Dame Antonia Romeo Becomes First Female Cabinet Secretary and Head of Civil Service to Lead Government Reforms Across the United Kingdom

Dame Antonia Romeo has made history by becoming the first woman ever to be appointed Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service in the United Kingdom.

The role, which has existed for over a century, places her at the helm of the Civil Service, steering the machinery of government to deliver on national priorities.

Her appointment comes after a rigorous process overseen by the independent First Civil Service Commissioner.

A Career Built on Leadership and Reform

Currently the Permanent Secretary of the Home Office, Dame Antonia brings 25 years of public service experience to her new role.

She is the longest-serving permanent secretary in government, with a track record of leading complex departments and driving large-scale reforms.

During her tenure at the Department of International Trade, she was instrumental in establishing the department from scratch post-Brexit, integrating trade policy, promotion, and finance in ways the UK had never done before.

At the Ministry of Justice, she managed the official response to the civil unrest of 2024 and launched the Sentencing Review, ensuring public safety and modernising justice systems.

At the Home Office, she initiated reforms of the asylum system and policing, while also leading a landmark strategy to improve safety for women and girls.

Prime Minister Praises Experience and Dedication

Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the appointment, highlighting Dame Antonia’s professionalism and determination. “Families across the country are feeling the squeeze, and this government is focused on easing the cost of living, strengthening public services, and restoring pride in our communities,” he said. “Antonia has shown she is the right person to drive the government’s reform agenda, and I look forward to working with her during this period of national renewal.”

Dame Antonia’s Vision for the Civil Service

In her first statement as Cabinet Secretary, Dame Antonia expressed both gratitude and determination.

“The Civil Service is a great and remarkable institution,” she said.

“We should be known for delivery, efficiency, and innovation, working to implement the government’s agenda and meet the challenges the country faces.

I look forward to collaborating with colleagues across the Civil Service to make this happen.”

Appointment Process and Endorsements

Following the departure of Sir Chris Wormald, the Prime Minister and First Civil Service Commissioner Baroness Gisela Stuart conducted a thorough recruitment process.

Dame Antonia emerged as a candidate of the highest calibre, having led two of the largest operational departments in government.

Baroness Stuart confirmed her suitability, noting her extensive experience and leadership across challenging portfolios.

An enhanced due diligence review by the Cabinet Office further validated her credentials.

What’s Next?

Dame Antonia Romeo takes up her new role immediately, with the responsibility of guiding the Civil Service through critical reforms and supporting the government’s agenda.

Observers expect her to focus on enhancing efficiency, fostering innovation across departments, and strengthening public trust in government operations.

Her appointment also signals a potential cultural shift within the Civil Service, with more emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and modern leadership practices.

Summary

Dame Antonia Romeo’s appointment as Cabinet Secretary is historic, making her the first woman to lead the UK Civil Service in over 100 years.

With decades of leadership experience and a proven record in major departments like the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, and Department of International Trade, she is well-positioned to drive government reform.

Her tenure marks not only a milestone for gender equality but also a potential turning point in how the Civil Service tackles modern challenges, from public safety to economic strategy.