The City of London Corporation has elected 31-year-old Dhruv Patel as the Chairman of Community & Children’s Services. The Common Councillor has represented the Square Mile ward of Aldgate for the past two years.

Born in the City and raised in east London, Dhruv Patel comes from a finance background, previously holding positions at Barclays Capital, and as a private investor he has been involved in property development and insurance underwriting. Dhruv set up the City Hindus Network, in 2005, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes networking, education and, charity fundraising among Hindu professionals.

He succeeds William Dove OBE as the Chairman of the committee that looks after a whole range of local authority functions including, schools, adoption and fostering, safeguarding, housing and careers guidance in the Square Mile.

Speaking after his election, Dhruv Patel said: “I am deeply honoured to be elected as Chairman and look forward to serving the City Corporation and its residents, as well as those who work in the Square Mile. As the first City of London Corporation Chairman from my ethnic minority background, I am keenly interested in diversity and access for talent. During my term I would like to encourage our apprenticeship programmes for City firms, helping them to develop talent from across London. And also, as the City Corporation is a key affordable-housing provider, I would like to ensure we continue to play an important role in addressing the capital’s escalating housing crisis.’

“I am privileged to take over the chairmanship from Billy Dove OBE who has been a great mentor and fantastic support. I hope that my election will encourage further diversity across the organisation and inspire others to follow my lead.”

Lord Mayor of the City of London Alan Yarrow, said: “Community and Children’s Services plays a valuable role in the lives of City residents, visitors and workers. I’d like to congratulate Dhruv in his new role, and I’m confident his expertise and commitment will help to build on the great work already delivered by this department.”