Make the appointments clear
CRO confirms that an LTD with one director must have a separate secretary. Write the proposed appointments on the formation instruction sheet and confirm that each person understands the role they are accepting. Do not list the same individual in both positions for a single-director arrangement merely because they are the sole founder.
Discuss the actual work
Agree how the secretary will receive company information, track filing tasks and obtain signatures when needed. A name on a form is not a working administration process. If an external service will provide support, ask what tasks it undertakes, what it needs from the director and what happens when information arrives late or remains incomplete.
Create a simple handover
For example, a founder acting as director can keep a shared task calendar with the person coordinating secretarial work. The calendar can show the next return, the person preparing it and the review date before submission. This is an organisational suggestion, not a replacement for either officer’s responsibilities or advice about the appointment.
Plan for changes and absence
Record a reliable contact method and a backup operational contact for periods of absence. If the secretary will change, discuss the required appointment and filing steps before the outgoing arrangement ends. Keep appointment confirmations, service scope and company records accessible to authorised people so a new person can understand what has already been done.
Your practical checklist
- Identify a separate secretary before filing
- Confirm consent and understanding of the role
- Agree who prepares, reviews and submits filings
- Keep company information available to authorised officers
- Plan the handover if the appointment changes
Sources and editorial notes
Official guidance and any referenced service information checked 11 October 2026. These are original preparation notes with illustrative examples; they do not replace individual legal or tax advice.
Author and publisher: Ireland Company Formation, operated by COMMERCIAL ADMINISTRATION BUREAU LIMITED. For a correction or question, contact the team.
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