STORY
The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced the appointment of Jo Shanmugalingam as its new Permanent Secretary, effective from 1 July 2025. Ms Shanmugalingam takes over from Bernadette Kelly, who stepped down last month after eight years in the role and 39 years in the Civil Service. Having served as the DfT’s Second Permanent Secretary and, most recently, as Interim Permanent Secretary, Ms Shanmugalingam brings a wealth of experience to the position. Her career spans various government departments, beginning at the Department for Trade and Industry. She also spent six years at the Shareholder Executive (now UKGI) and held a Director General role for Science, Innovation and Growth at both the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Business Energy & Industrial Strategy.
In her new capacity, Ms Shanmugalingam will be instrumental in leading the department’s efforts to enhance Britain’s transport infrastructure as part of the government’s “Plan for Change” agenda, which aims to drive economic growth and investment across the country. Her responsibilities will include overseeing the transformation of transport networks and facilitating the development of new roads and railways. Heidi Alexander, the Secretary of State for Transport, expressed her delight at the appointment, stating that she had worked closely with Ms Shanmugalingam and was confident in her exemplary leadership. Secretary Alexander also extended her gratitude to Bernadette Kelly for her dedicated public service.
Sir Chris Wormald, the Cabinet Secretary, congratulated Ms Shanmugalingam, highlighting her valuable experience and impressive track record in delivery as key attributes for leading the DfT during this significant period of infrastructure renewal. Ms Shanmugalingam commented on her appointment, expressing her honour and emphasising the fundamental role of transport in connecting people to opportunities and fostering economic growth. She also conveyed her enthusiasm for continuing to work with the talented team within the DfT to deliver meaningful changes for the public. Her appointment followed a comprehensive external recruitment competition overseen by the independent Civil Service Commission.