Election of Sheriffs for 2025-26

Pictured above: Robert Hughes-Penney with his consort Elspeth Hughes-Penney (right) along with Keith Bottomley and his consort Kevin Bradford

Liverymen of the companies of the City of London, who have been clothed since 31st May 2024, enjoy the privilege of electing two fit and proper Sheriff candidates to serve for the ensuing year as Sheriffs of the City of London, commencing 26th September 2025.

The election took place on Midsummer’s Day 24th June, as it always does, and the event is of significant importance as Liverymen exercise their right to take part, along with Mayoral elections, in the governance of the City of London.

The candidates offered each year consist of an Alderman candidate who is supported by the Court of Aldermen. This may seem like undermining democracy however Liverymen still have to confirm the choice, and the Aldermanic candidate will have been carefully chosen by an independent review panel, to ensure that they are qualified and capable to later be elected to Lord Mayor. Members will know that this is crucial because the Lord Mayor becomes the global ambassador for the City’s financial and professional services. These collective businesses and professions based in the City contribute a significant amount towards the national tax collection budget. This year Alderman Robert Hughes-Penney, an Investment Director with Rathbones plc, was elected.

The non-Aldermanic or ‘lay’ Sheriff is largely the Livery’s choice, any Liveryman who wishes to offer themselves may stand, however a well-known and respected profile is sought, and this year Deputy Keith Bottomley was elected unopposed as second Sheriff. Deputy Keith is deputy chair of the all-important Policy & Resources Committee of the City, the Deputy Leader of the Court of Common Council as well as many other roles.

Liverymen are encouraged to attend Common Hall twice annually in June and September to cast their two votes. The Company’s Livery Committee now organises a post Common Hall luncheon nearby which may prove popular with those members and their partners wishing to avoid late night events. Do come and join us, guests are welcome.