Dhruv Patel CBE has formally been declared as High Sheriff of Greater London on 30 April 2026 at the Royal Courts of Justice, in a ceremony held before Lady Chief Justice.
The occasion drew senior figures from across public life, including former Prime Minister Theresa May and former Lord Mayor of London Nicholas Lyons, underlining its significance within the capital.
Patel, who grew up above his father’s shop in Hackney during the 1980s, brings a deeply personal perspective to one of the country’s oldest civic roles. His early experiences of community life in London have shaped his understanding of policing, opportunity and social cohesion, insights he now intends to apply during his year in office.
A businessman with interests spanning real estate, insurance and retail pharmacy, Patel has also built a strong record in civic and charitable leadership. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours for services to civic leadership and charity, having previously received an OBE in 2018 for voluntary service to the British Hindu community and to social cohesion.
He previously served as chairman of the City Bridge Trust from 2019 to 2021, overseeing the distribution of more than £55 million and supporting the creation of the London Community Response Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The office of High Sheriff, which dates back more than a millennium, now functions as an independent and unpaid role supporting the judiciary and promoting the effective operation of the police, courts and wider criminal justice system.
During his term, Patel will prioritise youth violence prevention and early intervention, particularly in East London. His programme will include engagement with police cadets, schools, community organisations and faith groups, recognising their role in mentoring young people and strengthening community ties.
Reflecting on his appointment, Patel said his upbringing continues to shape his outlook. He emphasised a strong sense of duty to support the justice system and communities across London, adding that he hopes to build on existing efforts to prevent youth violence and strengthen collaboration between communities, faith groups, policing and the courts.
Over the coming year, he is expected to visit courts, prisons, emergency services and grassroots organisations across Greater London, supporting initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for young people and fostering safer, more cohesive communities.
