Antonia Romeo is emerging as a key figure in the UK government’s shuffle, potentially stepping into the role of cabinet secretary following the departure of Chris Wormald. Known for her bold approach and innovative thinking, Romeo has garnered attention from both allies and critics within the civil service. Her potential appointment comes as Labour leader Keir Starmer seeks to revitalise Whitehall amidst ongoing challenges.
A Unique Profile in Whitehall
Antonia Romeo is anything but a conventional civil servant. Those who have collaborated with her highlight her charisma and ambition, alongside a knack for self-promotion that has both supporters and detractors. Previously shortlisted for the cabinet secretary position, she lost out to the more traditional choice of Chris Wormald. However, with Wormald’s exit, insiders suggest that Romeo is once again at the forefront of candidates being considered for the top civil service role.
Whitehall sources indicate that while she is the leading option, her appointment isn’t guaranteed, as Number 10 continues to deliberate on its priorities. One senior colleague remarked, “She’s clearly an outstanding candidate and would be a good choice for Starmer… she’s full of ideas,” reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding her potential ascent.
The Balancing Act of Public Relations
Romeo’s willingness to engage with the media and public has drawn mixed reactions. Critics within the civil service have expressed concerns about her frequent social media activity, particularly during sensitive times. For instance, while the court service faced mounting issues, her posts about festive decorations at the Ministry of Justice raised eyebrows among traditionalists, who deemed such self-promotion inappropriate.
Yet, this approachability may be precisely what Starmer desires as he aims to inject new life into a civil service he describes as a “tepid bath of managed decline.” Her ability to network effectively and foster connections within the civil service contrasts sharply with the usual reticence seen among permanent secretaries.
A Career of Distinction
Romeo’s career trajectory has been notably conventional, marked by prestigious education at Westminster School and Oxford University, followed by a brief period in management consulting before entering the civil service. Her rise through the ranks has been steady, with key roles including permanent secretary at the Department for International Development and the Ministry of Justice, complemented by her time as consul general in New York.
During her tenure abroad, she was responsible for promoting UK trade and hosted high-profile events attended by celebrities such as Calvin Klein and Anna Wintour. While her spending during this time drew criticism, a Cabinet Office investigation cleared her of wrongdoing. Respected figures, such as Dave Penman, head of the FDA union, defended her, suggesting that the scrutiny she faced carried a “whiff of misogyny,” arguing that her role necessitated a focus on creative industries.
Advocating for Change and Respect
While at the Ministry of Justice, Romeo gained recognition for her advocacy of professional treatment within the civil service, notably addressing concerns regarding Dominic Raab’s conduct. Her commitment to equality and inclusion has earned her the title of Whitehall’s “queen of woke,” highlighting her efforts as a civil service gender inclusion champion.
In a leadership lecture delivered in 2022, she emphasised that effective leadership is fundamentally about fostering an environment where individuals can thrive. “At its heart, leadership is about people and creating the conditions for them to thrive,” she stated. Her vision for leadership prioritises talent development, meaningful progression, and a culture of purpose, aligning well with Starmer’s objective to “rewire” the civil service.
Why it Matters
Antonia Romeo’s potential elevation to cabinet secretary represents not just a shift in personnel but a potential pivot in the culture of the civil service itself. As the Labour government seeks to instil a sense of purpose and dynamism within Whitehall, her blend of warmth and decisiveness could play a crucial role in shaping the future of governance in the UK. Romeo stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, embodying the change that may be necessary to meet the challenges ahead. Her appointment could signal a new era in civil service leadership, one that values both effectiveness and a human touch.
