5 Minutes With… Nishanthi Soundarajan
Nishanthi Soundarajan understands why many people don’t know what a Corporate Secretary does – she hadn't heard of the role until she fell into it 13 years ago.
Now she’s an expert in company incorporation and corporate filing obligations and we’re lucky to have her heading up the Corporate Secretary division here at Accela. We got to sit down with her for five minutes this week – this is what we found out.
How would you describe what you do to your grandmother?
I help people set up companies and legally register them with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). I also maintain all required filing obligations with ACRA and assist clients to prepare documents in relation to these matters. People hire us so they can have peace of mind focusing on their business while we ensure their company remains compliant.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Usually we have new inquiries from people looking to set up companies, or who want to transfer from other corporate secretary service providers. On any given day you could also see me opening bank accounts, filing resolutions or anything related to a change of directors and shareholders, or filing annual returns.
Did you always know you wanted to be a corporate secretary?
No, because it’s not a role many people know much about. Most people think I’m a personal secretary. I found my way into corporate secretary work by accident, but I grew to love it, and now I’ve been in this field for 13 years.
What would you say truly differentiates Accela from the many competitive choices of corporate secretary services that exist today?
Accela is future-ready. By going paperless many years ago, Accela was ready for the pandemic and easily fits into the new realities of this COVID-world. Everyone appreciates that we use the latest technology to make everything we do more efficient – for example, clients are so excited they don’t need their physical signatures on documents and can use Hello Sign instead. Everyone appreciates it.
What do you think the future of corporate secretary work will look like?
Even though you can set up your company yourself through ACRA, there are lots of boxes to tick, and if you’re busy growing your business, you don’t want to lose it all just because you missed something. A corporate secretary keeps on top of all the paperwork and regulations for you. Startups continue to launch, and many of them need a corporate secretary for guidance, so I think there’s a bright future for us.
What was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I majored in IT at university and after graduating I was working for the Ministry of Defence. I was posted to Sembawang camp, working at the IT lab. I much prefer what I do now!
Do you have any “hidden talents”?
I’m good at organising activities and gatherings with my family and friends. Quite a few people have said the outcome is nice, and I love doing it – it keeps me happy.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I would love to be an events planner or events coordinator.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
Reading books, or spending time with my family. I love exploring Singapore with my kids, and making memories with them.
Have you read any great books lately?
Something Borrowed, a novel by Emily Giffin. It’s also a movie.
If you could invite anyone (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be?
Michelle Obama. I love her! She supports women, and whatever she says is good advice. And she is also so down-to-earth and humble.
What’s on your bucket list of things to do in the world?
I’ve always wanted to try skydiving. My sister did it in New Zealand and it looked incredible. I haven’t gathered my courage yet, but it’s something I want to do before I die.