Christina Parry, postgraduate student, MA Mediterranean Studies, Faculty of Arts, was the keynote speaker at a prestigious celebration on 23 January 2024 to mark the election of the first female Master of a London Livery Company. Only forty years ago, Sylvia Tutt became Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, breaking the historic glass ceiling in the City. The appointment ended the 900 year domination of the City’s civic governance by male office holders.
Before over 100 invited guests in the iconic London Livery Hall of the Drapers’ Company, Christina Parry recounted her predecessor’s eminent professional record as a Chartered Secretary. The focus then shifted to look at Sylvia Tutt the woman, her achievements and her character. Like all eminent people, Sylvia Tutt was a multi-faceted and talented individual. She was determined to show that a woman could enjoy life, deliver competently in a senior business role, handle complex leadership duties and enhance civic life. Christina’s recent research into Sylvia Tutt’s life revealed a someone who appreciated the big occasion, enjoyed celebrity and made her mark on civic life. For the audience, looking behind the public face to the woman inside proved a novel and highly appreciated approach.
Previously, as Master of the Livery Company herself in 2018, Christina Parry had the honour of presenting Malta’s President Dr George Vella with greetings from the Lord Mayor of London, a history of the Knights of Malta, and a history of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators.
