New Chief Executive appointed to Electoral Commission

The Electoral Commission has today announced that Shaun McNally CBE has been appointed the new Chief Executive of the organisation and will take up the post in April 2022.

With more than 35 years working within the UK justice system, previously at HM Courts and Tribunals Service and as Chief Executive of the Legal Aid Agency, Shaun brings considerable experience of leading complex, high profile organisations.  

Shaun joins the Commission from the Ministry of Justice, where he currently leads on the Department’s planning, preparation and response to major incidents, including the end of the EU transition period and Covid-19.

Shaun will join the Commission ahead of the May elections and at the outset of a new corporate plan for the organisation. Over the five year span of the plan, the Commission will focus on increasing voter engagement and confidence; supporting the resilience of electoral administration and the participation of political parties and campaigners; and ensuring the transparency of political campaigning.

The appointment concludes a comprehensive and competitive recruitment process, launched this summer following current Chief Executive, Bob Posner’s decision to retire.

John Pullinger, Chair of the Electoral Commission said:

“I am pleased to announce that Shaun will be leading the Commission and bringing his broad experience of stakeholder engagement, operational planning and a digital-first approach. Working with voters, parties, campaigners and electoral administrators, he will oversee the Commission’s role in providing transparency and confidence in our democratic processes.

“The Board looks forward to working closely with Shaun on the Commission’s priorities and supporting the delivery of well-run elections and referendums.”

Shaun McNally CBE commented:

“It is a genuine privilege to be taking up this role at the Electoral Commission. There is nothing more important than making sure the public has confidence in the processes and systems that underpin our democracy. I look forward to building relationships with all those who play a part in our electoral system, and to leading the Commission’s dedicated and talented team at such a crucial time.”

Ends

For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or [email protected]

Notes to editors

  • The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:
    • enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible
    • regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches
    • using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency
  • The Commission was set up in 2000 and reports to the UK, Scottish and Welsh parliaments.