Alex Winning Appointed Leader of Southampton City Council as New Cabinet Announced
Councillor Alex Winning has been officially appointed as the new Leader of Southampton City Council, following the resignation of former leader Councillor Lorna Fielker. The appointment was confirmed during a Full Council meeting today, Wednesday, 16 July.
Councillor Winning, who previously served as Cabinet Member for Children and Learning, brings a longstanding commitment to public service and deep local ties to the role. His journey in local government began at the age of 16, working in the Civic Centre’s post room. Since then, he has dedicated much of his professional life to serving Southampton’s communities.
In his first address as Council Leader, Councillor Winning said:
“I’m incredibly proud to be taking on the role of leader of the council. It’s a real honour — and I’ll never take it for granted. Southampton is my home. This city has shaped who I am, and I care deeply about its future.
“My top priority is making sure we get the basics right. That means keeping our services running smoothly, staying financially strong, and always putting residents first. This isn’t about me — it’s about all of us. Residents, businesses, and partners working together to build a city we’re proud of. I’m committed to collaboration, open conversations, and listening to your ideas and concerns. Thank you for being so engaged and passionate about our city. I feel incredibly lucky to serve you.”
Jillian Kay, Chief Executive of Southampton City Council, welcomed the appointment:
“We welcome Councillor Winning as the Council’s new leader. I look forward to working closely with him to take forward the City Plan and the council’s new corporate plan, and to deliver essential services for our residents.”
Cabinet Reshuffle
In addition to the new leadership, Southampton City Council has announced a refreshed Cabinet lineup. Among the key changes, Councillor Amanda Barnes-Andrews takes over Winning’s former role as Cabinet Member for Children and Learning, and Councillor Josh Allen joins the Cabinet as the new Cabinet Member for Communities.
The updated Cabinet is as follows:
• Leader of the Council: Councillor Alex Winning
• Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport: Councillor Christie Lambert
• Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health: Councillor Marie Finn
• Cabinet Member for Children and Learning: Councillor Amanda Barnes-Andrews
• Cabinet Member for Housing: Councillor Andy Frampton
• Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Growth and Skills: Councillor Sarah Bogle
• Cabinet Member for Environment and Net Zero: Councillor John Savage
• Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources: Councillor Simon Letts
• Cabinet Member for Communities: Councillor Josh Allen
• Cabinet Member for Leisure and People: Councillor Toqeer Katria
The new leadership team signals a renewed focus on financial stability, core services, and community collaboration as the Council moves forward under Councillor Winning’s direction.