Removing a director from a company’s board involves officially ending their tenure as a board member. This process must be handled carefully to ensure compliance with legal requirements and company policies.
Legal Grounds: Directors can be removed for reasons such as non-performance, breach of duties, or other grounds specified in the company’s articles of association or by the Companies Act.
Board Approval: Typically, the removal of a director requires approval from the board of directors and, in some cases, the shareholders.
Regulatory Filing: The removal of a director must be reported to the Registrar of Companies (ROC) through specific forms.
Board Resolution:
A copy of the board resolution approving the removal of the director.
Shareholder Resolution (if applicable):
Resolution passed by shareholders in a general meeting if required by the company’s articles of association.
Notice of Removal:
Formal notice sent to the director being removed.
Updated Forms:
Form DIR-12 for filing with the ROC.
Board Meeting:
Convene a board meeting to discuss the removal of the director.
Pass a resolution to remove the director from the board.
Shareholder Approval:
If required by the company’s articles of association or the Companies Act, call a general meeting of shareholders to pass a resolution for the removal of the director.
Provide notice to all shareholders about the meeting and the resolution.
Submit Forms to ROC:
File Form DIR-12 with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) to notify the removal of the director.
This form must be filed within 30 days of the board resolution or shareholders’ resolution.
Update Statutory Registers:
Update the company’s statutory registers, including the register of directors, to reflect the removal of the director.
Communicate with the Director:
Send a formal letter to the removed director informing them of their removal and outlining any final steps or responsibilities.
Notify Stock Exchanges (if applicable):
If the company is listed, inform the relevant stock exchanges about the director’s removal.
Improved Board Functionality: Removing a non-performing or problematic director can enhance board dynamics and decision-making.
Compliance: Proper removal procedures ensure that the company complies with legal and regulatory requirements, avoiding potential disputes or penalties.
Organizational Efficiency: Streamlining the board by removing directors who no longer contribute effectively can lead to more efficient governance.
Administrative Effort: The process involves administrative tasks, including documentation and compliance, which can be time-consuming.
Potential Conflict: Removing a director may lead to internal conflicts or disputes, especially if the director disagrees with the decision.
Legal Risks: Improper removal procedures or failure to follow legal requirements can result in legal challenges or penalties.
Impact on Morale: The removal of a director may affect the morale of other board members and employees, especially if not handled sensitively.