A former Government communications chief has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Corporate Communications and External Affairs at the City of London Corporation.

Emily Tofield will provide strategic leadership of external and internal communications at the Square Mile’s governing body when she begins her new role in June.

She is currently Executive Director of Communications, Marketing and Advancement at the University of Sussex, a role covering such diverse areas as student recruitment, global engagement and fund-raising.

Emily has previously served as the most senior communications adviser at the Ministry of Justice, Cabinet Office and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

She was previously a senior producer at BBC News, working on programmes including News at 10 and the Andrew Marr Show.

Incoming City of London Corporation Executive Director of Corporate Communications and External Affairs Emily Tofield said:

“The City of London Corporation has impressive ambitions to create a flourishing society and a thriving economy, and it has put in place a radical Climate Action Strategy.

“I look forward to working with Policy Chairman Chris Hayward, Town Clerk and Chief Executive Ian Thomas, and the teams at this exciting time to continue the work to support the City of London’s leading role in economic growth and maintaining the Square Mile’s position as a great place for living, working and visiting.”

The role is currently occupied in an acting capacity by Philip Saunders, the City Corporation’s parliamentary affairs counsel.

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said:

“Emily joins us at an exciting time for the City as we work to boost the Square Mile’s competitiveness as a global financial hub and transform our leisure and cultural offering for visitors, workers and residents.

“Her experience and expertise means she is ideally placed to provide strategic leadership, guiding how we communicate with our internal and external audiences and leverage our visibility in the years ahead.”

City of London Corporation Town Clerk and Chief Executive Ian Thomas said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Emily, who brings with her a wealth of experience as a journalist and a senior communications professional working in the highest echelons of Government and higher education.

“She joins an incredible and dynamic team and will help put us in a great place to face the challenges that lie ahead.”

Notes to editors

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

Tim Fletcher | Media officer – public services
City of London Corporation
07738 862229 | tim.fletcher@cityoflondon.gov.uk