Zoë Garbett, the newly elected Mayor of Hackney, has confirmed the first members of her executive team following the Green Party’s historic shift into overall control of the council. This new administration marks a significant change in the borough’s political landscape, with the leadership team now tasked with delivering on election promises centered around housing, safety, and economic inclusion.
Mayor Garbett has retained direct oversight of several high-profile portfolios. Beyond the council’s overall budget and strategic leadership, she will personally lead on community safety, policing, and anti-poverty action. Her remit also includes specific focus on domestic violence and hate crime prevention, signaling a prioritisation of resident protection and social justice within the new administration.
Leadership roles for housing and community safety
Cllr Dylan Law has been appointed as Statutory Deputy Mayor, taking on one of the most critical challenges facing the borough: the housing crisis. Law’s portfolio covers council housing management and repairs, private rented sector regulation, and housing affordability. This appointment places a dedicated lead at the helm of Hackney’s efforts to improve living standards for both social and private tenants.
The administration’s approach to the local environment and urban development will be managed by Cllr Alastair Binnie-Lubbock. As the Cabinet member for Regeneration, Planning, and Inclusive Neighbourhoods, Binnie-Lubbock is expected to oversee how new developments integrate with existing communities while ensuring the borough remains sustainable and accessible.
Cabinet appointments for Hackney local services
The first wave of appointments includes several key councillors who will manage the day-to-day services residents rely on. Cllr Florence Schechter takes over the Finance, Resident Services, and Digital portfolio. This role is central to the council’s internal efficiency and how it interacts with the public through digital platforms and customer service channels.
Support for the borough’s younger residents is divided into specific leadership roles. Cllr Soraya Adejare has been named Cabinet member for Children, Young People, and Early Intervention. This work is supplemented by Cllr Laura-Louise Fairley, who serves as Deputy Cabinet member for SEND Support, focusing specifically on the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Strategic focus on inclusive economy and regeneration
The Green-led cabinet is also placing a heavy emphasis on the local high street and cultural sectors. Cllr Sam Mathys will lead on Culture, Leisure, Nightlife, and Licensing, a role vital to Hackney’s reputation as a cultural hub. Meanwhile, Cllr Rachel Nkiessu-Guifo has been appointed to lead on the Inclusive Economy, Skills, High Streets, and Markets, focusing on supporting local businesses and workforce development.
Addressing the most vulnerable residents remains a priority through the appointment of Cllr Abi Kingston as Deputy Cabinet member for Homelessness Prevention and Temporary Accommodation. This role will work alongside the broader housing team to tackle the root causes of displacement in the borough.
Mayor Garbett stated that her new Cabinet reflects the borough’s diversity and solidarity. She noted that the team was elected on a message of hope and possesses the experience required to implement real change across Hackney’s communities.
These appointments are scheduled to be formally presented at the Council’s Annual Meeting on 28 May. Further positions and specific policy directives are expected to be announced as the new administration begins its full term in office.
Source: Hackney Council
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