Image: from Lady Mayor of the City of London X @citylordmayor
By Benjamin Foster | Staff Writer with Agencies
History was made in the City of London as Dame Susan Langley officially took office as the first-ever Lady Mayor of London, more than 800 years after the creation of the mayoralty. The appointment marks a significant milestone in one of Britain’s oldest civic traditions, combining centuries of heritage with a powerful message of modern progress.
Dame Susan, who becomes the 697th holder of the title, was formally installed during the traditional Silent Ceremony at the Great Hall of the Guildhall. Although two women previously held the role of Lord Mayor, Dame Susan is the first to carry the distinct title of Lady Mayor of London.
The following day, Londoners gathered to witness the iconic Lady Mayor’s Show, a vibrant three-mile-long procession that began at Mansion House, the official residence of the mayor. Waving her hat from the ornate state coach, Dame Susan travelled to the Royal Courts of Justice, where she swore an oath of allegiance to the crown.
The annual Lord Mayor’s Show, now in its 808th year, is the world’s oldest civic procession, originating in 1215 when King John granted the City of London the right to elect its own mayor. The royal charter required each newly elected mayor to journey to Westminster to pledge loyalty to the sovereign, a tradition that continues to this day.
I have taken office as the 697th Lord Mayor of the City of London – the first to use the title Lady Mayor.
My focus this year:
– Make Mansion House the embassy for financial services
– Unsquare the Square Mile to attract the best talent
– Champion access to opportunities for all… pic.twitter.com/m1A3a43cQ0— Lady Mayor of the City of London (@citylordmayor) November 7, 2025
This year’s spectacle featured more than 7,000 participants, including military representatives, marching bands, livery companies, and youth groups from around the world. Large sections of the City of London were closed to traffic as crowds lined the streets to celebrate the occasion.
During her one-year term, Dame Susan will act as an international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services sector, promoting London’s position as a global hub for business, trade, and innovation. She will also collaborate closely with the Mayor of London on initiatives benefiting the city’s economy and communities.
A distinguished business leader, Dame Susan currently serves as chairwoman of insurance broker Gallagher UK and previously held senior roles in both the financial and public sectors. She was awarded a damehood in 2023 for her contributions to financial services and public life.
Born in East London, Dame Susan has long been a champion for gender equality in business. She co-founded the Women’s Business Council, which advises the UK Government on strategies to enhance women’s participation in the economy.
Her appointment as Lady Mayor marks not only a historic moment for the City of London but also a powerful symbol of progress and inclusion, a fitting reflection of a city that continues to honor its ancient traditions while embracing a modern, forward-looking vision for the future.
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