In Hong Kong, a company secretary must fulfill the following criteria:

• Residency Requirement: The individual must be a resident of Hong Kong or a company based in Hong Kong.
• Governance Competence: They must demonstrate proficiency in corporate governance and compliance matters.
• Additional Credentials for Listed Companies: For companies listed on the stock exchange, additional qualifications or professional affiliations may be necessary.

Outsourcing these services ensures adherence to changing regulatory requirements while conserving time and resources. Professional service providers contribute specialized knowledge, optimize processes, and minimize the risk of penalties for non-compliance. This approach is economically viable for businesses of all sizes, particularly beneficial for new ventures and smaller enterprises.

When selecting a company secretary, evaluate the following factors:

• Expertise in Hong Kong Governance: Look for extensive experience and expertise in Hong Kong's corporate governance framework.
• Timely and Professional Service Delivery: Ensure they can provide prompt and professional services.
• Clear Pricing Structure: Opt for transparent pricing without any hidden charges.
• Digital Accessibility: Consider their ability to offer online access for efficient document management.

No, in Hong Kong, a company with a single director cannot have that same individual serve as the company secretary. However, in companies with multiple directors, one of the directors can also assume the role of secretary.