WHO WE ARE
Drawn from those with a long family history of connection with the Company, from our recent school alumni, and across a wide range of dynamic industries and professions, there is huge strength in our diversity.
Haberdashers are people who are looking for a way to use their personal skills, time and resources to give back to the wider community.
They are dedicated to making a difference and see the Company as a framework to give back in a multitude of ways. This modern philanthropy is the thread that runs through the heart of the Company, connecting our proud heritage with our present actions, and ensuring we pass on a resilient organisation in the future.
Underpinned by these shared values, we achieve our purpose through taking a whole community approach to the way we listen, work with and support our schools, our churches and our charity partners across the UK.
The Company is governed by a Court of Assistants, presided over by an annually elected Master and four Wardens. The Court consists of 35 Assistants. Similar to a board of directors, it determines the overall strategy of the Haberdashers’ Company and oversees the progress of our business and work.
The Court of Assistants is supported by a Court of Wardens and several committees covering investments, finance, charities, membership and more. All our committee members are volunteers drawn from among our membership.
The Company’s Clerk, rather like a Chief Executive, leads a senior management team and a staff of around 15.
The Master and four Wardens (rather like a Chair and Trustees) are democratically elected from the Court and serve for one year from November to November.
In the year November 2024 – November 2025, the Court of Wardens are:
Haberdashers have always believed in leaving the world in a better place, playing a fundamental role in our ability to deliver on our purpose of empowering young people from every background to fulfil their potential.
Our members see the Company as a framework for giving back in a multitude of ways. Their commitment—through their time, skill sharing, and financial support—enables us to add value to the communities we work with in England and Wales.
The Haberdashers’ Company isn’t just preserving a legacy; we’re actively shaping the world of tomorrow. By investing in the next generation, we empower them to successfully navigate their futures and achieve their potential.
If you think you might be interested in joining the Company, please contact us.
Being part of the Haberdashers’ Company also offers numerous benefits that can enhance both personal and professional growth:
Community: Being part of a organisation with shared values and goals fosters a sense of friendship and belonging.
Networking Opportunities: Members gain access to a broad network of fellow professionals in their field and beyond, facilitating connections that can lead to collaborations and career advancements.
Leadership Opportunities: Engaging with the organisation provides opportunities to take on leadership roles at our educational events, helping young people develop important life skills such as confidence, teamwork and leadership.
Giving Back: The Company runs a busy schedule and offers a multitude of opportunities for giving back, ranging from working alongside our charity partners on growth strategies, to supporting our live events and mentoring Sixth Formers.
Getting Involved: In addition to our voluntary opportunities, members have access to a range of events, from social sports teams, to lectures, school visits, to dinners.
Staying Informed: Members receive updates on Company news, as well as invitations to key events at Haberdashers’ Hall in the heart of the City of London.
Get involved
Gerry Williams
Haberdasher volunteer with charity partner No Going BackFolami Iyiola
Former Head Boy Haberdashers’ Hatcham College and Habs Aspire Mentor volunteerAlice Chen
Former Head Girl at Haberdashers' Hatcham College, LGB Governor at Haberdashers' Hatcham Primary and Treasurer for charity partner Lewisham Youth TheatreGet involved
You don’t need to be a member of the Company to support our work.
If you would like to explore this way of supporting the Company’s work, please contact us.
In the aftermaths of the First and Second World Wars, the desire of the companies to reassociate with the Armed Forces, to recognise their contribution to the country’s defence, reasserted itself.
The Company makes financial grants annually to all the affiliated units. The grants are spent at the discretion of the Commanding Officer of the unit, for the provision of welfare and benevolence for all ranks. Members of the units attend some events in the Hall, participate in sport with members of the Company, and will be included in the Habs Aspire mentoring programme in due course.