Elected Members in the City of London have chosen a new postholder for one of the Square Mile’s most historic roles.
Philip Woodhouse was elected by Members of the Court of Common Council, the City of London Corporation’s primary decision-making body, as its Chief Commoner.
In the role, which dates back to 1444, Mr Woodhouse will act as an ambassador at ceremonial occasions and work to uphold the rights and standards of City Corporation members.
Mr Woodhouse, who will replace current Chief Commoner Henry Pollard, will take up his duties in spring next year and serve a one-year term.
City of London Corporation Chief Commoner Elect, Philip Woodhouse, said:
“Having worked in the City for half a century, including 12 years as a Common Councillor, I’m looking forward to representing Members to the best of my ability with energy, humility and unity.
“I will strive for greater and more effective collaboration between the City Corporation and the Square Mile’s businesses, residents, visitors and Livery companies.
“I would like to thank Members for the faith they’ve put in me, and for giving me the opportunity to make a difference while upholding the traditions of the Court of Common Council.”
Mr Woodhouse has a long relationship with the Square Mile, having started work as a messenger boy at the age of 14, going on to work as a trader in cocoa, coffee and sugar at the Commodity Futures Exchange.
He later worked at ED&F Man Commodities and Tate & Lyle before re-establishing his family’s commodity business, which can trace its origins back to 1750.
First elected in 2013, he currently chairs the City Corporation’s Markets Board and has previously served as Chair of the Epping Forest and Commons Committee. He also previously chaired the board of governors of the City of London Freemen’s School.
A liveryman and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Grocers, outside the City he is also chair of the Kent-based Wellesley House and St Peter Court School Education Trust.
