David Dinsmore to step down as UK Government communications director

David Dinsmore is stepping down from his role as the Permanent Secretary and Director of Communications for the UK Government. His departure, effective September 30, was reached by mutual agreement following discussions with First Secretary of State Louise Haigh.

Dinsmore, a former editor of The Sun, was appointed to lead a major reform program across Whitehall to modernize how the government communicates with citizens and stakeholders. During his tenure, he oversaw the development of a wide-ranging communications strategy and the establishment of a Strategy Unit and a Government Media Unit.

Cabinet Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo praised Dinsmore for his work, stating he did a “brilliant job establishing the strategy, structures and capabilities required for lasting change in Government communications”. Dinsmore noted that the communications function is now transitioning from the strategic design phase into the implementation phase.