I have a PhD from City, University of London using Systems Methodologies to explore value systems in performance measurement. I am fascinated by synergy and emergent properties and enjoy the unexpected. I retired from teaching at City and the Open University a few years back to become a Clerk. However, I still use systems thinking tools in my work life to understand complex situations, communicate with others and clarify purpose when things get confusing. When not analyzing problems or coming up with cunning plans I like to paint using acrylics, study genealogy, keep in touch with my Polish roots and do wine tastings. I have a level 3 WSET Award in Wines and level 2 in wine service.
This is a new role for the Company and Mike will be working four days a week. This reflects the amount of time the Clerks Office spends on charity related activities such as coo-ordinating Apprentices and Apprentice Masters, managing appeals for funds, liaising with partners and those receiving funds, organising charity supported events plus secretary duties for the Education Committee and Charitable Trust.
Mike Devine joins us after a long career in the British Army, born in Rotherham South Yorkshire he joined the Army in 2001 and spent his early service with The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery before moving on to the Adjutant Generals Corps.
He has spent time deployed on operational tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and South Sudan as well as undertaking staff work at the Ministry of Defence and Permanent Joint Headquarters.
Mike enjoys horse riding, shooting and whisky. He is also the Chief Clerk to the Light Cavalry of the Honourable Artillery Company.
Having trained to become a professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies during 2005 a colleague suggested that I might apply to become a Beadle.
And so, December 2005 saw me appointed Beadle for the Worshipful Company of Constructors’ and the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers’ and thus my introduction to the Livery. As my experience grew other Companies approached me to act as their Beadle or engaged to be the Toastmaster at their major functions.
My role as a Toastmaster is varied, attending Weddings, of all faiths, Banquets, Christmas events, Charity Dinners and other functions. On occasion, I have acted as the Auctioneer at Charity Events - which is always exciting!
Working at fabulous venues, the Mansion House, Guildhall, magnificent Livery Hall as well as many major London Hotels including the Grosvenor House, Hilton Park Lane, Inn on the Park and the Four Seasons.
Amateur Dramatics played a very important part of my early life covering performance, stage management and directing. As my principle career developed I was unable to devote time to this wonderful hobby.
The skills I learned and developed the stand me in good stead now as a Toastmaster and Beadle ensuring that functions run as expected. Liaison, communicating with all those involved in an event is critical to its success.
I love City life and being involved with the Livery. The formalities and traditions are core and long may they continue. Meeting many exceptional people has been a privilege.