Bronek Masojada, an old boy of Durban High School (DHS), has been elected as the 698th Lord Mayor of the City of London. He will head the City of London Corporation, the governing body of the Square Mile, and serve as an international ambassador for the UK's financial and professional services sector. Masojada's election marks a significant milestone in his career, which has seen him rise through various roles in the City of London.
Masojada was elected Alderman for Billingsgate ward in 2019 and served as Sheriff of the City of London in 2023 and 2024. The Lord Mayor is chosen from among the 25 Aldermen and Alderwomen of the Square Mile who have also served as Sheriff, a post dating back to the Middle Ages. This experience has prepared Masojada for his new role, in which he will act as a representative of the City of London and promote its interests globally.
Masojada succeeds Lord Mayor Dame Susan Langley and will take office at the Silent Ceremony at the Guildhall on November 13. The ceremony is a traditional event in which the incoming Lord Mayor takes an oath of office in total silence, except for a short declaration. The next day, Masojada will participate in the annual Lord Mayor's Show, his first public engagement in office.
The Lord Mayor of London is distinct from the Mayor of London, a post currently held by Sadiq Khan, who governs the wider city and its 32 boroughs. Masojada's role will focus on promoting the City of London's interests and showcasing its strengths as a global financial hub. He described his appointment as a "profound honour" and emphasized his commitment to championing talent and attracting investment to the UK.
The City of London Corporation said that, at a time of global uncertainty, the Mayoralty would highlight the UK's enduring strengths and its role as a trusted partner that connects markets, nations, and ideas. The Corporation expects Masojada to use his position to build partnerships and turn ideas into action, working with government, business, and international partners.
Durban High School, Masojada's alma mater, congratulated him on his appointment, saying that his journey from Durban to the City of London was a source of pride for the school's community. Masojada is the second DHS old boy to become Lord Mayor, following Sir Gavyn Arthur, who held the office from 2002 to 2003.
As Lord Mayor, Masojada will play a key role in promoting the UK's financial and professional services sector, and in showcasing the country's opportunities for investment and growth. His appointment is seen as a significant achievement for the City of London and for the UK as a whole, and is expected to strengthen the city's position as a global financial hub.
Key points
- Bronek Masojada, a Durban High School old boy, has been elected as the 698th Lord Mayor of the City of London.
- Masojada will head the City of London Corporation and serve as an international ambassador for the UK's financial and professional services sector.
- The Lord Mayor's role is distinct from that of the Mayor of London, with a focus on promoting the City of London's interests and strengths as a global financial hub.
