Alderman William Russell took office as the 692nd Lord Mayor of the City of London on 8th November 2019; his Mayoralty was extended due to Covid-19, meaning that he is the first Lord Mayor to serve two consecutive years in office since 1860, finishing in November 2021. He served as a Sheriff of the City of London in 2016-17 and, in that capacity, supported the then Lord Mayor, undertaking numerous visits and official functions. 

His updated Mayoral theme is ‘Global UK: The New Future’ focuses on Culture, Innovation & Trade, in the context of the COVID 19 pandemic and the UK’s exit from the European Union. These two drivers will continue to disrupt markets, whilst presenting opportunities and acting as accelerators of change. We must support businesses through the pandemic crisis, speed up the recovery and seize the global trade opportunities of the new future. More than ever, the City’s future success depends on its global competitiveness. We must build on our international reputation for openness and ensure everyone is welcomed to the City; and through that business in London, in the UK and across the world can thrive.