Prime Highlights-
- Cat Little brings experience from the Cabinet Office, HM Treasury and Ministry of Defence.
- Little will continue her current role until a successor is appointed.
Key Facts-
- Cat Little named new Permanent Secretary for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.
- Appointment follows internal recruitment led by the independent First Civil Service Commissioner.
Background-
Cat Little takes on the role of new Permanent Secretary for the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, following approval from the Prime Minister and appointment by the Cabinet Secretary. Little currently serves as Permanent Secretary at the Cabinet Office and Civil Service Chief Operating Officer.
She has previously held the role of Second Permanent Secretary at HM Treasury and served in senior positions at the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Defence. The appointment follows an internal recruitment exercise chaired by the independent First Civil Service Commissioner.
Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Jonathan Reynolds said the department’s work remains vital to driving growth across the country, adding that Little brings the experience needed to help deliver on that goal. He also thanked Amanda Brooks for her leadership over recent months, praising her counsel, professionalism and service to the department.
Cabinet Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo said Little’s track record at the Cabinet Office, HM Treasury and the Ministry of Defence, combined with her commercial experience, makes her well suited to lead the department’s growth agenda. She also acknowledged Brooks for guiding the department during the interim period.
Little said she is excited to join the department at a significant time, expressing eagerness to work with the Secretary of State, ministers and the wider team to drive growth and create jobs nationwide. A recruitment process is now underway to find her successor, with Little continuing in her current role until the transition is complete.
