News & Views

I'm deeply grateful and honored to serve as the newly elected Alderman for the Ward of Cheap, appreciating your trust and support. Over the past six years, I've navigated changes globally, serving our community through initiatives like the Ward of Cheap Business Breakfasts and representing impactful investments. I'm humbled by the support shown in my re-election and am committed to serving the Ward and the City to the best of my abilities. Thank you for this opportunity, and I eagerly anticipate continuing our work together.

My Lord Mayor, Deputy, voters, and friends, 

I stand before you today with a sense of gratitude and excitement from being a candidate in the election of Alderman for the Ward of Cheap and now as the newly elected Alderman. It is an honour to have your trust and support in continuing to serve this vibrant community. 

I started work just off Cheapside next to St Mary le Bow; when I joined the Haberdashers' Company, the Hall was located down the road off Gresham Street. I have dealings with businesses in the Ward, and of course, I will shortly be moving into 30 Gresham Street in the heart of the Ward and the City. I stand ready to continue working for the Ward and the City. 

Reflecting on the journey over the past six years, I am reminded of the contested Aldermanic election held nearly six years ago, where I stood alongside six other candidates. It is amazing to reflect on how much has changed over that time in the City, the UK and globally. Markets have risen, fallen and bounced. We've navigated the pandemic, adopted hybrid working, mourned the loss of the late Queen and celebrated the accession of King Charles III. 

In the midst of that, I have sought to serve each of those contexts, and let me give you brief examples; here in the Ward, my Common Councillor colleagues and I have answered and responded to many questions and enquiries from local voters, workers and residents. In addition, I re-introduced the Ward of Cheap Business Breakfasts that take place two or three times a year, building community alongside the Ward of Cheap Club and the Cheapside Business Alliance.  

I am the Corporation's nominated Board member of the Impact Investing Institute, which leads the way in the important work of promoting impact investments that are made to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. With a global perspective, I was delighted to be able to bring in the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute, representing some $6trn for its first-ever global summit into Guildhall last year, an event which is due to be repeated this year. 

As I sought re-election, I aimed to build on the foundations laid down over the last six years. The fact that no one stood against me in this election is not taken for granted. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my colleagues, friends, and, most importantly, the voters of the Ward of Cheap. 

I extend my deepest thanks to the Lord Mayor for presiding over this Ward Mote and my Deputy and Common Councillor colleagues for their continuous support. We are a strong and united team, and thank you, Alastair, for your generous words. The Corporation's officers, particularly Alice and the Electoral Services office, for their efficiency and helpfulness in this electoral process. 

To the voters from across the Ward, those who are present today and those who have supported me over the last six years, I appreciate your trust and encouragement. The Ward of Cheap Club has been a strong and supportive community, and I am honoured to see the President here today. 

A special thank you to Fr. James and St. Lawrence Jewry for providing not only spiritual guidance but also the venue for today's Mote. And last but by no means least, thank you to my wife. I am delighted that my wife, Elspeth, a former City corporate lawyer, has been with me every step of the way. I know she is very committed to supporting me in the role of Alderman, for which I am truly grateful. 

As I stand before you today, as the newly elected Alderman, I am acutely aware of the responsibilities ahead. The Alderman's role involves providing leadership to the Ward team and the wider City, encompassing financial, legal, and other professional services, SMEs, and the Livery. The Court of Aldermen is also the pool of candidates from which the Lord Mayor is selected. I am committed to building on my unique experiences for the good of the Ward and the City, and I stand ready to serve in high office if or when called upon. 

Thank you all for this tremendous opportunity, and I look forward to continuing the work we have started together.