Hartnett becomes permanent secretary for tax

Dave Hartnett is to become the new permanent secretary for tax, HM Revenue & Customs said today.

Hartnett, who is well-known in the tax world, will not however become the new chief executive of the body. That role will be taken by Lesley Strathie, the head of Jobcentre Plus.

Both will work under Mike Clasper, the chairman and former boss at BAA.

Strathie is currently second permanent secretary at the Department for Work and Pensions.

Hartnett said: 'I am looking forward to working with Lesley in my new role within HMRC. It is a great department with dedicated staff and we are all determined to provide an even better service to all our customer.'

The chancellor Alistair Darling said: 'This chief executive role at HMRC is one of the biggest delivery jobs in Government and Lesley Strathie is very experienced in delivering quality customer services. She has a first rate proven record in the public sector.'

Clasper said: 'I am delighted to welcome Lesley Strathie to HMRC. She is an inspirational leader and has an excellent track record for good management and effective delivery and I am looking forward to working with her in the future.

'I know that Dave Hartnett will do a fantastic job as our new permanent secretary for tax. He will be able to use his extensive professional skills to strengthen the professionalism of the department and continue to improve HMRC's performance in dealing with the tax affairs of our customers.'

Strathie said: 'This is a great opportunity for me to work in one of Whitehall's most important departments. I am looking forward to working with Mike, Dave and all of HMRC's people who play such an important role in the life of the country.'

Further Reading:

Two women in race for HMRC job