Why Startups Need a Professional Company Secretary from Day One

Starting a business in Singapore is exciting — but in the rush to launch, many entrepreneurs overlook one of the most important compliance roles: the company secretary. While it may seem like an administrative formality, engaging a professional company secretary from day one can save you time, prevent legal issues, and keep your business running smoothly.

Let’s explore why this role matters and how it supports startups from the ground up.

Is a Company Secretary Required by Law in Singapore?

Yes — under the Companies Act 1967, all private limited companies in Singapore must appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation.

Failure to do so can lead to penalties and may affect your ability to carry out essential business functions, such as filing returns or issuing shares.

What Does a Professional Company Secretary Do?

A professional company secretary is responsible for ensuring that your business complies with regulatory requirements. This includes:

• Preparing and filing Annual Returns with ACRA
  
• Maintaining statutory registers (directors, shareholders, etc.)
  
• Advising on corporate governance and compliance deadlines
  
• Drafting resolutions for key decisions (e.g., appointing directors, issuing shares)
  
• Coordinating Board and General Meetings and documenting minutes
  
• Ensuring accurate filings through BizFile+, ACRA’s online portal
  

Why Startups Need This Role from Day One

1. Legal Compliance from the Start

Startups often move fast — but compliance cannot be an afterthought. A professional secretary ensures you meet statutory deadlines, file correct documents, and avoid penalties. This allows founders to focus on growth, not admin.

2. Investor Readiness

When seeking funding, investors expect clear, accurate records. Share registers, board resolutions, and corporate filings must be in order. A professional secretary helps ensure your records are due diligence ready.

3. Structured Growth

As your business grows, you may need to issue new shares, appoint directors, or amend your company constitution. These actions require proper documentation and ACRA filings, which your secretary handles — legally and promptly.

4. Risk Mitigation

Improper filings, missed deadlines, or errors in shareholding records can lead to legal disputes or non-compliance penalties. A secretary protects the business by managing these risks proactively.

5. Saves Time and Reduces Stress

Startups have limited resources. Outsourcing corporate compliance to a professional means less distraction, fewer errors, and more time to focus on building the business.

What to Look for in a Company Secretary

• Knowledge of Singapore company law and ACRA procedures
  
• Experience with startup-specific needs (e.g., fundraising, share issuances)
  
• Ability to scale services as your business grows
  
• Efficient use of digital tools for filings, records, and communication

Summary

Having a professional company secretary from day one isn’t just about ticking a legal box — it’s about setting your startup up for sustainable growth, investor confidence, and regulatory peace of mind.

Most trusted Corporate Secretarial Services in Singapore

Don’t let regulatory complexities impede your business growth. Counto’s elite corporate secretarial services are your strategic advantage for flawless compliance and governance in Singapore’s competitive business landscape. To learn more, speak to us directly on our chatbot, email [email protected], or use our  contact form to get started.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Transferring Company Shares: How a Company Secretary Ensures Compliance

Changes to Company Details? How Your Company Secretary Handles ACRA Notifications

Digital Company Secretary Services: Convenience for Busy Entrepreneurs