Today, the Tallow Chandlers number about 180 Liverymen and over 100 Freemen. The Company's affairs are managed by the Court and its various Committees. A small number of permanent support staff, led by the Clerk and the Beadle, work full time at the Hall and play a vital role in the smooth running of both the Hall and the Company. Admission to the company is by a process combining invitation and interview. Once admitted, a candidate becomes a Freeman. Historically, the award of the Freedom marked the end of a seven year period of apprenticeship as a Tallow Chandler. A Freeman could then serve under any master, or set up shop independently. Freemen of the Company are also entitled to become Freemen of the City of London. Freemen will currently wait for between 5 and 7 years before being elected to full Liveryman status. The title 'Liveryman' also goes back to medieval times. Only full guild members were permitted to wear the distinctive liveried costumes of their respective organisations, and enjoy the living (use) of their individual guild halls - hence the title. Modern Liverymen are closely involved in the ongoing management of the Company.