Our Leadership Team
the howard staunton society committee
Trustees
Ray Keene OBE
International Chess GrandmasterGrandmaster Raymond Keene OBE is a British chess player, author, and organiser renowned for his contributions to the game worldwide. A prolific writer with over 200 books, he has also served as a chess correspondent for major newspapers. Keene co-founded the Howard Staunton Society and organised its landmark events.
Barry Martin
Renowned SculptorSculptor Barry Martin is a British artist known for his innovative work in kinetic and conceptual art. Martin’s work has been exhibited internationally and is held in major collections, including the Tate. Also a chess historian and co-founder of the Howard Staunton Society, he combines artistic creativity with intellectual inquiry into culture, design, and visual communication.
Brian Clivaz
MBA FIH FRSABrian Clivaz is a prominent figure in London’s luxury hospitality and private members’ club sector. He founded Home House, revived The Arts Club in Mayfair, and has led or chaired institutions like L’Escargot, the Devonshire Club, and Scott’s Restaurant. Brian is also one of the Founders of the Howard Staunton Society.
Operational Team
In addition to the Trustees, the Howard Staunton Society has a team of operational executives who assist with the organisational, promotional and educational work.
Ima von Wenden
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
LL.B.(Hons), MCIPR, CIPR Accredited Practitioner.
International communication professional with a background in journalism, brand heritage research, growth and management, she ensures the Society’s initiatives uphold both scholarly integrity and public engagement.
Her leadership strengthens partnerships, curates member experiences, and advances the Society’s mission to preserve Staunton’s enduring legacy in chess and culture.
International communication professional with a background in journalism, brand heritage research, growth and management, she ensures the Society’s initiatives uphold both scholarly integrity and public engagement.
Her leadership strengthens partnerships, curates member experiences, and advances the Society’s mission to preserve Staunton’s enduring legacy in chess and culture.
Sainbayar Tserendorj
GLOBAL AMBASSADORExtraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Founder of The UK Chess Academy, an experienced International Arbiter (IA, FIDE) and chess organiser whose career spans both Mongolia and the United Kingdom. Active in promoting international and educational chess, Sainbayar has directed and officiated numerous FIDE-rated tournaments and currently serves as a director of FIDE-UKCA Ltd.
Dedicated to upholding fair play and expanding access to competitive chess, he brings global experience and organisational expertise to the Society’s mission.
Dedicated to upholding fair play and expanding access to competitive chess, he brings global experience and organisational expertise to the Society’s mission.