Debbie Abergil Clerk, The Worshipful Company of Plumbers
The Role of the Clerk at the Worshipful Company of Plumbers
The Clerk is the executive officer of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, managing its operations, governance, and traditions. Responsible for administration, finance, and ceremonial duties, the Clerk ensures the smooth running of the Company while supporting its Liverymen and charitable activities. Acting as the key liaison between members, industry partners, and external bodies, the role requires diplomacy, organisation, and leadership. From coordinating prestigious events to overseeing charitable initiatives, the Clerk plays a vital part in preserving the Company’s heritage while guiding its future.
Debbie AbergilClerk to the Worshipful Company of Plumbers
Debbie, brings a wealth of experience and a lifelong connection to the Livery world. With her father having served twice as Past Master of the Lightmongers, Debbie grew up surrounded by Livery traditions, making her transition into the role of Clerk a natural progression. However, it was not just familiarity but a genuine passion for the values and community of the Company that led her to take on this prestigious role.
With 13 years of experience working with the Plumbers as a freelance Bookkeeper, Debbie had already built strong ties within the Company before stepping into the Clerk’s office. When Adrian stepped down to become a Warden of the Musicians’ Company, she saw an opportunity to apply her skills in a new way—moving beyond accounts into a position that combines governance, administration, and member engagement.
For Debbie, the most rewarding part of being Clerk is the day-to-day variety and the connections with members and the wider Livery world. “The Plumbers have such a strong and welcoming community, and I love being part of that,” she says.
Like any leadership role, stepping into the position has come with challenges, but she has embraced them with enthusiasm. “Even though I’ve been around the Company for years, there’s still so much to learn! Thankfully Adrian is still around to keep me in line and has been an absolute rock, I couldn’t do it without his support as well as that of the Master, the Wardens, the Court, and our members, and as long as they can tolerate my endless questions, I think I’m making good progress—give me a year or two!” she jokes.
As the first female Clerk of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, Debbie is conscious of her role in shaping the future while honouring the past. “I love tradition, but it’s just as important to stay relevant in a changing world. I’d like to think I can see both sides—though my children might disagree!” she laughs. She is also passionate about increasing the profile of women in the Livery, hoping to encourage greater diversity within the Company.
At the heart of her approach is her people-first mindset. “A great Clerk should be approachable, supportive, and ensure that we remain one of the friendliest Livery Companies,” she explains. Whether managing key events, liaising with members, or tackling governance, Debbie is committed to preserving the Company’s welcoming reputation and guiding it toward a thriving future.
When asked about her aspirations, Debbie’s focus is clear: to see the Worshipful Company of Plumbers continue to grow with an engaged and diverse membership. Each event brings new challenges and learning opportunities, but her ultimate goal is to ensure the Court and membership feel proud of the Company’s progress.
Outside of her role, Debbie enjoys travel, theatre, and live music—though finding time for those hobbies has become more difficult!
Her biggest lesson so far? “It’s okay to be the rabbit in the headlights—as long as you keep moving forward!”
With her dedication, warmth, and vision, Debbie Abergil is not just upholding the traditions of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers—she is helping to shape its future.