Philip Woodhouse steps into one of the Square Mile’s oldest ceremonial roles
Elected Members of the City of London Corporation have chosen Philip Woodhouse as the next Chief Commoner, stepping into one of the Square Mile’s most historic civic positions.
The role, which dates back to 1444, combines ambassadorial duties with the responsibility of upholding the rights and standards of elected Members. Mr Woodhouse will formally take up his one-year term in the spring, succeeding Henry Pollard.
“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,” Mr Woodhouse said. “I will strive for greater and more effective collaboration between the City Corporation and the Square Mile’s businesses, residents, visitors and Livery companies.”
A career built in the City
Philip Woodhouse began his working life in the Square Mile as a messenger boy at the age of 14 before entering the commodities trade in cocoa, coffee and sugar. He went on to work at ED&F Man Commodities and Tate & Lyle before re-establishing his family’s business, which dates back to 1750.
First elected to the Court of Common Council in 2013, he currently chairs the City Corporation’s Markets Board. He has previously chaired both the Epping Forest and Commons Committee and the board of governors at City of London Freemen’s School.
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Beyond his civic duties, Mr Woodhouse is a liveryman and Past Master of The Worshipful Company of Grocers, and chairs the Kent-based Wellesley House and St Peter Court School Education Trust.
An enduring civic tradition
The Chief Commoner’s role stretches back more than five centuries, reflecting the Square Mile’s deep-rooted civic identity and its network of historic livery companies and institutions.
With this appointment, Mr Woodhouse joins a long line of figures who have represented the City Corporation at major events and ceremonial occasions, a role that continues to hold symbolic weight in the modern financial centre.
For more information about the Chief Commoner’s duties, visit the City of London Corporation website.
For more features exploring City of London’s history and civic traditions, follow EyeOnLondon City for insightful storytelling you can trust.
[Image Credit | City of London Corporation]
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