A Practical Guide
Are you interested in building a career in corporate governance? Whether you’re fresh out of university or looking to pivot your professional path, corporate governance offers an exciting opportunity to shape how organisations operate with integrity, accountability and strategic foresight.
In Ireland, the governance landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate complex regulatory environments, ethical challenges and board-level decision-making. Here’s what you need to know to get started — and how a master’s qualification can set you apart.
What Does a Corporate Governance Professional Do?
At its core, corporate governance is about ensuring companies and organisations are run responsibly and effectively. Governance professionals advise boards, manage compliance, oversee risk and embed best practices across legal, ethical and operational dimensions.
Typical duties may include:
- Advising on regulatory compliance and governance codes
- Supporting board meetings and minutes
- Managing risk frameworks and internal controls
- Liaising with auditors, regulators and stakeholders
- Helping drive corporate social responsibility and sustainability initiatives
How to Get Hired in Corporate Governance: Entry Roles in Ireland
If you’re starting out, some common entry points include:
- Governance analyst or officer: Assisting with compliance and reporting tasks
- Company secretary assistant: Supporting secretarial duties and board administration
- Risk and compliance associate: Managing governance risks and regulatory adherence
- Legal or regulatory advisor (junior level): Providing legal support within governance teams
Many governance professionals begin their careers in related areas such as law, accounting, risk management or compliance before specialising in corporate governance.
Salary Expectations: What Can You Earn?
Salaries for governance roles in Ireland vary depending on experience, sector and organisation size. Here’s a rough guide for entry-level to senior roles:
- Entry-level roles: €35,000–€50,000 per year
- Mid-level roles (3–7 years’ experience): €50,000–€80,000 per year
- Senior roles (7+ years’ experience, including company secretary or governance manager): €80,000–€120,000+ per year
Highly experienced professionals, particularly those working with multinational companies or in financial services, may earn even more.
Why a Master’s Degree Matters: Elevate Your Governance Career
In today’s competitive market, a master’s level qualification focused on corporate governance can be a game changer. It signals your commitment to mastering governance principles, regulatory frameworks and strategic leadership.
Benefits of a Master’s in Corporate Governance include:
- Deep knowledge: Gain expert understanding of Irish and international governance regulations and standards
- Practical skills: Learn how to support boards, manage risk and handle compliance challenges
- Professional recognition: Many programmes offer dual accreditation and pathways to chartered status with bodies such as the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland (CGIUKI)
- Networking: Connect with peers, industry leaders and potential employers through your course
- Career acceleration: Position yourself for senior governance roles and greater responsibility
The Hibernia College Master of Science in Corporate Governance
f you’re ready to take the next step, the Master of Science in Corporate Governance at Hibernia College is tailored for aspiring and current governance professionals in Ireland. Key features include:
- Dual accreditation and chartership with CGIUKI
- A blended learning format designed to fit around busy professional schedules
- Curriculum focused on Irish governance landscape, regulatory changes and emerging trends such as environmental, social and governance (ESG) and digital governance
- Support for career development and practical governance challenges
Applications for our next intake in September are now open, with limited spaces available.
Final Thoughts
Corporate governance is more than a job — it’s a vital function that shapes how organisations create value, build trust and contribute to society. Starting your governance career with the right education, practical experience and professional network can open doors to a rewarding and impactful journey.
If you want to lead with confidence in the evolving governance landscape of Ireland, consider how a master’s degree could unlock new opportunities for you.
