Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed Bridget Phillipson as the Labour Party’s chair.
A Labour spokesperson said Phillipson, who also serves as minister for women and equalities, will work closely with deputy leader Lucy Powell to modernise the party ahead of the next general election.
Phillipson and Powell competed against each other for the deputy leadership last year, following a contest prompted by Angela Rayner’s resignation; Powell ultimately won with 54 % of the party membership’s support.
Phillipson had previously served as education secretary under Sir Keir Starmer, but that position was also given to Powell by Burnham when he formed his cabinet last week.
Announcing Phillipson’s appointment, Burnham said she would help the party concentrate on preparing for a new digital campaigning environment.
“She will play a vital role in ensuring the Labour Party is match‑fit for the next election,” he said.
She replaces Anna Turley, who was appointed as a Home Office minister last week.
The leadership team, which also includes chief whip Anneliese Midgley, is expected to concentrate on cultural reform and building the infrastructure and policy platform required for the 2029 election, the latest date a general election can be held.
Posting on X, Phillipson said she was honoured to take on the role.
“I joined our party as a teenager and saw first hand the difference a Labour government makes,” she said.
“I’ll work with members to build an election‑winning machine that defeats Reform UK for good and secures a second Labour term.”
Welcoming her, Powell said, “Working together, we will ensure the party continues to lead the way in campaigning, with the strongest ground operation in British politics as we prepare for the next general election.”