Company Secretary

At NEXT, not only are we one of the UK’s largest fashion retailers, but we’re also one of the largest listed companies, full-stop. Selling our products and thousands of world-famous brands, both in-store and online. What’s more, we’re growing. Fast. And it’s the kind of growth and investment that is exciting for everyone in our business. 

About the role

As the Company Secretary for NEXT, your main role will be to advise the Board of Directors on their legal duties, responsibilities, and best practices in corporate governance. You'll make sure that we follow the UK Corporate Governance Code and Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). 

Another large part of your job will be to make sure we comply with all the regulations - following the Companies Act 2006, the Listing Rules, Disclosure Guidance, and Transparency Rules. 

As the leader of our company secretariat team, you'll collaborate with our legal, finance, and compliance teams to make sure everything runs smoothly whilst line managing one individual and being responsible for a team of 9 in total. 

With regards to the Board and its committees, you'll help organise meetings, prepare agendas, and take minutes. It'll be up to you to make sure that decisions made in Board meetings are communicated and put into action. And let's not forget about managing the Annual General Meeting (AGM), including getting everything ready like notices, resolutions, and engaging with our shareholders.

Lastly, you'll be responsible for overseeing the preparation of our Annual Report and other communications with our shareholders. And when it comes to share schemes and dividends, you'll work closely with our registrars and financial teams. You'll need to make sure we're following the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) and keeping track of insider lists. 

About you

Essential

• Membership of the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (ICSA) or equivalent qualification.

• Strong understanding of UK company law, corporate governance, and regulatory requirements.

• Proven experience as a Company Secretary or in a similar governance role within a listed company.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with stakeholders at all levels.

• Highly organised, with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Desirable

• Experience in shareholder engagement and managing institutional investors.

• Leadership and team management experience.

• Employee share scheme experience.