Visit from the ‘Master of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers’, James Minett (’76)

When I told the Economics and Business students who would be meeting them on Wednesday 5th June,  'the Master of one of the oldest guilds in London, founded in 1501', they were – perhaps understandably – non-plussed.

Their enthusiasm piqued though when I explained how James had achieved this title and what he had managed in his career. It is fair to say that his visit was a riotous success!

James journey at Langley began in 1970 (and we were able to document this with the school photographs through his time with us) and left to join Norwich Union’s investment department. Within 18 months he had made his way to Rowe and Pitman, stockbrokers in London, moving on to Buckmaster and Moore to become a fund manager. While he worked here, by his estimation, he was often no less than 30 metres away from his previous Head Boy and Rugby team mate, Malcolm Streatfield (’75). He worked with this firm until 1995, moving on to Carr Sheppards/Investec for the rest of his career, managing charitable portfolios, until his retirement.

It was during this time that James advised the Investment Committee of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, attending delightful dinners until be invited to join their ranks. He is now the ‘Master-elect’ of said Guild and his name will be added to the grand board in their HQ, recounting all the masters since 1501. (see photo)

James came into Langley to see (and photograph) the fabulous works of art that are still in the school and also to speak with our L6/U6 students about his career, alongside Malcolm Streatfield, who he hadn’t seen since 1975! (see photo).

These two fabulous Icenians shared their experiences in the creation of investment products, advising of clients towards investment, regulation of banks and businesses, as well as valuable workplace experience and guidance  for the future, in terms of interests and activities. Furthermore, both shared wonderful anecdotes about meeting Jeff Bezos, playing sport and travelling the world through their wide and varied careers. They sung the praises of those who could speak multiple languages and offered to help advise those who wanted to follow similar paths in the future. We were truly blessed.

I would like to thank James and Malcolm for their time and I hope to see other old boys and girls in the future to hear tales of their exploits, experiences and excesses!

Best advice of the day – Malcolm said ‘Enjoy your job’ (so important) and James proffered the advice ‘Persevere’ (a dictum which we all recognise!)

Obligatory photo outside the Main House taken too! 

Perseverando.

You can find out more about the Plaisterers Company here - Plaisterers Company

And more about what James and Malcolm talked to the students about - JP Morgan Asset Management Guide