Who is Nin Pandit, the Principal Private Secretary Reportedly Leaving Downing Street?

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing to replace his Principal Private Secretary (PPS), Nin Pandit, after less than a year in the role. Pandit, who managed the Prime Minister’s private office and coordinated work across Number 10, had only been in the position for ten months.

Career in Government and Policy

Nin Pandit has built a career in health policy and government advisory roles. Before her appointment as PPS, she served as chief of staff and lead policy advisor to the CEO of NHS England. She also worked with the Mayor of London’s health improvement board, where she focused on transparency and information sharing in public health.

Her experience in Downing Street goes back further. Pandit previously led the Number 10 Delivery Unit’s health and social care team, shaping policies connected to the National Health Service and social reforms.

In November 2022, she became Director of the Downing Street Policy Unit, a key position that influenced strategy and delivery across government departments. Her promotion to PPS in October 2024 was seen as recognition of her strong background in health and policy delivery.

Short Tenure Under Keir Starmer

Despite her expertise, Pandit’s time as Principal Private Secretary has been short. Reports suggest she is the third senior aide to leave Keir Starmer’s inner team, following the earlier exits of Sue Gray and Matthew Doyle.

The departure has raised questions about stability inside Number 10, as Pandit was considered a key figure in running the Prime Minister’s day-to-day operations.

What Happens Next?

Number 10 has not yet confirmed Pandit’s exit, and no successor has been officially named. However, if confirmed, her departure would mark another significant change in the Prime Minister’s team as Labour continues its first year in government.