Matthew Rycroft Takes the Helm at the Home Office
Matthew Rycroft CBE has been named the new Permanent Secretary at the Home Office. He’s moving over from his post as Permanent Secretary at the Department for International Development (DFID).
Top Brass Endorse Appointment
The Cabinet Secretary, with the thumbs-up from Prime Minister and Home Secretary, has officially appointed Rycroft to replace Sir Philip Rutnam, who quit last month amid turmoil.
“I am delighted to have been asked to become the new Permanent Secretary at the Home Office,” said Rycroft. “The Home Office has a hugely important agenda with responsibility to keep our citizens safe and the country secure.”
“I look forward to working with all Home Office staff to support Ministers at this crucial time for our country. At the same time, I am sorry to say goodbye to my DFID colleagues and wish them well for the future.”
High Praise from Home Secretary Priti Patel
Home Secretary Priti Patel welcomed the news: “Matthew brings a wealth of leadership experience and a strong understanding of the security challenges we face. I very much look forward to working alongside Matthew as we deliver the people’s priorities.”
She also thanked Shona Dunn for her professionalism and service as Acting Permanent Secretary and said she looks forward to working with her as Second Permanent Secretary.
Heads of Civil Service Back the Move
Sir Mark Sedwill, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service, called Rycroft “an exceptional public servant who embodies the best the Civil Service offers. With extensive diplomatic service experience and a solid record of delivering Government priorities, he will provide inspirational leadership at a critical time.”
Nick Dyer, currently Director General of Economic Development and International at DFID, will step in as Acting Permanent Secretary at DFID while permanent recruitment plans get underway.
