Protokollimist

Protokollimist is a person who records the proceedings of meetings and formal events by producing official minutes. The minutes provide a written summary of discussions, decisions, and assigned actions, and serve as an authoritative record for participants and, where appropriate, the public. The protokollist may work in legislatures, municipalities, corporate boards, courts, or other organizations, often as part of a secretariat or administrative staff, or as a designated stenographer or minutes writer.

Duties and responsibilities typically include attending meetings to capture attendees, agenda items, motions, votes, and key points; summarizing discussions in a concise, neutral tone; ensuring factual accuracy and consistency with organizational procedures; verifying information with participants when needed; and distributing or publishing the minutes while maintaining appropriate confidentiality and archival standards.

Skills and training commonly emphasized for protokollists include strong listening and note-taking abilities, clear and precise writing, and a solid understanding of the organization’s rules and parliamentary procedures. Impartiality and attention to detail are essential, as is proficiency with word processing and document management; in some contexts, shorthand, stenography, or audio transcription skills may be used. In certain jurisdictions, formal training or certification in minutes taking or public administration is encouraged or required.

Variations in terminology exist across languages and institutions. Roles with similar duties may be called secretary, secretary-clerk, protokollfører, or parliamentary clerk, depending on the country and organization.

See also: minutes, stenography, clerk, secretary, parliamentary procedure.