Chief executive appointed by Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers has appointed Helen Perkins as its new chief executive, the livery company's ‘clerk.’

Ms Perkins has over 25 years of experience as a chartered company secretary and has worked in different industries, ranging from investment management to space satellite manufacture. 

Ms Perkins said: "I am very pleased to have the opportunity to put my professional skills and experience to use as the new ‘clerk.’ I look forward to meeting a wide range of people and playing my part in sustaining the fellowship and friendship of the Spectacle Makers.”

She added: “Prevention and treatment of visual impairment is just as important now as it was to the 17^th century spectacle makers who founded the livery company.”

Ms Perkins formally takes over from the present ‘clerk,’ Lieutenant Colonel John Salmon, OBE, at the company’s court meeting on 2 June.

WCSM ‘master,’ Dr Christine Tomkins, said: “Helen will bring new skills to the post of ‘clerk,’ tempered with the right degree of respect for custom and practice that is required in this exacting appointment. We wish her great success and happiness in her new role.”

Ms Perkins is currently company secretary of a global recruitment business, based in the city. She is married to Jonathan, a retired solicitor and charity trustee. They have two children, Catherine, 15, and James, 12.