THE COMPANY & ITS STRUCTURE

THE COMPANY & ITS STRUCTURE

In 2000, the Company of Water Conservators was granted Livery and became the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators.   It was incorporated by Royal Charter in 2005.   The Constitution and Ordinances describe the purpose and organisation of the Company, and Standing Orders set out in detail how the Company is to be administered.

The Company promotes the development and advancement of the science, art and practice of water conservation and environmental management and various scientific and management subjects related thereto.

As with other Livery Companies, the strategic direction of the Company and resolution  issues lies with its Court, comprising Master, Wardens, Past Masters and Court Assistants.  The Master is supported by three Wardens named (in order of seniority) after London’s rivers: the Thames, Fleet and Walbrook.   The Master and Wardens are elected annually by the Court of Assistants. 

Membership to the Court is by election from the Company’s Liverymen – drawn from of practitioners in water, waste and environment industries.  Court Assistants also bring a wide range of skills and experience to the management and direction of the Company. 

The Company has one main committee – the Finance, Membership and General Purposes Committee which reports to the Court.   Other matters are dealt with by ad hoc committees reporting to the Committee or the Court.

The Company’s Chief Executive has the title of Clerk, the Clerk deals not only with the day to day administration of the Company but also provides continuity and expert advice on Livery Company procedures and City traditions.

The Company has a number of officers to assist with its day to day responsibilities, including an Honorary Chaplain/ Almoner to attend to the spiritual and welfare needs of the Company and its members, a Beadle to preserve order, and a Bargemaster, to attend to the Company’s cutter, the Water Forget-me-not

The Company has honoured certain individuals as  Honorary Freemen and Liverymen who have performed meritorious services for the Company. 

The Company’s Patron Saint is St. Christopher, adopted in 2008 following consultation with the Chaplain, and within the Company, reflecting his strong connection with rivers and waterways. 

The  Company has a vigorous and demanding Past Masters Committee which maintains a watchful eye over Company developments.