Jonathan Church: New Master of The Worshipful Company of Cordwainers

The Worshipful Company of Cordwainers

The Worshipful Company of Cordwainers is a historic livery company that dates back more than 750 years. It was granted the right in 1272 to regulate the footwear trade within the City of London. Traditionally, Cordwainers were shoemakers who practiced their trade within the city’s walls. Livery companies, like the Cordwainers, were established to regulate trade practices, maintain quality standards, and offer mutual support.

Today, the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers is composed of members from various fields, but it remains focused on supporting footwear education and the shoe industry. The Company plays a significant role in civic life through its charitable activities and is renowned for its rich tradition of pageantry and historical significance. While its focus has expanded, the Company remains deeply connected to its origins in shoemaking, offering scholarships, grants, and other forms of support to those in the industry.

Cheaney’s Connection to the Cordwainers

Cheaney, a respected shoemaking company, is a financial supporter of the Annual Cordwainers Footwear Awards, which are given to the best students from key footwear design schools based on their portfolio submissions. This affiliation reflects Cheaney’s heritage in the shoemaking industry and its commitment to the craftsmanship and quality that the Cordwainers represent. Notably, Cheaney’s joint owners are both members of the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers.

Each summer, the Company elects a new Master and Wardens during the Oath Day ceremony, marking the beginning of the Master’s term. This year, Cheaney’s Managing Director, Jonathan Church, has been appointed as Master.

Path to Membership: Patrimony or Redemption

There are two main paths to joining the Cordwainers:

1. By Patrimony: If one or both of your parents were members of the livery company, you may be eligible to join upon reaching adulthood.
2. By Redemption: You can join by demonstrating a significant connection to the trade, craft, or profession, which can include working in the field, holding relevant qualifications, or being recognized for your skills.

Jonathan Church joined the Cordwainers by Redemption. His father was a member of  the Worshipful Company of Grocers, while his co-director William Church’s father was Master of the Cordwainers at the turn of the century. For Jonathan, joining the Cordwainers was particularly meaningful, as he has spent most of his career in the footwear industry.

Roles of the Master and Committees

The Master of the Cordwainers has specific targets and works as part of the governing board alongside the Wardens and the Clerk. The Company operates formally with various committees overseeing its business and charitable works.

Historically, livery companies operate on a basis of voluntary service and philanthropy. Members, often successful tradespeople and merchants, provide their expertise at no charge, contributing to community welfare and upholding professional standards.

During Jonathan’s term, a system called “Quaterage” will be introduced, requiring all members to pay a monthly fee to participate. This change ensures that as well as giving their time, every member should also be contributing financially towards the running costs of and the events organised by that livery company.

Jonathan Church’s Chosen Cause

Each Master selects a charity for their term. Jonathan has chosen to support “Walking With The Wounded,” a charity that empowers veterans by helping them regain a sense of purpose and lead independent lives. Fundraising events will begin with a Serpentine swimming event and culminate with a Cumbrian Challenge in 2025.

“At Walking With The Wounded, we support ex-service personnel and their families who are struggling after military service. We aim to provide personalized employment support, mental health and well-being services, and care coordination for those in need.”

Preserving the Future of the Footwear Trade

“Today, members of the Cordwainers come from all walks of life, but we share a common purpose: to support footwear education and the shoe industry, and to continue the remarkable legacy of charitable giving that unites the City liveries,” says Jonathan Church.

The Cordwainers Award, an annual event, celebrates excellence in footwear design and craftsmanship. It features students from leading universities, including the London College of Fashion, Northampton, De Montfort, and Capel Manor. This prestigious competition showcases innovative designs and technical skills, providing a platform for emerging talent to gain recognition and advance their careers in the industry.

To further raise awareness of the UK footwear trade, the Company has launched a podcast titled “In Their Shoes,” where members discuss their lives and experiences in the industry. You can listen to the podcast here.