If you are or have been a corporate secretary or other governance professional with corporate secretary-related responsibilities, this inspirational speech: "My Life as a Corporate Secretary," presented by Time Warner SVP, Deputy GC & Corporate Secretary Paul Washington at the recent Society Essentials seminar, will have you nodding your head in understanding and agreement, smiling, chuckling, and feeling inspired and re-energized (if not heroic) about what you do in the ordinary-course performance of this critical - and increasingly acknowledged and appreciated - role.
Paul is masterful at capturing the upsides and potential downsides - as well as identifying opportunities to accentuate the positives and minimize the negatives - of a role that has evolved significantly for the better over the past few decades in concert with corporate governance increasingly dominating the headlines. While not a role for the faint of heart or anyone seeking rock star status, Paul makes clear that the less conspicuous riches inherent in the role are indeed worthwhile and priceless.