In order to sponsor people in the UK, a company must designate an Authorising Officer (AO) (https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers/sponsorship...). I'm under the impression that this person is mostly a figurehead that signs off on things because the UK needs someone at the company to hold responsible, but that an immigration law firm handles pretty much everything immigration related as Key Contact and Level 1 User. What are your thoughts on how much it matters who the AO is? Eg must they be a manager?
Secondly, there's ambiguity about whether the AO has to be a UK citizen. After reading a good bit online and speaking with an immigration law firm, I don't think this is the case. Do you know?
Next, there are transparency concerns about designating someone as an AO. From what I understand, they would be able to see salaries of other people in the UK and some company financials (but nothing major that's not already shared with the UK and available on websites). Do you know what concerning info is shared with an AO?
Lastly, I know Brexit in theory complicates getting things setup to sponsor people in the UK, but should that prevent a company from working through the process over the past 12 months and for the upcoming 12 months? I doubt things are at a screeching hault at the UK "Home Office".
Any thoughts are appreciated, thanks!