The growing importance of corporate governance in New Zealand business has seen Chartered Secretaries New Zealand Inc. (CSNZ) change its name to Governance New Zealand to better reflect its membership and sphere of influence.
Linda Noble, Chief Executive, Governance New Zealand, said that the growing sophistication and maturity of New Zealand business is putting increasing emphasis on good governance.
“Public and political concern about corporate governance, ethics, probity, accountability and international best practice is at an all-time high. Those responsible for governance assist and guide the owners, directors and management of companies and organisations in their pursuit of profit and growth.
“They must also act with integrity and independence to protect the interests of the company, shareholders, stakeholders and employees.
“Directors have never been under closer scrutiny for their actions and decisions from regulatory authorities, shareholders and the public. It has heightened awareness around accountability, sound governance and transparency,” she said.
Noble said that the diversity of Governance New Zealand’s membership is indicative of the extensive areas of a business that governance plays a vital role in.
“Our members provide specialist skills and technical knowledge to Boards and Directors in their role as company secretary, legal advisor, auditor, risk and compliance manager, or senior executive. The name Chartered Secretaries New Zealand no longer accurately reflects the breadth and depth of our membership,” she said.
Governance New Zealand’s vision is to be the professional body of choice for executives and managers involved in efficient and effective corporate management and governance.
“And we are just not talking about private enterprise. The not-for-profit sector is substantial with many organisations being similar in size to a large corporate. While these organisations are working in the charitable not-for-profit sector, they are run like a commercial business.”
Governance New Zealand is the New Zealand Division of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators established as a professional body by Royal Charter in 1902. Its professional standards and educational qualifications are recognised internationally, especially throughout the Commonwealth.
