Exeter’s new Lord Mayor: Meet Cllr Anne Jobson

Cllr Anne Jobson has been appointed as the new Lord Mayor of Exeter and will use her year in office to support local charity Exeter Riding for the Disabled.

She was officially made Lord Mayor at the Annual Council Meeting on Tuesday 13 May, with Cllr Gemma Rolstone appointed as her Deputy.

The role of Lord Mayor is a ceremonial one, acting as the city’s first citizen and representing Exeter at public events, civic functions, and community celebrations throughout the year.

Cllr Jobson, who has represented the St Loyes ward since being elected to the City Council in 2021, said she was “delighted” to be supporting the Alphington-based charity during her term.

“I wanted to support this group as they provide free, safe riding facilities for children with disabilities in and around Exeter,” she told the Exeter City Council website.

“The weekly riding sessions provide not just therapy, but fun and a sense of achievement which undoubtedly help their everyday activities outside the riding environment.”

From student journalist to Lord Mayor

Born in Fareham, Hampshire, Cllr Jobson studied Business Law, Economics and Accountancy at the City of London Polytechnic, where she met her late husband Andrew while editing the student newspaper.

The couple shared a passion for cricket and lived in north London before Andrew’s death shortly before his 50th birthday. Cllr Jobson relocated to Exeter in 2001.

A barrister by profession, she specialises in family law and works with Chambers in both London and Exeter. She was awarded an OBE in 1992 for political and public service and stood as a parliamentary candidate in three General Elections while living in London.

In addition to her council duties, she serves as a trustee of Exeter Canal & Quay Trust, a director of Exeter Homes Trust, and sits on the Oversight Committee of the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM).

Outside politics, Cllr Jobson enjoys walking her springer spaniel in Exeter’s Valley Parks, teaches ballet, volunteers at the Devon Bird of Prey Centre, and keeps a pet Little Owl.

Supporting her throughout the year will be Cllr Gemma Rolstone, who represents Topsham ward and works as an early years teacher. A rugby fan and Exeter Chiefs supporter, she is set to volunteer at Sandy Park during the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.

What does the Lord Mayor of Exeter actually do?

The Lord Mayor of Exeter is a ceremonial, non-political role, traditionally held by a sitting city councillor.

As the first citizen of the city, the Lord Mayor:

• Represents Exeter at public and civic events

• Hosts official visitors and supports local organisations

• Promotes community cohesion and charitable causes

• Chairs meetings of the full City Council

The position is held for one year and often includes choosing a mayoral charity, which the Lord Mayor supports through fundraising and public engagement.