Chris Hayward re-elected as City Corporation’s Policy Chairman for final year
Chris Hayward has been re-elected unopposed for a final year as Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Policy and Resources Committee, pledging to build on the Square Mile’s economic momentum and strengthen its status as a world-leading destination.
As the Chairman of the Committee, the City Corporation’s primary decision-making body, Chris Hayward has led the delivery of Destination City, the growth strategy of the Square Mile. This ambitious programme was a contributing factor to London recently winning the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize which recognises cities that demonstrate exceptional achievements in creating liveable, vibrant and sustainable urban environments.
Under his leadership the Square Mile has experienced a 25% increase in workers and self-employed individuals since before the pandemic. It now supports 676,000 workers, 24,000 businesses, and welcomes 21 million visitors each year.
His re-election comes at a pivotal moment for the Square Mile. As the UK seeks to attract greater international investment amidst rising geopolitical tensions. During his tenure the City of London Corporation has worked closely with Government, industry, and regulators to launch the Office for Investment: Financial Services (OfI:FS) a strategic one-stop shop for international financial services investors, offering joined-up, tailored support from market entry to expansion. It aims to create a unified, investor-centric and digitally enabled UK model to attract and retain financial services investment.
At the same time, major projects to drive growth and create jobs have been advancing. This can be seen with projects like the London Museum redevelopment; Finsbury Circus, London’s largest public open space; and Salisbury Square, a new court complex at the heart of the City. These projects will add to the greening of public spaces and will aim to attract more visitors, all within one Square Mile.
Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, said:
“In my final year as leader of the City Corporation it is more vital than ever to double down on the City’s contribution as the engine of growth for the UK economy and attract investment not only into the Square Mile but also across the country
“At a time of rising geopolitical tensions, the City remains steadfast as an oasis of stability. We contribute £110 billion in economic output and welcome 21 million visitors each year. We also boast one of the UK’s youngest and most productive workforces, characterised by high skill levels and international diversity, with 49% of workers coming from overseas.
“Going forward I want to continue to attract businesses, workers, and visitors to ensure the City of London continues to play a leading role in driving growth for London’s and the UK’s economy.”
Notes to Editors:
· Chris Hayward has served as Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation since 2021.
· The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
· The City of London Corporation governs the Square Mile — home to 676,000 workers, 24,000 businesses and 21 million annual visitors.
Destination City is the City Corporation’s growth strategy which aims to strengthen the Square Mile’s impact as a magnetic and inclusive destination that drives the UK’s economic success by attracting high-value firms and highly skilled people.