About Us
We support Institute members and students in the South East of England. This includes Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Hampshire, Isle of White, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, Sussex, West and South London and Kent.
We are volunteers who work together with the team at the Institute to provide free and low cost CPD activities, local networking opportunities and activities which raise the Institute’s profile. Free subscribers and non-members who would like to learn more about the Institute are also welcome to join us.
Our branch committee meets regularly to plan events and discuss new areas of activity. If you would like to make a suggestion of what you’d like us to focus on in the coming months, or are interested in finding out more about what the committee does, please get in touch.
Upcoming events
Our branches offer a variety of events to support your professional development at every stage of your career. Whether you to want brush up on your knowledge and skills, network with peers or add to your CPD, we run sessions on a variety of topics and in a variety of formats, with contributions from experts and guest speakers across the governance community.
Building Your Governance Career 2026
A governance professional can wear many hats, and having the right skill set to progress in your career is crucial for achieving success and enhancing job satisfaction. To build a career in governance a combination of education, skills, experience, networking, and a passion for promoting ethical practices and effective decision-making within organisations is required.
Join us for an empowering half-day summit designed exclusively for Graduates, new Associates, and early-career professionals venturing into the world of governance. Discover valuable insights and strategies to unleash your potential and pave a successful path in governance.
At this event, you will:
• Explore how modern technology and digital tools can support career development, improve effectiveness and enhance your professional impact.
• Develop practical approaches to communicating with confidence, building trusted relationships, demonstrating initiative and influencing different audiences.
• Learn about the different routes into governance, including graduate and trainee opportunities, career changes, transferable skills and professional qualifications.
• Gain practical tips for securing your next role, from identifying suitable opportunities and presenting your experience to networking and preparing for applications and interviews.
Latest Blogs
Blog
The Institute's Response to the UK Stewardship Code Consultation
The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has finished consulting on its proposed changes to the Code. The UK Stewardship Code sets a standard for how investors manage their responsibilities and aims to ensure that investment decisions drive long-term value and create positive societal outcomes.
Meet the team
The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland maintains a presence in the South East of England through its local branch committee. The local branch strives to enhance the presence of the Institute within Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, Sussex, West and South London and Kent, to support members and students throughout their careers and study programmes, as qualified or aspiring governance professionals. If you're interested in joining the committee, contact us.
Co-Chair
Sophie Lane ACG
Sophie is a solicitor and Chartered Governance Professional (ACG), bringing extensive experience across law firms, professional and financial services, and the insurance sector. Her career has combined legal expertise with a passion for effective governance, from advising boards and senior leaders to shaping governance frameworks and supporting complex corporate transactions. Most recently, Sophie was Senior Manager – Governance at Elemental Co Sec Limited, following nearly seven years at Ageas UK, where she served as Deputy Company Secretary and supported the Boards and Committees on governance, regulation and company law.
Outside work, Sophie is happiest outdoors – particularly walking and spending time by the sea.
Co-Chair
Susie Lamb ACG
Susie is an Associate member of the CGI with 7 years of company secretarial experience. She completed the LLM in Corporate Governance and Law at the University of Portsmouth in 2016 and began working for Ageas UK shortly afterwards where she is currently Assistant Company Secretary. Susie is focused on championing and implementing governance best practice across the business, providing practical support to numerous committees and ensuring compliance with regulatory and statutory obligations.
Outside of work Susie can be fund getting her cold water fix in various lakes, rivers and seas!
Contact the South East branch
For membership and study enquiries please contact the student and membership team:
For branch support and event queries please contact the branch support team