The Assistant Director of Corporate Governance plays a pivotal leadership role in ensuring the highest standards of governance across the organization, driving the company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy, and serving as a critical liaison between the Board of Directors and executive management. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep knowledge of corporate governance principles, ESG frameworks, and board management practices.
The Assistant Director will lead the development and implementation of governance frameworks and ESG strategies aligned with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations. Overseeing the Secretariat, he/she will ensure the effective functioning of the Board and its committees, manage governance processes, and maintain statutory and regulatory compliance.
Corporate Governance
- Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of the organisation's corporate governance framework, policies, and procedures
- Provide strategic advice to the Board, CEO, and executive leadership on governance best practices, regulatory requirements, and governance risks
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements applicable to nonprofit and charitable organisations (e.g. charity regulations etc.)
- Oversee governance reviews and internal audits
- Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership throughout the organization
- Lead and manage governance-related incidents or reputational risks, ensuring minimal disruption and full accountability
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance)
- Oversee the development and implementation of the organisation's ESG strategy in alignment with business objectives and stakeholder expectations
- Oversee ESG data collection, performance monitoring, reporting, and assurance
- Drive sustainability and ESG reporting in compliance with global frameworks and standards
- Engage board members, executives, external partners and other stakeholders on ESG matters
- Promote ESG awareness and culture throughout the organization through training and communication initiative
Board Secretariat
- Oversee the operations of the Corporate Secretariat and lead the effective delivery of secretariat services to the Board and its committees (e.g., Audit, Risk, Nomination & Remuneration, Sustainability)
- Ensure timely and accurate maintenance of board records, legal filings and governance documents
- Support new director onboarding and ongoing director education
- Facilitate board communications and ensure the smooth operation of governance systems in supporting decision-making, delegation of authority, and internal controls
Leadership and Team Management
- Lead and manage a team, providing guidance, support, and mentorship to ensure high performance and professional development
- Assess developmental needs and expertise required of staff and ensure training opportunities for their growth and development for the team and set direction for capability development initiatives
- Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning
Educational Qualifications
- . Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Law, Governance, or a related field. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is a plus
Relevant Experience
- Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in a corporate governance, board management or ESG-related role, preferably within the non-profit sector or sustainable development organizations
- Strong knowledge of corporate governance principles, ESG frameworks, and regulatory requirements related to non-profit organizations
- Experience working with boards of directors, managing cross-functional teams, and supporting senior executives
Competencies
- Communication & Influence: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to engage and influence internal and external stakeholders with credibility and clarity
- Good stakeholder engagement and management: actively seeking inputs from various stakeholders, and fostering positive relationships with board members, employees, and external partners
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to link governance and ESG principles to strategic and operational goals
- Integrity and Confidentiality: High ethical standards and ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism
- Strong sense of responsibility, accountability, resourcefulness and initiative
- Adaptable and open to change, capable of navigating evolving regulatory environments, emerging sustainability trends, and addressing unexpected challenge
