The United Kingdom has appointed Antonia Romeo as Cabinet Secretary, marking the first time a woman has taken on the most senior role in the civil service.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the appointment on Thursday, tasking Romeo with leading a sweeping reform drive across government. The role places her at the heart of policy delivery and coordination, overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the civil service.

Romeo succeeds Chris Wormald, who stepped down last week following a dispute linked to the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. Wormald’s departure made him the third senior figure to exit Starmer’s team in recent weeks.

Announcing the decision, Starmer described Romeo as an “outstanding public servant,” praising her professionalism and determination. “Antonia has shown she is the right person to drive the government to reform,” he said.

Romeo brings extensive experience across Whitehall. She most recently served as permanent secretary at the interior ministry and has previously held the same post at the justice ministry and the department for international trade. Earlier in her career, she worked as the UK’s consul general in New York and as a special envoy to U.S. technology companies.

Her appointment follows reports earlier this week by the BBC that she had faced allegations of bullying during her time as a senior diplomat in New York. Downing Street said a single formal complaint was raised nine years ago but was dismissed after investigators found no case to answer.

Romeo, who joined the civil service in 2000 as a professional economist, said it was a “huge privilege” to lead what she called a “great and remarkable institution.”

“We should be known for delivery, efficiency and innovation,” she said in a statement. “Our focus must be on implementing the government’s agenda and meeting the challenges the country faces.”

Her appointment takes effect immediately, placing her at the centre of the Starmer government’s efforts to reshape how the state operates and delivers results. Photo by HM Government, Wikimedia commons.