Equalities minister Bridget Phillipson has been appointed Labour Party chairwoman by Andy Burnham, who has tasked her with driving a “culture change” within the party.
Mr Burnham emphasised that Ms Phillipson would ensure Labour remains focused on “delivering for working people”.
Her remit includes preparing the party for the next general election, modernising its digital campaigning and establishing the organisation, infrastructure and policy platform vital for electoral success.
Announcing her appointment, Mr Burnham said: “Bridget Phillipson, as party chair, will help drive the culture change our party needs, working alongside Lucy Powell and me to ensure Labour remains focused on delivering for working people.
“She will play a vital role in ensuring the Labour Party is match fit for the next election.
“I am delighted Bridget has accepted this role and I look forward to working closely with her on this vital task.”
Ms Phillipson, who served as Education Secretary under Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership, said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Labour Party chair, working alongside our Prime Minister to put our Labour values and the voices of our movement at the heart of government.
“By uniting together, we will bring hope back to communities and strengthen British society against those working to divide us.
“With the change Labour in government is delivering and will deliver, we have the chance to write a new chapter for our country, one which brings justice, opportunity and fairness for working people, one which brings back hope that tomorrow can be better than today.”
During her time as education secretary, Phillipson oversaw initiatives including the expansion of free breakfast clubs, changes to school inspections and efforts to tackle rising absenteeism. The Sunderland MP has kept her position as equalities minister while handing the education brief to Lucy Powell.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell said: “I look forward to working with Bridget as we build on the culture change in the party that Andy has made a priority.
“Working together, we will ensure the party continues to lead the way in campaigning, with the strongest ground operation in British politics as we prepare for the next general election.”
