Jeremy Pocklington has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), following approval from the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary. He steps into the role at a time when the UK’s defence priorities are being reshaped to meet modern challenges at home and abroad.
Experienced civil servant takes on key defence role
Before this appointment, Pocklington served as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. He will now succeed David Williams, who is leaving the Civil Service after more than three decades of dedicated service. The government is expected to announce plans soon for selecting Pocklington’s replacement in the energy department.
Pocklington’s career in the civil service spans leadership roles in major departments, including the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. His broad experience in policy delivery and organisational reform positions him well to lead the MoD during a period of strategic transformation.
Defence Secretary welcomes new leadership
Defence Secretary John Healey MP expressed confidence in Pocklington’s ability to guide the ministry through the government’s Strategic Defence Review, which aims to modernise Britain’s armed forces and strengthen national security. He highlighted that strong leadership at the MoD is vital to ensuring the UK remains secure at home and effective internationally.
Healey also extended gratitude to outgoing Permanent Secretary David Williams, praising his “dedication to defence” and his commitment to putting people at the centre of the department’s work. Williams served for over four years in the role and 35 years in public service, leaving behind a record of leadership that helped implement government priorities and support the defence community.
Cabinet Secretary praises experience and commitment
Sir Chris Wormald, the Cabinet Secretary, congratulated Pocklington on his new appointment, noting that his leadership experience across key departments makes him “ideally placed” to guide the Ministry of Defence at a crucial moment. Wormald also paid tribute to David Williams for his “excellent leadership” and long-standing dedication to public service, which he described as an example of integrity and professionalism.
Jeremy Pocklington on joining the Ministry of Defence
Speaking about his new role, Jeremy Pocklington called it a “great privilege” to serve as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence. He said he looked forward to collaborating with the Defence Secretary, ministers, and both military and civilian staff to deliver Defence Reform and support the implementation of the Strategic Defence Review.
Pocklington acknowledged the challenges and opportunities that come with this position, stating that it is an important moment for the UK’s defence community as the government seeks to modernise capabilities and strengthen resilience. He also thanked his colleagues at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for their “brilliant work” over the past three years, highlighting the department’s collective achievements in advancing Britain’s energy transition.
Appointment follows rigorous selection process
The appointment was made following an open competition overseen by the independent First Civil Service Commissioner. The process ensured a fair and transparent selection based on merit and leadership experience. Pocklington’s transition to the MoD reflects the government’s focus on experienced, reform-minded leadership at the top of major departments.
A new chapter for UK defence leadership
As the Ministry of Defence embarks on its Strategic Defence Review, Jeremy Pocklington’s leadership is expected to play a central role in shaping how the UK’s military and defence institutions adapt to new global and technological realities. His appointment signals continuity in professional civil service leadership and a renewed focus on strengthening the country’s security framework for the future.
With his proven record in government and commitment to public service, Pocklington’s move to the Ministry of Defence marks an important step in ensuring Britain remains prepared, capable, and secure in the years ahead.