Company Secretary

The Company Secretary in the liquor industry plays a critical role in ensuring the company adheres to corporate governance standards, regulatory requirements, and legal frameworks specific to the industry. This position is responsible for managing corporate records, assisting in board meetings, and ensuring compliance with laws, particularly those affecting the alcohol and beverage sector. The Company Secretary will also support senior leadership in legal and strategic matters, ensuring the company's operations align with industry standards and regulations.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Corporate Governance**:

- Oversee corporate governance practices and ensure compliance with the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the liquor industry.
- Serve as a key advisor to the Board of Directors and senior management on governance issues, compliance, and legal risks.
- Ensure the proper functioning of the Board, Committees, and shareholder meetings in accordance with corporate laws and regulations.
- Organize and attend Board and Committee meetings, preparing agendas, minutes, and resolutions.
- **Compliance Management**:

- Monitor and ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory obligations, including those related to the sale, distribution, and production of alcoholic beverages.
- Stay updated on liquor licensing laws, excise duties, health and safety regulations, and other industry-specific laws and regulations.
- Liaise with relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., excise departments, food safety authorities) to ensure that the company adheres to all required licenses and permits.
- Advise on potential legal and regulatory risks, providing guidance on how to mitigate them effectively.
- **Corporate Filings and Reporting**:

- Prepare and file required documents with government authorities, including annual reports, financial statements, compliance certifications, and other corporate filings.
- Ensure all company documents, including Articles of Association, financial records, and contracts, are maintained in an organized and legally compliant manner.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with the statutory reporting and disclosure requirements of the stock exchange (if applicable).
- **Legal & Contractual Support**:

- Review and draft legal documents, such as contracts, agreements, licenses, and regulatory submissions, related to the business operations of the company.
- Advise on mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, or other corporate restructurings in line with the legal and regulatory requirements of the liquor industry.
- Work closely with external legal advisors on complex legal matters affecting the business.
- **Risk Management**:

- Identify and manage legal, regulatory, and compliance risks, particularly those specific to the liquor industry, such as distribution laws, advertising restrictions, and product safety.
- Ensure that the company’s risk management policies align with industry standards and mitigate potential liabilities.
- **Liaison with Stakeholders**:

- Act as the primary point of contact for shareholders, investors, and regulatory authorities.
- Maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry associations.
- Manage shareholder meetings, ensuring compliance with disclosure and reporting requirements.
- **Training & Development**:

- Educate and train internal stakeholders, including senior management and other employees, on legal and compliance requirements relevant to the liquor industry.
- Ensure that staff members are informed about policies and procedures related to legal and regulatory compliance.
- **Ethics & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)**:

- Ensure the company’s practices are aligned with ethical standards, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and industry best practices.
- Monitor adherence to the company’s code of conduct, ethical guidelines, and industry-specific regulations, such as marketing restrictions for alcohol products.

**Skills and Qualifications**:

- **Educational Qualifications**: Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Administration, or related field. A degree or certification in Company Secretaryship (ACS/CS) is essential.
- **Experience**: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience as a Company Secretary, with a solid understanding of corporate governance, compliance, and legal matters, particularly in the liquor or FMCG industry.
- **Industry Knowledge**: Strong knowledge of the liquor industry, including relevant laws and regulations related to the production, distribution, sale, and advertising of alcoholic beverages.
- **Legal & Regulatory Expertise**: In-depth knowledge of corporate laws, excise duties, licensing laws, and other regulatory frameworks affecting the alcohol industry.
- **Communication Skills**: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to liaise with the Board of Directors, regulators, shareholders, and other stakeholders.
- **Problem-Solving**: Ability