Kingston Council has appointed Victoria Statham as the borough's new director of governance & law (monitoring officer).

Statham is a highly experienced lawyer and joins the Royal Borough of Kingston from Elmbridge Borough Council, where she has been operating as the head of legal and governance and monitoring officer since March 2022.

She brings a wealth of experience leading multiple functions including legal, procurement, internal audit, and democratic services, as well as her time as Principal Solicitor at both Spelthorne and Reigate & Banstead Borough Councils.  

Kingston Council's executive director for corporate services and S151 officer, Sue Cuerden, welcomed Victoria to the role, saying: "I am delighted that Victoria is joining the team as Kingston's new Director of Governance & Law.

"The extensive local government experience and professional expertise she brings to the role will help build on the fantastic work taking place across the council to provide essential services and support for the residents and communities of Kingston borough.

On accepting her new role, Statham said: "Kingston has always been a special place to me, whether shopping, meeting friends or enjoying the sights.

"I am excited to bring my passion for Kingston and my expertise to this new role. I am looking forward to working with the team and councillors to deliver for our residents."

Statham will take up the post on 5 January 2026. 

A local authority monitoring officer is a senior statutory officer that all local authorities must have in post and is responsible for ensuring the council, its officers, and elected members act lawfully and with the highest standards of conduct.