Job Description

Cantor Fitzgerald Ireland Advisory Services provides advice to our clients on governance issues relating to the structure and activities of their organisations. Our long experience of working with Charities, Trusts, Foundations, Not-For-Profit Organisations and Religious Orders has given us a finely-tuned awareness of their requirements. Always taking a perspective in keeping with our client's ethos, the team offers practical advice and innovative solutions to a growing group of clients.

Responsibilities

The Governance Advisory Associate will play a key role in supporting a diverse portfolio of charity and not-for-profit clients, ensuring they meet their legal, regulatory and governance obligations in Ireland and, where relevant, internationally. Responsibilities include:

• Formation, registration and ongoing administration of charities and not-for-profit entities in Ireland and other jurisdictions.
• Drafting, reviewing and updating governing instruments to ensure compliance with the Charities Acts 2009 and 2024, Companies Act 2014, and sector best practice.
• Advising on company law and charity law, including governance, reporting, and regulatory obligations to the Charities Regulator, Revenue Commissioners, and other oversight bodies.
• Supporting the oversight and monitoring of client organisations to ensure adherence to the Charities Governance Code and other regulatory frameworks.
• Providing governance and compliance advice and training to charity trustees including duties, responsibilities, conflicts of interest, and risk management.
• Acting on behalf of the corporate Company Secretary, including:
  • Coordinating and scheduling Board and committee meetings
  • Liaising with stakeholders and contributors
  • Preparing and circulating Board packs
  • Attending meetings, drafting minutes, and tracking action items
• Conducting legal and regulatory research and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of developments in charity law, governance standards, and sector trends.
• Drafting and maintaining policy documentation, including governance, compliance, and operational policies.
• Preparing best-practice guidance notes for internal and external audiences on emerging issues affecting the charity and not-for-profit sector.
• Supporting project-based and ad hoc legal work as required across the Governance Advisory function.

Qualifications

Essential

• Qualified solicitor with relevant post-qualification experience.
• Full clean driving licence and access to a car.
• Flexible approach to client needs, including occasional attendance at meetings outside standard business hours.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise and manage multiple deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong general IT literacy.

Desirable

• Experience working within the charity or not-for-profit sector.
• Experience in corporate governance, particularly in a regulated environment.
• Experience in regulatory or compliance roles, ideally involving oversight or advisory functions.