Membership & Structure

Individuals join the Guildry by way of member’s invitation which are ratified by the Assessorate. Consideration is given of the contribution made by the prospective members to the City of Dundee.

Joining fee is currently set at £100 for Life Membership.

New Members receive in addition to a membership certificate, a complimentary copy of the History of the Guildry and a copy of King John’s charter 1299.

Structure

Steeped in centuries of tradition, the Guildry operates under a structured leadership system that maintains its historical significance and ongoing community impact. The Lord Dean of Guild leads the organisation, backed by an elected council overseeing diverse Guildry functions.

This framework preserves the Guildry’s legacy while evolving to meet contemporary Dundee’s needs, bridging the city’s history with its future aspirations.

  • Lord Dean of Guild
    Joe Morrow CVO CBE KCDL FRSE

    The Lord Dean is in effect, Chairman of the Incorporation, conducting regular meetings with officials and the Assessorate as well as attending official functions such as the Guildry and Craft Kirkins and Remembrance services. Though elected annually, the LDG is expected to serve a three year term of office.

    Historically, the position was deemed to be second in importance only to that of Lord Provost. It is customary for the LDofG and another nominated Guildry member to be appointed ex officio Directors of The High School of Dundee.

  • Clerk
    Stuart D M King

    As Secretary of the Guildry, the Clerk is responsible for all administrative matters including preparation and distribution of meeting agenda, minutes and official correspondence. As the ‘nodal point’ of the Incorporation, they ensure it maintains a close working relationship with the City Council.

  • Collector
    Jim Pickett

    The Guildry is a registered charity (No SCO112860) and the Collector (Treasurer) is responsible for meeting the regulations imposed by OSCR, the Scottish Charity Regulator.

    This means ensuring that Guildry financial matters are conducted in a fully satisfactory manner with annual produced accounts ratified by members at the Annual General Meeting.

  • Keeper of the Gavel
    (vacant)

    The honorary role was created for the late Bruce Kelly in recognition of his service to the Incorporation.

  • Chaplain
    Rev Keith Hall

    The Guildry has always had a close association with St. Mary’s Church. The original building was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary at the close of the 12th Century by David, Earl of Huntingdon, brother to King William the Lion of Scotland. Through the centuries the structure has been rebuilt and has suffered periodic damage by strife and conflagration but the church has survived.

    Rebuilt in 1841 after a disastrous fire, it is now acknowledged as the City Church. Its Minister is an integral part of the Incorporation and officiates at the Annual Kirkin. This event, which sees members and officials process from the City Chambers through the city centre to the Church is held in the early months of each new year.

  • Archivist
    Iain Flett

    With its rich history and traditions, the importance of the Keeper of Guildry Records cannot be underestimated.

Assessorate

These comprise members of some years standing who are nominated at the AGM to form the Council or Committee of Advisors to Lord Dean of Guild.

They serve a three year term after which, are eligible for re-election.

  • David Aitken

  • Bill Barr

  • Mike Clark Past LDG

  • Brian Cram

  • David Comb

  • Neil Cuthbert

  • Robert Dunn

  • Iain Flett

  • Gus McDonald

  • Prof Malcolm Horner

  • Dr Andrew Hourd

  • Stuart King

  • Ian Mathers

  • Ian Milne

  • Joe Morrow LDG

  • Ivor Morton

  • Iain Murray

  • Brian McLeod

  • Roy McLellan

  • Stan Nutt

  • Jim Pickett

  • Ian Rae

  • Graeme Reid

  • Dr Graham Summers

  • Dr Yolanda Watson

  • Sheriff George Way of Plean