Agenda item

Resolution on retirement:

Resolved unanimously – That on the occasion of his retirement from the City of London Corporation, this Court takes the greatest possible pleasure in conveying to Chris Bilsland its sincere appreciation of his valuable service to the Corporation and to this Court during the past seven years as the City of London Corporation’s 79th Chamberlain in a successive line dating back to 1237. 

Chris has been an exemplary Chamberlain, strengthening the organisation’s internal governance functions, overseeing new and wide-ranging investment activities and championing business transformation.  Beyond the City Corporation, Chris has demonstrated his very real commitment to public sector finance through his CIPFA Presidency in 2011/12, his recent advisory role to the Government on proposals for a Common Investment Vehicle for the London Government Pension Scheme; and his recent award from the Local Government Chronicle as Finance Officer of the year. 

The ancient office of The Chamberlain of London retains important ceremonial responsibilities; including administering the creation of Freemen of the City of London and Chris’s expertise therefore extends far beyond financial matters.  He is an expert in ceremonial proceedings, performing such duties with great confidence and conviction, as demonstrated when the first Honorary Freedom in more than 10 years was awarded to Archbishop Desmond Tutu in November 2013.

Members have valued and benefited from his integrity, professionalism and sound advice on a variety of issues.  Chris’s knowledge of the City Corporation and of this Court, much like his knowledge of all matters financial, is significant and his wisdom and familiarity will be missed.

The Members very much welcome this opportunity to pay a personal and sincere tribute to Chris for his contribution to the work of this Court and for the extremely capable way in which he has carried out the role of The Chamberlain of London over the past seven years.  They warmly express the hope that he will enjoy a long and happy retirement with many happy memories of his time spent with the City of London Corporation.