Dame Antonia Romeo Becomes First Female UK Cabinet Secretary Starting October 2024

Dame Antonia Romeo is now the UK's first female Cabinet Secretary, a role held for over 100 years. This is a major change for the government.
By Newsroom | Politics, UK |

Dame Antonia Romeo has been appointed as the United Kingdom's first female Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service. This significant appointment, announced recently, places her at the helm of the nation's civil service, a role she will undertake to guide change and execute the government's plans.

Antonia Romeo appointed as UK’s first female cabinet secretary - 1

A Landmark Appointment

The appointment of Dame Antonia Romeo as the Cabinet Secretary is historic, marking the first time a woman has held this position in its over 100-year existence. The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, expressed his delight, stating that Dame Antonia's extensive experience, built over 25 years in public service leadership, will be instrumental in leading the Civil Service. This move follows the departure of Sir Chris Wormald from the role.

Antonia Romeo appointed as UK’s first female cabinet secretary - 2

Background and Career Path

Dame Antonia Romeo is currently the Permanent Secretary at the Home Office. Her career in public service includes a notable tenure as the British consul general in New York, where she was involved in promoting British interests and trade. Prior to that, she held positions such as director general for criminal justice at the Ministry of Justice and head of the Economic and Domestic Affairs Secretariat at the Cabinet Office. Her previous roles are seen as stepping stones to senior leadership positions within the government. She was recognized with a Dame Commander of the Order of the Bath in the King's Birthday Honours.

Read More: Texas Senate Democratic Primary Early Voting Starts February 17, 2026 Affecting Voters

Antonia Romeo appointed as UK’s first female cabinet secretary - 3

Path to Leadership

The process for selecting the new Cabinet Secretary was agreed upon by the Prime Minister and the First Civil Service Commissioner. Dame Antonia's career has been marked by various high-profile roles. She previously served as the permanent secretary of the Department for International Trade. Her experience at the Home Office, including her handling of the "small boats crisis," is noted as a factor in impressing the Prime Minister.

Antonia Romeo appointed as UK’s first female cabinet secretary - 4

Public Perception and Professional Style

Sources suggest Dame Antonia Romeo is perceived as an unconventional civil servant, with a more outward-facing approach than many of her peers. She is described as being comfortable attending public events and skilled in networking. However, there are differing views on her professional style. Some colleagues note a tendency towards self-promotion, with some murmurs of disapproval regarding this aspect.

  • Romeo's approach is seen as distinct within the civil service.

  • She is known for engaging with external events and networking.

There have been past allegations concerning her management style. One report mentioned that she was previously spoken to about her management approach. Another account raised allegations about her allowing her husband's firm to use taxpayer-owned property for events without charge and potentially threatening junior staff who voiced concerns. Allies have defended such spending as necessary for promoting the UK, while some former colleagues suggested a focus on personal branding over national interests.

Read More: UK Secondary Schools Will Get New 'Inclusion Bases' for Students with Special Needs by Spring 2026

  • Allegations of her management style have surfaced, including a past instance of being spoken to about it.

  • Concerns were raised about the use of public property for private business and alleged staff intimidation.

  • Her supporters attribute her actions to job requirements for promoting the UK.

Educational and Early Career

Dame Antonia Romeo attended Westminster School and Oxford University. Following her academic pursuits, she briefly worked for the management consulting firm Oliver Wyman before entering the civil service. Her early career included roles such as a principal private secretary.

Conclusion

Dame Antonia Romeo's appointment as the UK's first female Cabinet Secretary is a historic event. Her extensive public service career, coupled with her current role at the Home Office, positions her to lead the Civil Service. While her professional style has drawn varied observations, including past allegations regarding her management, her supporters highlight her commitment to public service and her effectiveness in challenging roles. The focus will now be on her leadership in driving government initiatives and implementing policy.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Dame Antonia Romeo and what is her new job?
Dame Antonia Romeo is the new UK Cabinet Secretary. She is the first woman to hold this important job, which starts in October 2024. She will lead the country's civil service.
Q: Why is Dame Antonia Romeo's appointment important?
Her appointment is historic because she is the first woman to become Cabinet Secretary in the UK's 100-year history. This means a woman will now lead the government's main administrative body.
Q: What experience does Dame Antonia Romeo have for this role?
She has worked in public service for over 25 years, including being the Permanent Secretary at the Home Office. She also worked in New York and the Ministry of Justice.
Q: What are some views on Dame Antonia Romeo's work style?
Some people see her as an outgoing leader who is good at networking. Others have raised concerns about her management style in the past and how she uses public resources. Her supporters say she does what is needed to promote the UK.
Q: What will Dame Antonia Romeo do as Cabinet Secretary?
She will lead the Civil Service, helping the government make and carry out its plans. Her job is to guide the work of government officials across the country.