Victoria Smith to lead HR for City of London Corporation from November
The new Executive Director of HR will oversee more than 4,500 staff and continue the corporation’s People Strategy
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The City of London Corporation announced on its news portal that Victoria Smith will become its Executive Director of HR and Chief People Officer. The appointment takes effect in November, and Smith will be responsible for the corporation’s People and HR function, which supports a workforce of more than 4,500 staff.
Background to the appointment
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Smith arrives from St George’s, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals and Health Group, where she held the Group Chief People Officer post. Her career also includes senior HR and transformation roles at the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, as detailed by the corporation’s website.
The corporation’s People Strategy, which outlines plans for workforce development, leadership, and culture, will continue under Smith’s leadership. The strategy is linked to the wider Corporate Plan and a transformation programme aimed at enhancing service delivery across the Square Mile.
Our people are at the heart of everything we do, from supporting the City’s role as global financial hub to delivering excellent services for communities across London and beyond.
Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman
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Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said the new appointment reflects the corporation’s focus on people as a core asset. He added that Smith’s experience in large, complex public‑sector organisations will help build on progress already made in delivering the People Strategy.
In a statement, Smith expressed enthusiasm about returning to the Square Mile. She highlighted her commitment to public service and to strengthening leadership and culture within the corporation, echoing the priorities set out in the People Strategy.
What happens next
Smith will assume her duties in November and will begin a series of meetings with senior managers to align the HR function with the ongoing transformation agenda. The corporation plans to publish a progress update on the People Strategy in early 2027, at which point residents and members can review any changes to service delivery that stem from the new leadership.
Questions this report answers
+When will Victoria Smith start her new role?
Victoria Smith is scheduled to join the City of London Corporation in November. Her start date marks the beginning of her responsibility for the corporation’s People and HR function, overseeing the workforce and implementing the People Strategy.
+How many staff will she be responsible for?
The corporation employs more than 4,500 people, and Smith will lead the People and HR function that supports this entire workforce. Managing such a large staff base is a central part of her role under the People Strategy.
+What experience does Victoria Smith bring to the corporation?
Before the appointment, Smith was Group Chief People Officer at St George’s, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals and Health Group. She also held senior HR and transformation positions at the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, giving her extensive public‑sector experience.
+What did the Policy Chairman say about the appointment?
Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said the corporation’s people are central to its work and praised Smith’s background in leading people, culture and transformation in large public organisations. He said he looks forward to working with her to advance the People Strategy.
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