UK Corporate Governance Code:
What Boards Need to Get Right Now
UK Corporate Governance Code
The UK Corporate Governance Code sets the benchmark for how UK-listed companies are directed and controlled. It shapes board accountability, risk oversight, executive pay, and long-term value creation.The 2024 revision tightens expectations.
Boards must now explain outcomes, not just governance processes.
From 2026, they must formally declare whether material internal controls are effective.Leadership teams that treat the Code as a live operating framework are better prepared for scrutiny from investors, regulators, and auditors.
Challenge
Translating the UK Corporate Governance Code into day-to-day practice
Demonstrating outcomes rather than describing processes
Meeting higher expectations on internal controls and assurance
Producing clear, consistent, and defensible reporting
Solution
Embedding the UK Corporate Governance Code into operating reality
Shifting reporting from description to evidence
Building a robust internal control and assurance framework
Creating consistency across governance, risk, and reporting
Results
Stronger application of the UK Corporate Governance Code in practice
More credible and outcome-focused reporting
Increased board confidence and reduced governance risk
Stronger trust with investors and regulators
- The UK Corporate Governance Code applies to companies with a premium listing on the London Stock Exchange and operates on a comply or explain basis.
- The Code is built around five core areas: board leadership and purpose, division of responsibilities, board composition, audit and risk, and remuneration.
- The latest revision was published in January 2024 and strengthens the focus on reporting outcomes rather than describing processes.
- A new requirement, Provision 29, obliges boards to make an annual declaration on the effectiveness of material internal controls from accounting periods starting in 2026.
- The Code expects boards to demonstrate how governance supports long-term sustainable success, accountability, and trust with shareholders and wider stakeholders.
Strategic advisory call
You get a focused 60-minute session with a senior GAA advisor to review how the UK Corporate Governance Code is applied in your organisation.
You identify gaps between governance policy, board oversight, and day-to-day practice.
You leave with three clear priorities to strengthen decision-making, accountability, and reporting.
10-day governance diagnostic
You receive a structured review of how your board, committees, and management teams operate against the UK Corporate Governance Code.
The assessment covers internal controls, risk oversight, culture, remuneration, and disclosures.
You get a concise 6-page memo with practical recommendations your board can implement immediately.
Meet our expert team of advisors
Work with seasoned advisors who’ve led change at the highest levels. Each member of the Global Advisory Alliance brings real-world experience and practical insight - giving you direct access to the expertise you need, without the layers you don’t.
Access board-level governance and sustainability expertise
Through the Global Advisory Alliance, you gain direct access to senior, independent advisors with deep institutional experience in governance, sustainable finance, and transformation. GAA brings together a global network of board-level professionals who combine strategic insight with hands-on execution across regions and sectors. You benefit from coordinated expertise that helps translate global standards into practical governance, investment, and reporting frameworks that work in the real world.
