Society of Genealogists appoints new Chief Executive

The English based Society of Genealogists (www.sog.org.uk) has appointed a new Chief Executive - here's the announcement:

The Society of Genealogists has appointed Philip Spedding as its new Chief Executive.

Philip joins the Society from the Royal Albert Hall, having previously been Director of Development at The London Library and also Executive Director at Arts & Business for 16 years.

Philip joins the Society from the Royal Albert Hall, having previously been Director of Development at The London Library and also Executive Director at Arts & Business for 16 years. He will take up the role on 1st July 2024.

He brings an impressive portfolio of knowledge and experience from his career of over 25 years in the creative and cultural sectors, including senior responsibility for strategy and business development, individual giving programmes, fundraising and external development plans at organisations as diverse as Tate, The British Library and The Charities Aid Foundation. Philip holds a Bachelor of Commerce (specialising in Finance) from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver.

Philip said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Society of Genealogists, especially at such an exciting time in a splendid new home. It is a real privilege to be taking up this role and to be entrusted with steering the Society in a new chapter of its illustrious history. I know from personal experience how researching a family history is a deeply satisfying way of finding out more about ourselves and our personal history. The Society of Genealogists occupies a unique place in genealogy and invaluably aids this journey for members in the UK and across the world, myself included. I am looking forward to meeting my colleagues, volunteers and members, all of whom continue to play a key part in our enduring success.”

With a membership packed with educational benefits, and a Research Hub housing a unique archive and library of family history records and resources, the Society of Genealogists, which was founded in 1911, remains dedicated to its unique mission to help people discover their heritage, no matter what their background or level of expertise.

Graham Walter, Chair of the Society of Genealogists, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Philip into this role at such an exciting time for the Society of Genealogists. We have just completed our move to a marvellous new headquarters and library in London N1 and carried out a significant upgrade of our membership services and digital infrastructure. Philip brings significant experience as a proven senior executive and leader in the voluntary sector and a real passion for the Society and its mission”.

Graham added: “We are very grateful to our Interim Co-CEO’s, Natalie Pithers and Rebecca Gregory, who remain valued members of the Society’s team of passionate employees.”

Natalie and Rebecca commented: “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our time as Interim Co-CEO’s, especially the successful launch of Gold Membership. We’re so proud of the new gold video library of talks and have been delighted by member feedback.”

(With thanks to the SOG via email)

Chris

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