Founded by an Act of Parliament in 1773, Assay Office Birmingham has a 240-year history of providing consumer protection in the form of testing and hallmarking of precious metals.

In addition to the original core business, four further divisions have been developed.

  • The Analytical Laboratory has gained international respect as an authority in the testing of precious metals, nickel, lead cadmium and other elements restricted by REACH, RoHS and further international regulations and legislation
  • AnchorCert, one of the UK’s best resourced gemmological facilities
  • SafeGuard, a leading valuation service for jewellery, watches and silverware
  • The Academy, delivering specialist courses to businesses and individuals in many aspects of precious metals analysis, gemmology and retail skills

Since its foundation, Assay Office Birmingham has grown based on its independent expertise, integrity and innovation. We are now looking for candidates with a high level of business acumen and a strong interest in the Assay Office to join our existing team of Guardians, as we approach our 250 anniversary.

Guardians of the Standard of Wrought Plate in Birmingham

As an independent business formed by an act of Parliament, Assay Office Birmingham is controlled by a group of 36 elected “Guardians of the Standard of Wrought Plate in Birmingham”, of whom not more than nine or less than six may be connected with the jewellery trade.

The Guardians subsequently elect Wardens from amongst their number to serve on a Board to which the Chief Executive and Assay Master reports.

The Birmingham Assay Office is seeking seasoned individuals to serve as Guardians, who have experience, knowledge and professional standing and who are actively engaged in any of the areas listed below.

These are unpaid posts with an initial requirement to attend 2 meetings per year. However, it is important that a Guardian can be called upon as required to provide independent advice, professional guidance and introductions within their field of expertise for the benefit of the Assay Office.

Guardians must be prepared to stand as Wardens if required; this is a more time-consuming role and is remunerated.

Competencies that we are looking for in a Guardian

Candidates will be preferred if they are resident or working in the Greater Birmingham area. We would welcome applications from people who have a strong business background at a senior level in ANY ONE OR MORE of the following areas:

  • Precious metal and/or associated trades (including manufacturing, retail, wholesale etc)
  • Global business acumen/International commerce
  • General Management of Medium/Large enterprise
  • Financial Management of trading enterprise, cost accountant etc
  • Marketing/PR/Media
  • Analytical Laboratory management
  • Certification Body
  • Training & Higher Education, e-learning platforms
  • Lean Manufacturing or Logistics Management

If you feel that you are suitably qualified and would like to know more about the role of a Guardian, please send an introduction and your CV no later than 31 OCTOBER 2017 to Kate Hartigan, Chairman of the Wardens at kate.hartigan@theassayoffice.co.uk