In this Q&A, Rob Millington OStJ, Head of Chancery at St John International and the Priory of England and the Islands, reflects on his role, the work of the Chancery, and what continues to inspire him across his long-standing connection with St John.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role as Head of Chancery at SJI?
My involvement in St John pretty much began at birth and my family has been continuously involved, both as volunteers and employees, since 1925 – so I suppose you could say that it is in my blood! My role combines being Head of Chancery both for the Order, since January this year, and for the Priory of England and the Islands, which I have been for over 12 years.
What does a typical day look like for you as Head of Chancery?
There is no such thing as a typical day, but the work of the team broadly falls into two areas: processing nominations for admission to, and promotion within, the Order of St John, and preparing for ceremonial occasions such as St John’s Day or investitures, whether in England or supporting those held elsewhere. We also regularly convey matters to the Grand Prior for his approval, such as the appointment of new Priors.
How would you describe the role of the Chancery within St John and its importance to the organisation?
Historically the Chancery was the ‘headquarters’ of the Order, providing its central administration from the time of our restoration in England nearly 200 years ago. Over the years, as the Order developed and its work expanded, the Chancery evolved to focus on the ‘chivalric’ aspects: managing the honours system and arranging our ceremonies. The Chancery was effectively split into two in 1999, with the majority becoming part of the the Priory of England and the Islands. It is therefore the oldest ‘department’ within the Order and I think that two key elements of its role are to provide ‘institutional memory’ and to ensure that the ‘chivalric’ side of the Order remains relevant within the modern organisation.
What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about the work of the Chancery?
I think the sheer variation of the work would surprise many. One day I could be writing a paper for consideration by the Order’s Trustees and the next arranging an interment of the ashes of a deceased Order member in the Memorial Garden at the Priory Church. I really is that broad.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your role so far?
I particularly enjoy investitures, especially seeing the pride on the faces of recipients and the delight of their families and friends. As my team would tell you, I am determined to ensure that those receiving awards feel – for those few brief moments when they are collecting their award – like the most special person in the room. Seeing their smiling faces as they return to their seats is the sign of a job well done.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I am an Honorary Steward at Westminster Abbey where I help to support the smooth running of both regular Sunday, and special services. I enjoy reading, mostly history and biographies, walking and LEGO!
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your role and for the future of SJI?
I am really excited by the opportunity to be bringing the Chancery back together which I hope will prove to be a great example of cooperation across the Order. I am a firm believer that the more the various parts of St John can find ways to work together, the greater our impact will be.
