First elected to the Assembly at the inaugural City Hall elections in 2000, Mrs Shawcross represented Lambeth and Southwark for 16 years before stepping down at this month’s election.
Prior to her time at City Hall she served on Croydon council between 1994 and 2000, going on to become its leader in 1997. Her work in local government was recognised in 2002 when she was awarded a CBE.
During Ken Livingstone’s Mayoralty she served as chair of the capital’s fire authority and more recently has served as chair of the Assembly’s transport committee, a role in which she routinely tackled Transport for London bosses on the accessibility and affordability of the capital’s transport network.
Widely admired across the political spectrum and enjoying strong relationships with key stakeholder groups, Shawcross will play a pivotal role in delivering the Mayor’s pledge to hold down fares over the mayoral term.
In an email announcing her appointment to City Hall staff and Assembly Members, Mr Khan said: “She has unrivalled knowledge of London’s transport issues through her work over 16 years as a London Assembly member.
“I know this extensive experience makes her the right person to help deliver my plans for a modern, accessible and affordable transport network for everyone.”
The new mayor has also announced the appointment of Lord Andrew Adonis as Chair of Crossrail 2 Limited, the project company set up under former mayor Boris Johnson to further develop and deliver the capital’s next major rail project.
Away from the transport field, Mr Khan has named Labour London Assembly member as Fiona Twycross as Chair of the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority and said he intends to appoint Sophie Linden, Deputy Leader Hackney Council, as Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime.
Former Islington councillor James Murray has also been confirmed as deputy mayor for housing.
Announcing his appointment, Mr Khan said: “He comes to City Hall with a strong track record of success, having championed the delivery of innovative housing solutions for years.
“I know he will be a huge asset to the team as we work towards building the thousands of affordable homes London needs.”
