London CIV statement re Lord Bob Kerslake

London CIV was saddened to hear of the death of its former Chair Lord Bob Kerslake over the weekend. During his extensive career, he held a number of important positions within local government including head of the Civil Service and President of the Local Government Association. Prior to this he had also worked as Chief Executive of the London Borough of Hounslow and Sheffield City Council before becoming permanent secretary at Dept for Communities and Local Government. He was ennobled in 2015 and served as a cross bench peer.

Lord Kerslake was appointed Chair of London CIV in September 2015 shortly after it was formed and remained in this role until succeeded by current Chair Mike Craston in 2021. He was a formidable chair, firm and kind and very in command of his subject. During his six years at London CIV, Lord Kerslake worked alongside three CEOs: Hugh Grover, Mark Hyde-Harrison and Mike O’Donnell providing advice and guidance and was instrumental in the early formation of the organisation.

London CIV offers its sincere condolences to his family and friends.