The Merchants House of Glasgow is delighted to introduce Tony McElroy as our new Lord Dean of Guild- the 230th, and perhaps youngest ever, person to hold this prestigious position.

Tony brings a dynamic mix of professional experience, personal passion, and deep civic pride to the role. Born in Greenock and raised in Fife, he returned to Glasgow for university and has always regarded the city as his home, even during periods working in London and elsewhere.

A career rooted in communities

Tony’s professional background is with Tesco, where he has worked for over 18 years in a variety of senior roles. What started as a short-term role evolved into a fulfilling career with a company that, as Tony puts it, “serves all communities in all parts of Glasgow and Scotland.”

He is particularly proud of the work done during the pandemic, when Tesco colleagues worked tirelessly to support vulnerable individuals at a time of national crisis. That experience, he says, cemented his commitment to grounded leadership and understanding the real needs of people and communities.

Championing the House’s mission

Tony takes on the role of Lord Dean with a clear vision: to continue the Merchants House’s vital charitable mission, increase the impact of its giving, and build wider awareness of its work across Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

“It’s a tremendous privilege to be Lord Dean,” he says. “But for me, it’s not about the title- it’s about what you can do with the role. It’s about playing a transformative, impactful part in helping the people and communities across Glasgow and the West.”

Today, the Merchants House is best known as a charity, distributing hundreds of thousands of pounds every year to a wide variety of local causes- from grassroots organisations supporting vulnerable individuals, to cultural institutions, youth services, and more. With demand for support at an all-time high, Tony is passionate about ensuring funds are targeted where they can make the greatest difference.

“We’re proud that we go after grassroots organisations- the ones where we know our funding will have a tangible, life-changing impact,” he explains. “But the demand is growing. The cost of living, pressure on public services, and economic uncertainty all mean that our role- and our responsibility- has never been more vital.”

Tony is equally enthusiastic about the civic and economic legacy of the House. Founded by the city’s merchants in the 1600s, the House continues to have a unique role in supporting Glasgow’s development, not only through its charitable giving but also by playing a civic role and providing a platform for celebrating and supporting the city’s success.

“There’s something really special about the Merchants House- that combination of economic heritage, civic leadership and charitable work,” Tony says. “The real privilege of serving as Lord Dean is that the position can play a really impactful and transformative role in helping communities across Glasgow and the west of Scotland, and elevating the recognition the city gets. That’s to be cherished.”

A living organisation, not a museum

Tony is keen to emphasise that the Merchants House “isn’t a museum. The Merchant’s House is a living, forward thinking organisation. 

“I want more people to know what we do- and why it matters,” he says. “Whether it’s celebrating Glasgow, supporting its communities, or creating a legacy of giving, the Merchants House is unique. If more people knew about the impact we make, I believe more people would support us- by becoming members, donors, or even leaving a legacy.”

The Merchants House is also a beautiful venue for hire- with all proceeds from events going directly to support its charitable work.

Looking Ahead

Tony is clear about his priorities for his tenure:

• Grow the House’s charitable giving to meet increasing demand.
• Expand awareness and understanding of the House’s work and impact.
• Reach new supporters and members who share a passion for Glasgow’s people and future.

He’s also excited about the opportunity to connect with those working at the heart of the city’s social fabric- from refugee organisations to food banks, to youth groups and community leaders.

“The role gives me the opportunity to say thank you to people who work tirelessly every day to support others. That’s incredibly humbling” he says.

Beyond the Chain…

Outside of his professional and civic life, Tony is a self-described “naturally curious person” with a wide range of interests. A passionate football fan, he also holds a black belt in karate- possibly a first for a Lord Dean- and loves Glasgow’s art, architecture, and food scene. He also has an interest in horology, and is fascinated by watches and timepieces.

When asked about his favourite story of Glasgow, Tony says there’s so many to choose from, but one that has always resonated with him is the renaming of St. George’s Place to Nelson Mandela Place in 1986. This symbolic act was a major statement against the apartheid regime, and for Tony “it really speaks to the power of our values as a city. I think it speaks to our community as a city. And I think it’s a really important symbol to the world of what Glasgow means and stands for. And I think that is something of which we can all be really, really proud.”

Get Involved

If you’d like to learn more about the work of the Merchants House, or to get involved as a supporter, donor, or event guest, we encourage you to explore our website and get in touch.