About Company
Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) is one of the largest and most diverse housing groups in the East Midlands. For over 45 years, we have been committed to providing affordable homes, support, and services to thousands of people across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. We believe everyone deserves a place to call home and the opportunity to thrive. Our diverse portfolio includes general needs housing, supported housing for vulnerable adults, care homes, and specialist services. We are a not-for-profit organisation, driven by our social purpose and values, with a robust governance framework crucial to our success and the trust placed in us by our residents, partners, and regulators. Joining NCHA means becoming part of a passionate team dedicated to making a tangible difference in our communities, fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued.
Job Description
Are you a highly experienced governance professional with a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for ethical leadership? Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) is seeking a dedicated and proactive Board Secretary – Governance to play a pivotal role in ensuring the highest standards of corporate governance across our organisation. This critical position is at the heart of our operations, providing comprehensive support to our Board of Management and its committees, ensuring statutory and regulatory compliance, and facilitating effective decision-making processes. You will be instrumental in upholding transparency, accountability, and best practice, directly contributing to NCHA’s mission of providing quality homes and services to those who need them most. The Board Secretary will serve as a trusted advisor on all governance matters, managing the intricate flow of information, preparing high-quality board papers, minute-taking, and advising on constitutional, procedural, and legal aspects relevant to our housing association status. This role demands exceptional organisational skills, a deep understanding of corporate law and regulatory frameworks specific to the housing sector, and the ability to build strong, credible relationships with board members, executive leadership, and external stakeholders. If you are committed to upholding the integrity and effectiveness of a values-driven organisation and thrive in a dynamic, impactful environment, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive secretarial support to the Board of Management and its various committees, including agenda setting, paper circulation, accurate minute taking, and follow-up on action points.
- Act as a primary advisor to the Board and senior leadership on matters of corporate governance, constitutional requirements, and compliance with statutory and regulatory obligations (e.g., Housing Regulator, Charity Commission).
- Ensure NCHA's governance framework, policies, and procedures are robust, up-to-date, and aligned with best practice and legislative changes.
- Manage the annual cycle of Board and committee meetings, including forward planning, performance evaluations, and new member inductions.
- Oversee the maintenance of statutory registers and corporate records, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
- Facilitate effective communication channels between the Board, executive team, and external auditors/regulators.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of governance training programs for Board members and senior staff.
- Manage conflicts of interest registers and ensure appropriate declarations and actions are taken.
- Support the Chair and CEO in promoting a culture of good governance throughout the organisation.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Company Secretary, Board Secretary, or similar governance role within a regulated environment (ideally housing, charity, or public sector).
- In-depth knowledge of corporate governance principles, company law, and regulatory frameworks applicable to the housing sector in the UK.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with particular expertise in drafting complex board papers and producing accurate, concise minutes.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
- High level of integrity, discretion, and confidentiality.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and governance software/portals.
Preferred Qualifications
- ICSA (Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland) qualification or equivalent professional accreditation.
- Degree in Law, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Experience working with non-executive directors and senior leadership teams.
- Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities within the social housing sector.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and generous pension scheme.
- Excellent holiday entitlement, increasing with service.
- Access to a comprehensive employee assistance program.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Flexible working options (where applicable to the role).
- Employee recognition schemes.
- Health and wellbeing initiatives.
- Discount scheme for various retailers and services.
How to Apply
If you are ready to bring your expertise to a meaningful role and contribute to a leading housing association, please click on the application link below. We look forward to receiving your application and learning more about how your skills and experience align with NCHA’s values and this exciting opportunity.