Direct answer
A UK private company must appoint at least one director; a company secretary is optional for a private company under the GOV.UK formation guidance.
What the official guidance says
GOV.UK explains that a company limited by shares needs at least one shareholder and that a director can also be a shareholder.
Shareholders and Ownership in UKUK incorporation requires companies to identify people with significant control, including relevant ownership or voting control information.
People With Significant Control (PSC) in UK
Source: GOV.UK / Companies House guidance, via our in-depth guides:
Directors, Owners & Governance checklist for UK
- Identify at least one eligible director.
- Decide whether a company secretary will be appointed.
- Complete identity verification requirements if prompted.
- Keep officer details current after incorporation.
- Identify the initial shareholder(s).
- Confirm share ownership information.
- Prepare the statement of capital where required.
- Keep ownership records consistent with the filed information.
- Identify individuals or entities that meet the PSC test.
- Gather the required PSC information.
- Confirm PSC information during registration.
- Keep the PSC register and filed details aligned.
Practical focus
Map directors, members, shareholders or other governance roles against the exact requirements published by the relevant authority.
Frequently asked questions
Which authority controls directors, owners & governance in UK?
GOV.UK / Companies House is the primary authority for the guidance on this page. Other authorities can be involved depending on your activity; re-check the official source before acting.