The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of London: A Global Ambassador for UK Finance and History

The office of the Lord Mayor of London is one of the world's oldest continuously elected civic positions, a title dating back to the late 12th century. It is crucial to understand that the Lord Mayor is the head of the City of London Corporation—the historic "Square Mile"—and is an entirely separate figure from the more widely-known, directly-elected Mayor of London who governs the broader area of Greater London.

The Modern Mandate: Champion of Financial Services

While rooted in centuries of tradition, the Lord Mayor's role today is unequivocally outward-facing and commercial. The principal duty is to serve as a global ambassador for the United Kingdom's financial and professional services sector. This involves an intense year of international travel, hosting foreign dignitaries, heads of state, and business leaders on behalf of the City and the UK government. The individual holding the office is regarded as the champion of the entire UK-based financial sector, representing its interests on the world stage.

An Ancient Office: Key Facts and Ceremonies

The Lord Mayor is non-affiliated politically and serves a single, one-year term. This rapid turnover ensures a fresh, high-energy approach to their ambassadorial duties each year. Within the boundaries of the City of London, the Lord Mayor is accorded precedence over all individuals except the reigning monarch.

Election, Ceremony, and Residence

The election takes place annually at Common Hall, where the City's Liverymen cast their votes. The new Lord Mayor takes office in November at a traditional event known as the Silent Ceremony. The following day, the spectacular Lord Mayor's Show takes place—an 800-year-old procession that travels to the Royal Courts of Justice where the new officeholder swears allegiance to the Sovereign.

• Current Holder: Alderman Alastair King serves as the 696th Lord Mayor for 2024–2025.
• Official Residence: The magnificent Mansion House in the City of London.
• Term Length: Strictly one year.
• Unique Title: The style is "The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of London."

The Current Mayoralty: Alastair King's Vision

As the head of the City of London Corporation, the current Lord Mayor champions a specific theme during their year in office. Alderman Alastair King has focused on his 'Growth Unleashed' theme, promoting a resilient and "risk-ready City." This focus includes challenging industry to embrace responsible risk-taking, driving the adoption of new technologies, and mobilising private capital to support early-stage companies.

The Lord Mayor of London remains a powerful symbol of London's deep commercial heritage and its ongoing commitment to global trade and investment, serving not only the City but the economic interests of the entire United Kingdom.