Transport Gets New Top Boss: Jo Shanmugalingam Steps In
The Department for Transport (DfT) has bagged a heavyweight with Jo Shanmugalingam’s appointment as the new Second Permanent Secretary. The move, approved by the Prime Minister, sees Jo move from her role as Director General at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to the transport hot seat at the end of May.
Jo’s Mission: Leading Big Transport Challenges
Jo clinched the post after a fierce competition and will steer major DfT projects, including the all-important decarbonisation drive. Currently, she heads up Science, Innovation and Growth at DSIT, where since 2019 she’s shaped government R&D spending and overseen shareholder interests in big firms like National Air Traffic Services Ltd, Post Office Ltd, and Ordnance Survey.
Cross-Government Star with Transport Ties
- Jo brings a broad government portfolio: from air traffic control and industrial strategy to space launch and regulation.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper praised the new recruit, saying:
“I am delighted to be welcoming Jo, who brings a wealth of experience from across government departments. I look forward to working with her to improve transport right across the country, including leading on delivering some of our top ambitions like decarbonisation and levelling up.”
Permanent Secretary Bernadette Kelly added:
“Jo’s appointment is great news for the department – she has demonstrated outstanding skills in leading the government’s work on science and innovation. In this new role, I know she will bring momentum and energy during what is an exciting time for DfT.”
Jo herself stated:
“I’m proud to be appointed Second Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport and to be working with teams who have been delivering important work to keep the country moving during challenging times.”
“It will be a privilege to help drive forward the government’s work to decarbonise and level up transport for the travelling public.”
