Leader of the Council and cabinet members

Councillor Sarah King became Leader of Southwark Council in July 2025. She is the first woman Leader of Southwark Council since 2002, and previously served as Cabinet Member for Council Homes. She has been a councillor since 2010 and is a ward councillor for Champion Hill.

The Leader of the Council sets the overall vision, direction and top priorities for the council. She represents the council in the community and negotiations with regional and national organisations. The leader appoints members of the cabinet and can change cabinet member portfolios during the year.

Councillor King has particular responsibility for:

• setting the political and strategic direction for the council
• Southwark 2030 and the Council Delivery Plan
• communications, campaigns and public affairs
• emergency planning and business continuity
• strategic partnerships and relationships with government, the Mayor of London, City Hall
• transport for London and major anchor organisations within the borough
• performance management of the cabinet and deputy cabinet members

All executive functions not allocated to a portfolio will be the responsibility of, or delegated by, the Leader.