Kelly is new permanent secretary at Department for Transport

Bernadette Kelly has been appointed as the new permanent secretary at the Department for Transport. This follows Philip Rutnam’s move to the Home Office, which was announced in February. 

The appointment has been made by the Cabinet Secretary with the approval of the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Transport.

The Cabinet Secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, said: “Bernadette has an excellent track record, having worked in a number of departments across government including most recently at the Department for Transport. She will bring that experience together with her strong leadership skills to her new role and I look forward to working with her on the challenges ahead.”

Transport secretary Chris Grayling MP said: “Her knowledge and experience of the department mean she is very well placed to make an excellent start in her new role and I look forward to continuing to work with her.”