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UGLE Governance | United Grand Lodge of England

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The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) is governed by a structured leadership team, including HRH The Duke of Kent as Grand Master, who has held the position for over 50 years. Key figures include Pro Grand Master Jonathan Spence, Deputy Grand Master Sir Michael Snyder, and Assistant Grand Masters Steven Varley, John Paul Thompson, and Charles Hopkinson-Woolley. The governance also features Jonathan C. Whitaker as President of the Board of General Purposes and Adrian Marsh as Grand Secretary. The leaders bring diverse backgrounds, with Spence emphasizing the sociable and enjoyable nature of Freemasonry, while Snyder and Varley highlight fellowship and the importance of understanding the Masonic journey. The document outlines the roles and experiences of these leaders, reflecting their commitment to fostering a welcoming and engaging environment within the UGLE. This governance structure is essential for maintaining the operational integrity and community spirit of Freemasonry in England.

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December 7th, 2025

Last Updated:

February 10th, 2026

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External source: www.ugle.org.uk

UGLE Governance Overview

The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) is led by:

  • Grand Master: HRH The Duke of Kent, who has served for over 50 years and is the longest-serving Grand Master.
  • Pro Grand Master: Jonathan Spence, who acts on behalf of the Grand Master during his royal duties.
  • Deputy Grand Master: Sir Michael Snyder.
  • Assistant Grand Masters: Steven Varley, John Paul Thompson, and Charles Hopkinson-Woolley.
  • President of the Board of General Purposes: Jonathan C. Whitaker.
  • Grand Secretary: Adrian Marsh.

Key Leaders:

  1. HRH The Duke of Kent

    • Born: 1935
    • Education: Eton and Le Rosey, Switzerland.
    • Freemasonry: Initiated in Royal Alpha Lodge No. 16 on December 16, 1963. Became Grand Master in 1967.

  2. Jonathan Spence, DL (Pro Grand Master)

    • Born: 1960
    • Education: Mathematical School, Rochester and Trinity College, Oxford.
    • Career: Former Chief Executive of a London bank; became a Freemason in 1982.

  3. Sir Michael Snyder (Deputy Grand Master)

    • Appointed: 2024
    • Background: Former Metropolitan Grand Master and leader in the accounting sector.

  4. Steven Varley (Assistant Grand Master)

    • Born: 1953
    • Education: Denstone College and Liverpool University (Law).
    • Career: Solicitor specializing in professional misconduct; initiated into St Werburga Lodge No. 4147 in 1983.

Notable Experiences and Insights:

  • Jonathan Spence describes Freemasonry as "thought-provoking, sociable, fun."
  • Sir Michael Snyder emphasizes "fellowship, interest, and enjoyment."
  • Steven Varley shares advice for new Freemasons to understand the journey and how everything fits together.

This summary encapsulates the leadership and governance structure of the UGLE, highlighting the backgrounds and contributions of its key figures.