IHBC news Notesfrom the Chair Having said our goodbyes to my predecessor in the last issue of Context, I am now delighted that Malcolm Airs has accepted Council's invitation to become the lnstitute's first President. This non-executive post is appointed, rather than elected. It means that Malcolm will continue to be a prominent ambassador for the Institute, a role he has played so well over the last three years, unencumbered by day-today management. In this capacity, he has already met the new chair of the National Trust and he continues to represent the Institute on the Historic Environment Review Steering Group, which is considering life after Power of Place. The new management structure is also taking shape. The three Vice Chairs -Sarah Higgins (Business), Mark Strawbridge (Policy and Practice), and Ronnie Robertson (Membership) - now have their three respective committees, made up of the Institute's officers and regional representatives, and each committee even has its own bank account. They are now feeling their way through Terms of Reference and Delegated Powers and we shall review the effectiveness of the new arrangements when they have set out their own work plans. I am keen, however, that the committees should have plenty of room for manoeuvre so that the burden is shared widely and decision-making is less remote from the membership. All the other functions of the Institute, such as the Education, Law and Practice, and Technical groups are now subcommittees. As we consolidate in one area, however, there are structural problems in others. Since the AGM in April we have been without a Publicity Secretary. This is a vital post if we are to reach beyond our own constituency as I believe we should. I am very keen, therefore, to hear from anyone who feels they could contribute to this aspect of the Institute's work. No special skills are needed, other than enthusiasm and a basic ability to communicate. A brief and a range of contacts are here for you to develop. We have also been put on notice that our Treasurer intends to step down at the next AGM. Rob Parkinson has been instrumental in CONTEXT 71 SEPTEMBER 2001 Eddie Booth. putting the lnstitute's finances on to a sound and efficient basis over the last six years, a term that is surely more than we should expect of anyone. I owe him a particular debt of gratitude because he narrowly saved me from volunteering at a time when the then ACO was in desperate need. I am very concerned that we should not be faced with the same desperation next year and Council is keen to plan ahead and canvas the whole membership, through the branches, for potential Treasurers. We cannot pre-judge the election of the post at the next AGM, but I would urge anyone who is remotely interested to contact Rob Parkinson soon. He will be glad to explain what is involved and offer opportunities for shadowing. He assures me that the job is not difficult. All this reminds me forcibly that, however much assistance we may be able to buy in from time to time, the IHBC remains essentially a self-help organisation. It provides a readymade network, a qualification, and for many people it defines their livelihood. These qualities are maintained by relatively few people, yet they would be the first to say that there should be a more widespread involvement. The Publicity Secretary and Treasurer are particularly immediate vacancies, but there are always opportunities to put back into your Institute some of what you take out. Have you spoken to your branch chair lately? Eddie Booth Membershipnotes On 15 July 2001, there were 1388 members on the IHBC membership database. This figure included 1031 full members, 209 affiliate members, 20 associate members, eight corporate members, 25 retired members and 95 former ACO members who are currently affiliate members. The breakdown of membership by branch at 15 July was 151 in East Anglia, 120 in East Midlands, 167 in London, 22 in Northern Ireland, 49 in North, 83 in North West, 12 in the Republic of Ireland, 93 in Scotland, 123 in South East, 111 in South, 198 in South West, 61 in Wales, 78 in West Midlands, 109 in Yorkshire and 11 Overseas. The following new Members were voted in at the Council meetings on 26 April, 14 June and 12 July 2001 (branch letters in parentheses). Welcome to you all. Full Members Peter Aiers (EM) Lucy Allwood (NW) Dr Mark K Askey (EM) Peter L H Baker (YO) Sheena Campbell (YO) Diccon Carpendale (SW) Emma Griffiths (SC) G Adrian G Griffiths (WA) Stephen Guy (SW) Alan Hazelwood (EA) Andy Lawson (EM) Dr Deborah Mays (SC) Mo Pearce (SW) Ashley Pettit (NW) Barry Pritchard (LO) Robert Thorniley-Walker (NO) Gary Worsfold (SW) Affiliate Members Stuart Arden (OV) Victoria Ball (SC) Mr Allan Benn (SE) Mr GD Cooper (WA) Continued on page 41 39
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