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New UK Border Agency chief executive is appointed
15 July 2011
The new chief executive of the UK Border Agency was announced today by the Home Office as Rob Whiteman.
Mr Whiteman is currently the managing director of the Local Government Improvement and Development Agency, and has extensive experience of public service. He was chief executive of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham for 5 years, and was previously the deputy chief executive for the London Borough of Lewisham.
Helen Ghosh, the Permanent Secretary at the Home Office, said:
'I am delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Whiteman as the new chief executive for the UK Border Agency. He has an outstanding record of service improvement and leading change in the public sector, and will ensure the UK Border Agency has the direction it needs during the challenges ahead.
'I would also like to thank Jonathan Sedgwick for the excellent job he has done as the interim chief executive.'
Home Secretary Theresa May said:
'This is a hugely important post. Protecting our border effectively is absolutely critical to the work of the Home Office. Rob brings a wealth of experience to the department and I look forward very much to working with him.'
Rob Whiteman said:
I am honoured and excited to be appointed to the UK Border Agency, which carries out such a vital role. I am looking forward to taking up post and meeting staff and managers throughout the agency and the organisations we work with to deliver excellence.'
Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the Local Government Association, said:
'Rob Whiteman has made a very significant contribution to local government through his roles in several leading councils and national work on our behalf. I am sure he will make an equal impact in central government and that his energy will bring success to the UK Border Agency and the Home Office.'
Mr Whiteman will take over from Jonathan Sedgwick, the interim chief executive following Lin Homer's move to the Department for Transport in January. The appointment has been approved by the Prime Minister and by the Home Secretary.