Member Story: Tina Rosenow

From social work to governance

After qualifying as a social worker, I initially worked in statutory social work before deciding to move into frontline roles in charities. It was during this transition that I first started to learn about governance. Moving into the charity sector helped me really understand the role of the board and how decisions relating to a charity are made.

I completed the Level 4 Charity Law and Governance qualification with CGI in 2018-2019. For some time, I debated whether the path to qualifying as a Chartered Company Secretary was right for me. I decided to test the waters by completing the Advanced Corporate Governance Case qualification, to see whether I could pass an exam at the level required by the qualifying scheme.

Broadening my understanding of governance

My understanding of governance, and corporate governance in particular, is now so much broader. I’ve spent the last nine years working in charity and non‑for‑profit governance‑related roles, so it was great to have the opportunity to learn something new and develop a really thorough understanding of the UK Corporate Governance Code.

A massive shout‑out goes to my tuition provider, Kensington College of Business, for bringing corporate governance to life. I genuinely looked forward to each study session.

Balancing study, work and caring responsibilities

Studying is never easy, but working full time while also having caring responsibilities makes it even more challenging. Once I decide to do something, I am quite determined to make it work and to do it to the best of my abilities.Managing my time effectively was my main priority. I developed a study schedule and stuck to it for the most part, which allowed me to balance the different aspects of my life.

Overcoming concerns about committing to study

Reflecting back, I realised I had created a lot of anxiety around the idea of balancing everything - working full time, trustee responsibilities, helping to care for my father and studying. In reality, it was nowhere near as difficult as I had thought it would be. My only fixed commitment was dialling into my weekly study session, which I liked to attend live, although there was flexibility to catch up in my own time. Everything else could be worked around my life and commitments.

It’s still very early days, but studying for and passing the qualification has done wonders for my self‑esteem, which feels like a big win in itself. I am now also considering whether I might start the qualifying scheme, as I believe I could do it.

Advice for others considering the qualification

If you’re passionate about governance and want to do the qualification, go for it. There’s never a right time to do anything in life, and you will always find a way to overcome any obstacles that come your way.