News story: New Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport

Bernadette Kelly has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. This follows Philip Rutnam’s recent move to the Home Office which was announced in February. The appointment has been made by the Cabinet Secretary with the approval of the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Transport.

The Cabinet Secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, said:

I would like to congratulate Bernadette on her appointment. Bernadette has an excellent track record, having worked in a number of departments across government including most recently at the Department for Transport. She will bring that experience together with her strong leadership skills to her new role and I look forward to working with her on the challenges ahead.

The Secretary of State for Transport, The Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP said:

I’m very pleased that Bernadette will be the new Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. Her knowledge and experience of the department mean she is very well placed to make an excellent start in her new role and I look forward to continuing to work with her.

Bernadette Kelly, said:

I am delighted to be appointed as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. DfT is a great Department and I have hugely enjoyed working here in rail. It is an honour to be asked to lead the department and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead.