Who is Antonia Romeo and why is she tipped to be the next cabinet secretary?

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Rowena Mason Whitehall editorFebruary 12, 2026 at 07:00 AM
Who is Antonia Romeo and why is she tipped to be the next cabinet secretary?

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Antonia Romeo, the current permanent secretary of the Home Office, is a leading candidate to become the next cabinet secretary, following Chris Wormald's departure. While Keir Starmer previously opted for a more traditional choice, Romeo's ambition and outward-facing approach are now seen as potentially desirable qualities. She has impressed key figures like Shabana Mahmood and is considered an outstanding candidate by some. However, her tendency towards self-promotion and social media presence have drawn criticism from traditionalists within the civil service. Despite some reservations, Romeo's appointment is considered the most likely option, as Starmer seeks someone to revitalize Whitehall. Her career has followed a conventional path, including roles at Oliver Wyman and various government departments.

Keywords

antonia romeo 100% cabinet secretary 90% civil servant 80% whitehall 70% permanent secretary 60% keir starmer 60% civil service 50% home office 50% chris wormald 40%

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