Saying Yes – A Life of Service, Leadership and Community Impact

Combining professional success, charitable impact and a philosophy of saying yes to opportunities, Simon Pott (ThA 59-67) has built a life defined not by a single achievement, but by the lasting difference he has made to people, places and institutions.

From safeguarding historic buildings to improving access to housing, Simon’s contribution demonstrates how commitment, energy and involvement can ripple far beyond one career, shaped during his time at Christ’s Hospital.

 A Career Across Countryside, Community, and the World

“What is life if not to cram in as much as possible?” Following an extensive professional path, Simon built a career across rural land management – as a chartered surveyor, valuer, auctioneer and land agent. His leadership in the profession culminated in his appointment as President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. His work allowed him to travel extensively around the world promoting his profession.

Alongside his core career, Simon consistently took on wider public responsibility, serving in leadership roles in education as governor of schools and housing at the Almshouse Association. He was thrilled to be a student at the Royal Agricultural College and ended as Chairman of the Council of the Royal Agricultural University. His leadership skills prompted him to get involved with the British/American Committee at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk where he became their first honorary commander. Each of these roles reflected his belief that professional skills carry a responsibility to serve the wider community.

A Champion of Charities and Community Heritage

“Never say you have not got time – it is just not true. Get involved with the widest range of projects and people, benefitting from their experiences and building up your own.”

Rather than supporting just one cause, Simon served – and continues to serve – as a Trustee for around 15 charities.

Simon’s work includes restoring the historic Guildhall in Bury St Edmunds, the oldest continuously-used civic building in Britain, proudly featuring a World War Two Royal Observer Corps Control Centre – the only surviving room of its kind in the world.

He has also helped raise millions of pounds for both preservation and social good for projects in and around Bury St Edmunds, including Ickworth Church, St Mary’s Church, Theatre Royal - one of eight Grade I listed theatres in the UK - and St Edmundsbury Cathedral. His work preserving and restoring these historic buildings ensures they remain active community spaces rather than fading landmarks, supporting local communities to continue using and benefiting from them.

Supporting housing provision for vulnerable people, Simon was proud to chair the Almshouse Association, the umbrella organisation for over 1,600 almshouse charities in the UK, housing almost 40,000 people. He now chairs their Awards Committee.

A Passion for Education and Family

Simon’s time isn’t only spent with his many charitable causes, he is also deeply passionate about education, from junior schools to universities. He has been governor of several schools, including Culford, an independent school in Bury St Edmunds. Through these roles, he has contributed to shaping opportunities and outcomes for young people.

He also remains a regular and generous supporter of the Christ’s Hospital bursary fund, reflecting both his kindness and his deep appreciation for the opportunities he was given at CH. At the heart of Simon’s busy life is his family. “Alongside my commitments, I share a full and rewarding life with my wife, our four children, and nine grandchildren. With so many causes and loved ones to support, there is always lots to do!”

Simon’s CH Journey

Simon joined Christ’s Hospital as a Grocers’ Company presentee, alongside his twin brother, Andrew (ThA 59-67). “We will always be most grateful for the chances granted to us by CH. We pursued very different interests, his more academic and mine devoted largely to sports including cricket, rugby, football, athletics, hockey, basketball and tennis – somewhat reducing time for academic subjects but managing to squeeze through.”

What stood out most for Simon during his time at CH were the people, teachers, other staff, fellow students and teammates. He describes the lessons in accepting defeat with grace, the camaraderie, the discipline from an early age, along with learning how to engage correctly with leadership when opportunities arose.

Christ’s Hospital gave Simon the mindset that underpinned his career. “At CH, I was taught to get on with life and make the most of it. My academic achievements were modest, but I learned there were other ways to go forward on the JDI basis (just do it!). Set goals, be prepared to get involved and do everything with enthusiasm…Understand the ten second interview – walk in, look the person in the eye, give them a firm handshake and smile – you are miles ahead already!”

“The presentation from the Grocers’ Company gave the chance of an education which quite simply would not have been available otherwise, and I hope roles that I have played within CH, and then for the company, have paid back in small measure the generosity received.”

He remembers his time at the school as “life giving, life changing and providing a platform from which to dive into all sorts of ventures.”

Simon’s lifelong energy and commitment to community make his story a powerful example of the lasting impact of a Christ’s Hospital education.