Durban-Born Bronek Masojada Elected 698th Lord Mayor of London

Celebration of Achievement: From Durban to London’s Civic Peak

Masojada, originally from Durban and an alumnus of Durban High School (DHS) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), will officially assume office at the City of London’s historic Silent Ceremony on 13 November. His election has inspired widespread celebrations among his former schools, with warm messages of congratulations coming from both institutions.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal described Masojada as an “accomplished alumnus,” and celebrated his milestone by stating, “We congratulate our alumnus Bronek Masojada on his election as the 698th Lord Mayor of the City of London.”

Academic and Professional Journey

Masojada’s path to the City of London began in KwaZulu-Natal. He completed his early schooling at DHS before pursuing Civil Engineering at the then University of Natal (now UKZN). His academic excellence earned him a Rhodes Scholarship to Trinity College, Oxford, where he completed an M.Phil. in Management Studies.

Building on this educational foundation, Masojada embarked on a global business career. He firstly worked at McKinsey & Company before joining specialist insurer Hiscox in 1993. Over 28 years at Hiscox, including two decades as Group Chief Executive, he played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a leading specialist insurance provider with more than 3,500 employees across 35 offices by the time he stepped down in 2021.

Civic Engagement and Community Involvement

In addition to his corporate achievements, Masojada has contributed significantly to London’s civic and charitable sectors. He has served as Alderman for the Ward of Billingsgate since 2019, was Sheriff of the City of London in 2023/24, and chairs the East End Community Foundationan organisation dedicated to improving life chances and employment prospects in East London.

The Role and Significance of the Lord Mayor

The Lord Mayor of London serves as an international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services sector. During his term, Masojada will focus on linking talent and capital with business opportunities, strengthening relationships between investors, trusted institutions, and international partners. Working alongside government, industry and community leaders, he aims to advance economic growth and support the development of emerging industries.

Masojada reflected on the honor of his appointment, stating:

“It is a profound honour to be elected as Lord Mayor of the City of London. I will showcase the many British opportunities, persuade British and international capital to invest in those opportunities, and champion talent, both local and global. Talent is a bedrock on which everything sits. If you have the talent, they will spot the opportunities and attract that capital.”

Historic Links with Durban High School

His election also marks a point of pride for Durban High School, whose foundation noted that Masojada is the second alumnus to reach this distinguished office, following in the footsteps of Sir Gavyn Arthur (class of 1968), who served as Lord Mayor from 2002 to 2003. The school community described Masojada’s success as a “remarkable distinction” and a source of inspiration for future generations of DHS students.

The City of London: Global Financial Influence

Known as the Square Mile, the City of London is one of the world’s major centres for financial and professional services. It is home to 676,000 workers and 24,000 businesses, generating £109 billion in economic output, according to the City of London Corporation. The annual Lord Mayor’s Show, which will be Masojada’s first major public event in office, is scheduled for 14 November and marks an important tradition within the city’s civic calendar.

Looking Forward

Masojada’s appointment as Lord Mayor stands as a testament to the global impact of South African talent and serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders in both business and public service. His leadership is expected to strengthen the City of London’s international profile and foster even greater connections between the UK and partners around the world.