A qualified CS has access to openings both in the private sector and in the public sector, financial institutions, stock exchanges and the central and state governments. As per Sec 383 A of the Companies Act 1956, companies with a paid-up share capital of Rs 50 lakh or more must have a whole-time company secretary. In case of a company with a paid up capital of less than Rs 50 lakh, a CS with an Intermediate Pass is also eligible for appointment. All companies seeking a listing on stock exchanges are required to have a full-time CS.

Company secretary has a great scope of employment in Private companies, consulting firms, financial institutions, banks, Department of company affairs and other regulatory bodies. A qualified company secretary is competent enough to take up wide range of responsibilities in legal, secretarial, finance, accounts, personnel and administrative departments of companies and are involved in major decisions such as formulating long and short term corporate policies and programmes. Their other responsibilities include incorporation, managing public issues, act as internal legal advisor and representative, process inter-corporate loans and investments, maintain company's records, take care of company's tax planning, tax management, tax returns, explore expansion opportunities, arrange collaborations, amalgamations, joint ventures within and outside India etc.Nowadays, they are even foraying in capital markets and financial services industry. Their assistance in administration, management, planning and general running of the company makes them the company's chief administrator.

To become a company secretary, the candidate need to pass the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final course conducted by the institute and further, they need to undergo practical training to become eligible for the membership as a Company Secretary.

Company Secretaries command high salaries, as compared to other managerial staff. The remuneration and conditions of service depend on the qualification and experience. Some of the average monthly earnings ranges are Pre qualifications Junior Secretarial Office-Rs. 8000 plus per month, Deputy Company Secretary Rs. 12000 plus per month, Company Secretary Rs. 15000 plus. Financial Controller Rs. 25000 plus per month.

But as you have said that you have done your Hotel management and Master's in Political Science, you have to see if you have required aptitude or interest in this commerce related field or not. If you really want to do it, you have to complete this course and move further.

All the best
CareerAge Counselor.