need it.

Whether you’re studying with us for the brief nine-months of the Certificate or the full two year of the MSc, the WhatsApp groups help you get to know your cohort, share advice and support one another. Studying alone can feel isolating, but these groups genuinely help to build a sense of community, and they’re great for networking too.

Belinda Lee Freeman is an accomplished corporate governance professional and Companies House-registered Company Secretary with over 25 years of experience spanning internal audit, risk management, and strategic corporate administration.

She currently serves as the Company Secretary for RSM International Ltd, an eight-billion-dollar global accounting and advisory network. In this role, she reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and manages constitutional, board, and compliance matters across international jurisdictions. Her strategic oversight extends to the Diligent Strategic Advisory Board, where she has served as an appointed member since September 2025.

Key Career Highlights:

• Corporate Governance & Secretarial Practice: Appointed Company Secretary at RSM in June 2024, she directs statutory board preparations, maintains board minutes, and facilitates global committee operations. She has been instrumental in supporting multiple major constitutional revisions for the global network as part of a wider team
• Risk Management & Internal Audit: Spent over a decade as an internal audit client manager, specialising in public sector and NHS healthcare trust auditing. She has also facilitated high-level enterprise risk management (ERM) workshops and provided specialist training to international banking and governmental delegates
• Public Sector Foundations: Built her early career in public sector compliance, serving as a Senior Internal Auditor for the former UK Office of Fair Trading and the Durban City Council in South Africa

Belinda holds a Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance from the CGIUKI, undertaken with KCB. She is an active affiliate member of the Global Institute of Internal Auditors, certificate holder for the Institute of Risk Management and a professional subscriber to The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland.

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1. Did the Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance change how you see your long‑term career path in governance or compliance?

The course has definitely shifted my focus from day-to-day operational execution of activities, such as minute taking and statutory filings, to a more strategic approach of engaging with and supporting high-level board dynamics, structural compliance and global governance frameworks. Gaining formal, accredited knowledge in governance reinforces my skill and capability to support international boards through complex regulatory shifts. The certification formally unites my long-standing career in public sector internal audit and risk management with modern corporate compliance.

2. How did the Certificate help you connect the dots between your day-to-day responsibilities and wider governance practice?

Successfully completing the Certificate in Corporate Compliance and Governance has substantially enhanced how I view the relationship between my day-to-day operations and global governance practices through providing a meticulous, logical framework that transforms repetitive corporate secretarial duties into strategic avenues of the organisation’s architecture. By bridging the gap between daily operations and high-level compliance theory, the qualification enables me to deliver high-value, risk-based guidance to the international board and my immediate colleagues.

3. Was there a particular module or topic that you found unexpectedly engaging and helpful to your job?

I enjoyed all four modules of the learning experience but module 1 in respect of The Company, and more specifically the role of the Company Secretary, has broadened my thinking and understanding of my role as a CoSec. What was really interesting was how the training reframed the Company Secretary role not merely as a minute-taker, but as an objective critical sounding board for the chairperson, CEO and COO. It gave me the theoretical backing to lean more confidently into my role as an independent advisor on corporate governance required processes and implement best practices.

4. What benefits did you notice early on that made you feel the course was worth the investment?

The immediate returns on the course investment became apparent from the outset as we navigated through the course work module by module. I felt an increased professional confidence, including my seat at the Boardroom table supporting the chairperson as meetings took place. I also participated in discussion at the Boardroom table, contributing to agenda items with confidence and purpose.

The writing of the assignments was particularly helpful to challenge me on my preparation of board packs, briefing papers and the approach to understanding and interpreting the set of articles. In addition, having the opportunity to learn alongside and network with other like-minded governance professionals has broadened my thinking and understanding from different perspectives.

5. How did you find studying alongside working?

Honestly? Balancing homelife, work and study was challenging. It required careful planning, investment and discipline. But it wasn’t just on me. I must acknowledge the support from my family, my employer and KCB too; I know I couldn’t have completed it without their encouragement and backing.

While it was challenging, there was also a strong benefit; by working alongside study, I was able to apply aspects of a governance framework to my current workload and activities. This was helpful in ensuring that the application of the theory was instant and put into practice immediately.

6. What would you say to someone who is thinking about enrolling for the Certificate this October?

Do it!! If you are a governance or compliance professional seeking to increase and elevate your role from simply being operational to a strategic boardroom advisor, my advice is simple: Enrol now! The governance landscape is rapidly changing and by enrolling on this course, you are keeping up with changes, but more importantly you will be able to lead with these changes!

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Our next cohort starts on 5 October, and lasts 9 months. If you’re interested, enroll today while spaces remain.