What's Compliance Support Really About?
Posted on 30th June 2023 at 16:20
When people ask me what I do, I’m always fascinated by their reaction. Compliance isn’t a very sexy term and many people have no idea what’s involved. Even if they are totally clued up about compliance, people don’t generally get excited about it. That’s unless they have strong views about so-called ‘red tape’ and ‘bureaucracy’ – then it definitely sparks a debate!
So, I thought I’d give a bit of an insight into my business, to dispel some of the myths and explain why compliance is more than just a tick-box exercise.
What is compliance support?
It’s about helping organisations to work within particular rules or standards, usually set by government, regulatory bodies, or industry organisations.
Having spent many years in the insurance sector with Lloyd’s of London, I have specialist skills in syndicate compliance – an area that focuses on meeting the particular demands of this highly regulated industry.
But I work with a range of businesses, organisations and charities to ensure they have a clear picture of their obligations and how they are being met. Day-to-day I provide hands-on support such as improving processes, carrying out due diligence checks, updating databases, minuting meetings and completing risk assessments – as well as many other tasks which get clients to where they need to be.
Don’t businesses manage compliance themselves?
Many larger businesses, or those in particular industries, have in-house compliance teams. But as new regulations come in, or when resources are stretched, they often need extra support.
And with the growing burden of compliance, many small businesses struggle to keep up with ever-changing requirements. So, I offer specialist compliance and company secretarial expertise as and when they need it.
Charities, clubs and societies often need a similar skill-set, so I frequently provide Board and Committee support, such as meeting organisation and minuting services.
Is compliance just about ticking boxes?
The general aim of compliance is to protect consumers, employees and other stakeholders, and there can be serious financial and reputational consequences if you don’t get it right.
I’m not there to watch over people with a judgemental eye and a red pen though! That couldn’t be further from the truth. Many businesses have grown organically, and it can be a bit like untangling spaghetti sometimes. But I’m a do-er. I like to roll up my sleeves, to simplify everything and make compliance as easy as possible so it’s no longer a headache.
It’s my mission to make compliance a positive part of everyday business. By helping clients to get their ducks in a row, I help my clients not only work within the rules but help them gain many other potential benefits, such as improving efficiency, reputation and staff retention. Compliance really can be good for business.
What’s a typical day look like?
There really isn’t such a thing as a typical day. I tend to work at the very heart of an organisation, often dealing with complex or sensitive information, so a vital part of the relationship with my clients is a strong sense of trust. That’s probably why I am frequently asked to get involved in a wide range of tasks beyond the initial project.
The variety is one of the best things about running my own business. One day I can be acting as an independent minute-taker in a HR meeting, the next I’m working with a construction firm from the MD’s kitchen, managing everything from financial reporting to booking flights!
What’s next for Corporate Assist?
When I first became self-employed, I offered more general virtual assistant support, as I thought that was where the greatest need would be. But I came to realise there are very few people who have London compliance, risk and governance experience offering a flexible support service. So, my business now focuses on my greatest strengths – specialist knowledge, an eye for detail, and an ability to create order out of chaos!
I feel extremely privileged to work alongside some amazing clients
If it sounds like you need my help, please get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.
Tagged as: Hybrid Meeting Solution, Minute Taker, minuting taking support, UK Virtual Assistant, Virtual Assistant
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