Meet the new Chairman – Mr Stephen Chambers

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your background?

I live in the south-east of the UK with my wife and our two ‘children’, who are both now young adults. Following a 30-year career in leadership roles across IT, information security, governance, risk and compliance, I have recently stepped back from the corporate world to devote more time to my other great passion: military history.

Having swapped the corporate office for the ‘battlefield’, I now have greater opportunity to pursue my interests in historical research, lecturing, and guiding groups around Gallipoli and other historic battlefields.

2. What first got you interested in Gallipoli?

Firstly, I think it was Peter Weir’s 1981 film Gallipoli, which I saw at the cinema upon its release. I was 15 at the time. However, my interest in the campaign had begun before then, thanks in large part to two passionate teachers at secondary school who instilled in me a fascination with the First World War. Although our school battlefield trip took us to Ypres and the Somme, we were given the opportunity to write a paper on any aspect of the First World War. I chose Gallipoli. Looking back, that was probably the real beginning of a lifelong interest in the campaign, which has continued to this day.

3. How did you become a Trustee?

My journey to becoming a Trustee grew out of a lifelong interest in the Gallipoli Campaign. I joined the GA in the early 1980s, while still a teenager. It is quite remarkable to think that I have now been a member for over 40 years! Around 2010, before the GA became a registered charity, I was invited to join the Committee as Webmaster, with primary responsibility for managing the Association’s website. This provided an opportunity to contribute more actively to the GA and support its development. During this time, I upgraded the website, introduced an integrated membership database and electronic newsletters, helped establish an annual conference, and contributed significantly to the Gallipoli100 education project in the lead-up to the campaign’s centenary.

When the GA became a charity in 2013, becoming a Trustee was a natural progression. Having already been closely involved in the Association’s work, I welcomed the opportunity to contribute more directly to its governance and strategic direction, while helping to secure its long-term future.

4. What made you want to take on the role of chairman?

A good question. Becoming Chairman was never something I had actively aspired to, but the opportunity arose when Brigadier James Stopford indicated that he was stepping down. James had done a wonderful job during his tenure, and while none of us wanted to see him go, ten years is a considerable commitment, the time was right for a change.

Having retired from the corporate world, the timing was right for me to step up and take on the role. The unanimous vote of confidence and support from my fellow Trustees made the decision all the easier and gave me great encouragement as I took on the responsibility.

Members can expect a Chairman who is committed, approachable and willing to listen. I see the Chairmanship as an opportunity to give something back to an Association that I hope will be around for many decades to come. I am keen to build on the excellent work already done, while helping to ensure that the GA continues to develop, reach new audiences and engage future generations.

5. What do you value most about the association and its members?

What I value most about the GA is its members wherever in the world they may be. Although UK-based, we have forged wonderful partnerships around the globe, including in Turkey and France, and established local chapters in Australia and Germany. Our members span some 20 countries, which is testament to the international interest in the campaign and the connections the GA continues to foster.

However, it is our members, their commitment, support and camaraderie that truly make the Association what it is. Their knowledge, enthusiasm and willingness to share research, personal connections and family histories bring the campaign to life and ensure its stories are never forgotten. Our continued strong membership is a real credit to that shared sense of purpose. It is this collective spirit and commitment to future generations that makes the Association so special.

6. What is your vision for the association?

My vision for the GA is to build on its proud history and strong foundations, ensuring that it remains vibrant, relevant and forward-looking, while staying true to its core purpose of preserving the memory and history of the Gallipoli Campaign.

Education, honouring those who served, and remembrance will remain at the heart of the Association’s work. I would like to see us continue to raise awareness of the campaign, encourage historical research and engage new audiences, young and old, so that the experiences and sacrifices of those who served are continued to be understood and never forgotten.

I also want the GA to continue being an active and welcoming association, where members feel valued, can share their knowledge and enthusiasm, and are encouraged to contribute to its future. By embracing new ideas, strengthening our educational outreach and making the most of the knowledge within our membership, we can extend our reach and impact. Keeping the story of Gallipoli alive, not simply as a chapter in history, but as a human story of service, courage and sacrifice that continues to resonate today is paramount.

7. What is your message to members as you begin your term?

As I begin my term as Chairman, I would like to thank our members for their continued support and commitment. I would like to see members play an active role in shaping the future of the Association. The GA has a wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm, and I would encourage everyone to contribute in whatever way they can. Whether researching family histories, supporting educational initiatives and commemorative events, contributing to our publications or simply sharing ideas, every contribution is valued.

Ultimately, I want members to feel that the GA is their Association—a place where their knowledge, enthusiasm and contributions are valued, and where everyone can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can keep the history of the Gallipoli Campaign alive, honour all those who served, and ensure that the sacrifices made are never forgotten.