Every Monday we profile one of our Members. This week in we are joined by Proprietor Steven Jones.
Who are you? I am Steven Jones, I am a maritime consultant and author, and have been part of The Athenaeum for around 5 years.
What is your greatest achievement? I once laid the first dedicated internet cable between the US and UK – that was pretty good! I’ve written some books I am proud of and have been involved in building the maritime community on Merseyside – that has been a source of much satisfaction. Last year I completed an MA in International Relations at Liverpool John Moores University – that felt good. That said, I hope I haven’t actually accomplished my greatest achievement yet!
Can you give one interesting fact about yourself? I am an eighth-generation seafarer, and first went to sea when I was 8. I sailed with my Father on the T&J Harrisons vessel, “MV Astronomer”, from Liverpool over to the Caribbean. Even as a small child there was something incredible about the feeling of leaving Liverpool, seeing the city slip astern heading across the Atlantic. It set the scene for much of my life to follow. I also own a boat that was previously owned by a protagonist at the heart of the Profumo Affair…thankfully I am yet to find any souvenirs of Christine Keeler’s time onboard.
What brought you to The Athenaeum? I moved back to the North West after a time of working away, and I met a few people and the name “Athenaeum” seemed to follow me around. So, I decided to find out more, and wasn’t disappointed. I needed a place in Liverpool to be able to do some work, meet clients and to also make me feel connected to the city.
Is there anything you would like to change about the Athenaeum? Yes, there are many things. Which could sound like criticism, but isn’t meant to, it reflects the faith and respect I have. When you have such an incredible organisation, such an amazing venue and a cultural icon – then it has to be challenged to remain relevant. Over hundreds of years people have pushed the boundaries, and thus it has survived. I would like to see the Athenaeum strengthen ties to the city’s business community. A roof terrace would be my ultimate wish list!
What would you say to anyone considering joining the Club? Come and have a coffee with me in the newsroom, and we can talk all about it.