Tell us about your professional experience before discovering The Corporate Governance Institute

I have built my career within the higher education sector, specialising in academic and corporate governance. From 2018 to December 2025, I served as Clerk to the Board of Governors at Edge Hill University, where I fulfilled the Company Secretary function alongside a broad portfolio of governance responsibilities. This included leading board and committee administration, ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, maintaining governance frameworks and policies, and supporting board effectiveness and evaluation. I also acted as a key liaison between executive and non-executive stakeholders, advising senior leadership and governors on governance best practice and informed decision-making.

What challenges or opportunities were you facing in your career or on your board before taking our course?

Having spent 23 years in one organisation, I reached a natural transition point and was keen to explore new opportunities and broaden my professional experience. I accepted voluntary severance to create space to reflect, develop further and consider how best to apply my governance expertise in different organisational contexts.

Why did you choose to study for the Certified Company Secretary Professional to help with these challenges/opportunities?

I chose the Certified Company Secretary Professional as a globally recognised and highly credible qualification. It provides a clear benchmark of expertise, enabling me to formally demonstrate my capabilities and breadth of experience, particularly when exploring opportunities across different sectors where recognised governance credentials add authority and professional distinction.

Can you describe any particular elements of the course that stood out to you or made a significant impact?

The risk module was particularly impactful, deepening my understanding of risk governance, appetite, and oversight. It enhanced my ability to engage with strategic risk at board level and further strengthened my approach to advising on risk frameworks, making it highly relevant to both my experience and broader governance practice.

How has completing this course influenced your career, leadership approach, or governance or Company Secretary-related skills?

Completing this qualification, with Distinction, has enhanced my professional profile at a key transition point, complementing my extensive experience with a respected, globally recognised credential. The diploma has deepened my knowledge in areas such as risk, compliance and board effectiveness, further strengthening my ability to support high-performing boards. The course has also refined my approach to governance, encouraging a more strategic and integrated perspective when advising senior stakeholders. Importantly, it reinforces the breadth and depth of my expertise in a way that is readily understood across sectors, positioning me strongly to contribute effectively in a variety of governance contexts and organisational environments.

What did you find most beneficial about studying with The Corporate Governance Institute?

I particularly valued the flexibility of the online programme, which allowed me to study and complete assessments at my own pace alongside other commitments. The high-quality resources and in-module learning checks were especially beneficial, providing reassurance on progress and helping to reinforce key concepts throughout the course in a structured and engaging way.

What advice would you give future learners wishing to pursue the Certified Company Secretary Professional?

The Certified Company Secretary Professional is a highly rewarding and valuable qualification, but it requires genuine commitment. Even with significant prior experience, I found it necessary to engage deeply with the curriculum and dedicate time to revision. Prospective learners should plan their time carefully and approach the course with focus to achieve the best outcomes.

How likely are you to recommend our certifications to a colleague?

5/5