Tony McElroy: Three things I’ve learned since becoming Lord Dean of Guild
Just over a month has passed since I had the great privilege of becoming the 230th Lord Dean of Guild. And before you ask one of the two most common questions I’ve had: YES I am the youngest ever, or certainly in recent memory; and NO, I don’t get to keep the chain of office…
I’ve always had an understanding that to serve as Lord Dean means you are the custodian of something special. However only fulfilling the duties have I truly come to appreciate just how important a part of the fabric of our city the Merchants House really is. We are a significant charity, a civic partner, a place for those of commerce and a proud champion for Glasgow.
Welcoming people from across the globe to Glasgow; highlighting and celebrating our fantastic charitable sector; our medical and technology communities; and saying Thank You to the men and women of the Armed Forces who serve in our name, are just some of the privileges I’ve had.
Glasgow is a city proud of its past, energised by its present, and with an inspiring future, it’s got a great story to shout about.
New Lord Dean of Guild Tony McElroy
Lord Deans will come and go, but Glasgow and the Merchants House will endure. As part of that constant evolution, I thought it might be helpful to share some early observations:
Tradition Is a Living Thing: People are blown away by Glasgow’s history. Our ability to leverage this to shape our future, to put our city on the map, to open the door in a discussion on how we write Glasgow’s next chapter, should never be underestimated.
Diversity is our secret superpower: Glasgow is a rich tapestry created by the accumulation of individuals, of stories and communities, histories and futures. We should cherish this diversity, take pride in it, and recognise it gives us strength as community leaders, as citizens as custodians of our city’s future.
Partnership makes progress: The Merchants House is built on three pillars. Our innovative business community, our world class charitable sector, our unique civic responsibilities. When these work in tandem, our business community flourishes, our charitable sector flourishes and Glasgow flourishes.
Attending the Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse earlier this month
Representing the Merchants House at Armed Forces Day
Proudly, Glasgow has been 850 years in the making, as if we need an excuse for a celebration. However from those I have been honoured to meet from across our city, from community workers, volunteers, business representatives, sailors, soldiers, airmen and many more, I cannot help but be excited for the next 850 years.
If you are interested in learning more about the Merchants House, the Lord Dean and our work across the West of Scotland, please do look out for our regular events. You may even want to consider joining us or making a donation to help secure our future.
