My Fast Track to Fellowship: Becoming a Chartered Secretary and Chartered Governance Professional

Embarking on the journey to achieve the Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute (FCIS) as a Chartered Secretary (CS) and Chartered Governance Professional (CGP) designation has been a transformative experience for me. As the Company Secretary at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) since October 2020, this achievement marks a significant milestone in my career. Practising as a licensed company secretary under the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), I met the general requirements set out in the Companies Act 2016. However, I decided to take the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme (CGQP) exams offered by the Chartered Governance Institute (CGI). The journey towards achieving these esteemed titles was challenging, but it provided valuable learning experiences that have contributed to my professional development and expertise in corporate governance.

The Road to Professional Excellence

The Chartered Governance Institute (CGI), formerly known as the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA), is recognised globally as the leading professional body for Chartered Secretaries (CS) and Chartered Governance Professionals (CGP). Founded in 1891, the Institute today has more than 29,000 members in over 80 countries. The name change to The Chartered Governance Institute was formalised on 16 September 2019, positioning it as the qualifying and membership organisation for anyone involved in governance. It is the only international organisation that can offer a qualification empowering individuals with skills that transcend borders.

The Malaysian Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (MAICSA), founded in 1959, has played a pivotal role in my professional journey. As an affiliate body to the CGI, MAICSA offers a robust platform for professional development in corporate governance. With over 4,200 members, MAICSA is dedicated to maintaining high standards of integrity and ethical values within the corporate secretarial profession.

Embracing the Fast Track Pathway: CGQP vide the Fast Track Professional Route

The Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme (CGQP) ’s Fast Track Professional Route was instrumental in my journey. The CGQP offers a Fast Track Professional Route for individuals who are either law practitioners or in-house legal counsels with a minimum of 5 years of experience in active legal practice as an Advocate and Solicitor or for accountants.

Modules and Examinations

The Fast Track pathway typically requires candidates to complete two essential modules: Risk Management and Corporate Governance. I opted to take an additional optional paper on Taxation to broaden my expertise. Each module equipped me with crucial skills and knowledge to excel in corporate governance roles.

Risk Management

Understanding risk is fundamental to governance. This module provided insights into identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks within an organisation, ensuring that strategic objectives are met while safeguarding stakeholder interests.

Corporate Governance

This module delved into the principles and practices that form the backbone of effective governance. It emphasised the roles and responsibilities of board members, the importance of transparency, and the need for accountability in corporate decision-making.

Taxation (Optional)

To enhance my understanding of the financial aspects of governance, I studied Taxation. This optional paper equipped me with the knowledge to advise on tax-related matters, ensuring that organisations comply with regulations while optimising their tax strategies.

Becoming a Member

Becoming a member of the Chartered Governance Institute (CGI) is a significant achievement, marking a professional’s commitment to excellence in corporate governance and company secretarial practice. Membership is divided into either a graduateship, associateship, or fellowship. Here is an overview of the process and requirements for each grade.

Graduateship

• Successful candidates who pass the Institute’s examinations are automatically transferred to the grade of Graduateship and may use the designatory letters “Grad CGI”. 
• This is a temporary grade, allowing graduates to gain the necessary practical experience required for higher levels of membership.

Associateship

• To be eligible for Associateship, graduates must have at least six years of relevant work experience in governance, company secretarial practice, or a related field. This requirement can be reduced by three years if the candidate has completed full-time recognised tertiary education. 
• Designation: Upon approval, Associates can use the designatory letters “ACIS (CS) (CGP)”.

Fellowship

• Fellowship is the senior grade of membership, reserved for highly experienced professionals. To become a Fellow, Associates must have at least eight years of relevant working experience, with a minimum of three years at a senior level.
• Designation: Upon approval, Fellows can use the designatory letters “FCIS (CS) (CGP)”.

Those who attain Fellowship have demonstrated exceptional expertise, leadership, and dedication to the highest standards of corporate governance and company secretarial practice. This achievement is recognised globally, signifying personal success and professional status in the field.

Over eight years of experience, with my background as a former legal practitioner and in-house legal counsel, including IIUM Deputy Legal Advisor as well as former Deputy Dean, along with my current roles as an Associate Professor of Law (teaching company law) and IIUM Company Secretary, and my membership in a recognised professional body, made me eligible for the Fellowship. This recognition acknowledges my extensive professional experience and allows me to utilise my expertise during the qualification process.

Benefits of FCIS (CS) (CGP) Designations

Achieving the FCIS (CS) (CGP) designations has significantly boosted my credibility as a corporate governance professional. These titles signal a high level of expertise and a commitment to upholding the highest governance standards, instilling confidence in clients and stakeholders.

Enhanced Credibility

These prestigious titles signal a high level of expertise and commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance, instilling confidence in clients and stakeholders.

Comprehensive Knowledge

The rigorous qualification process has given me a comprehensive understanding of governance principles. This knowledge enables me to offer holistic advice encompassing legal and governance perspectives, ensuring that organisations operate with transparency and accountability.

Strategic Advantage

With a strong foundation in corporate governance, I can help organisations navigate regulatory complexities, enhance compliance, and implement best practices. This strategic advantage is crucial in today’s dynamic business environment, where governance plays a key role in sustainable success.

Ethical Leadership

The FCIS (CS) (CGP) designations underscore the importance of ethical decision-making and leadership. As a Fellow of CGI, I am committed to promoting ethical practices within organisations and fostering a culture of integrity and responsibility.

Professional Development

Continuous learning and professional development are integral to maintaining these designations. This commitment ensures that I stay updated with the latest developments in governance and law, enabling me to provide informed and practical guidance.

Recognition in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the FCIS and ACIS qualifications are recognised by the Government as equivalent to an Honours Degree, whereas the GradCG qualification is recognised as equivalent to a General Degree. This recognition underscores the value and prestige of these professional designations, equating them to significant academic achievements.

Conclusion

My journey to becoming a Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute as a Chartered Secretary and Chartered Governance Professional, FCIS (CS) (CGP) through the Fast Track pathway has been challenging and rewarding. This achievement reflects my dedication to excellence in corporate governance and my commitment to continuous professional growth. For those considering this pathway, it offers a valuable opportunity to formalise your expertise and gain recognition for your contributions to the field.

By integrating legal insights with governance principles, I am better positioned to support organisations in achieving their goals while upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency. This journey has not only enhanced my professional credentials but also enriched my ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of corporate governance.

Joining a professional body like MAICSA and pursuing the CGI qualifications is not just about gaining titles; it’s about committing to lifelong learning and ethical practice. I encourage all aspiring corporate secretaries and governance professionals to take this path, as it will undoubtedly lead to personal and professional growth and provide the tools needed to navigate the complex corporate governance landscape effectively.