Howard Dawber OBE: Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth
Howard Dawber OBE is a prominent British business leader, policy adviser, and public servant who currently serves as the Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades across urban development, public affairs, charitable initiatives, and political engagement, Dawber has become a leading voice in championing London’s role on the global stage.
This article explores his career, achievements, and contributions in detail, shedding light on the journey that led to his recognition as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2025.
Early Career and Foundations in Public Affairs
A Decade in Public Relations and Advocacy
Howard Dawber’s career began in public affairs and communications, where he worked for leading firms such as Westminster Strategy and Bell Pottinger. Over a ten-year period, he advised a wide range of clients, including local authorities, national agencies, and global corporations. This early experience gave him a deep understanding of how business, politics, and community interests intersect.
His work involved supporting organisations like the Bar Council of England and Wales, BAE Systems, and various borough councils in London. This period honed his ability to manage relationships, navigate political environments, and drive forward complex projects—skills that would become crucial in his later career.
Canary Wharf Group: Building London’s Modern Skyline
Strategic Advisor and Managing Director
In 2004, Dawber joined Canary Wharf Group, one of London’s most significant developers, where he remained for nearly 18 years. Initially serving as a Strategic Advisor, he later rose to become Managing Director of Strategy and a member of the Group’s board.
Key Projects
During his tenure, Dawber worked on more than 10 million square feet of development across six sites in London, including:
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The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), contributing to project design, politics, and funding.
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The London 2012 Olympic bid and legacy, helping to secure long-term benefits for the capital.
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Major inward investment initiatives in financial services, technology, health, and life sciences.
His role at Canary Wharf combined urban strategy with stakeholder engagement, ensuring the area became a global hub for commerce and innovation.
Leadership in Urban Strategy and Consultancy
City Strategy Limited
Following his tenure at Canary Wharf, Dawber founded and led City Strategy Limited, a consultancy specialising in strategic advice for cities and urban developers. Through this role, he provided guidance on regeneration, infrastructure, and investment, drawing upon decades of experience in urban planning and public affairs.
South London Procurement Network
He also played a central role in the South London Procurement Network, which aimed to connect local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with over £100 million in contracts. This initiative showcased his commitment to ensuring that major development projects delivered tangible benefits for local businesses and communities.
Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth
Appointment in 2023
In December 2023, Howard Dawber was appointed Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth by the Mayor of London. In this capacity, he also became Chair of London & Partners, the capital’s official business growth and destination agency.
Responsibilities
As Deputy Mayor, Dawber’s portfolio is broad and impactful:
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Championing London globally: Promoting the city as a destination for investment, expansion, and tourism.
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Industry leadership: Supporting key sectors such as tech and artificial intelligence, health and life sciences, climate tech, finance, creative industries, manufacturing, and retail.
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Small business advocacy: Strengthening the backbone of London’s economy by supporting SMEs in both outer boroughs and central districts.
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Skills and employment: Overseeing Adult Skills, ensuring Londoners gain qualifications for modern jobs while helping businesses access job-ready candidates.
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Fair work standards: Promoting the Mayor’s Good Work Standard, which encourages businesses to adopt best practices in employment and employee wellbeing.
Through this role, Dawber has been instrumental in ensuring London’s continued recovery, resilience, and competitiveness in a post-pandemic and post-Brexit world.
Community Engagement and Charitable Work
East End Community Foundation
Howard Dawber has demonstrated long-standing commitment to community development. He chaired the East End Community Foundation (EECF) for eight years, before becoming its Patron in 2021. The foundation funds grassroots organisations and supports initiatives that expand economic opportunity across east London.
The Line
Since 2017, Dawber has served as a Trustee of The Line, an innovative open-air art project along the River Lea. The initiative blends art, culture, and public space to enrich communities in East London.
Education and Mentorship
At the University of East London’s Royal Docks Business School, Dawber serves as Chair of the Business Advisory Board and Industrial Fellow, promoting inclusive education and forging partnerships between academia and industry. He is also an experienced guest lecturer on London’s strategic positioning as a global business hub.
Political Involvement and Public Service
Labour Party Engagement
Howard Dawber has been active within the Labour Party for decades, including standing as a Parliamentary candidate in 2001 and 2010. While not elected, he contributed significantly to campaigns and policy development.
He also chairs Labour Friends of Bangladesh and co-chairs Labour Friends of USA, fostering dialogue and cooperation on international political and economic issues.
Young Fabians and Policy Development
Earlier in his career, Dawber was Chair of the Young Fabians, the under-31 section of the Fabian Society, where he encouraged fresh ideas and policy debate among younger members of the Labour movement. His continued honorary presidency reflects his lasting influence.
Recognition and Honours
Officer of the Order of the British Empire
In June 2025, Howard Dawber was awarded the title Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours List. This prestigious recognition was granted for his services to local government and the community in East London.
Other Awards
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Honorary East Ender (2021), awarded by the East End Community Foundation at the conclusion of his tenure as Chair.
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Honorary Life Membership of King’s College London Students’ Union (1992), recognising his contributions as a student leader and editor of the university magazine.
Personal Life and Interests
Beyond his professional achievements, Howard Dawber leads a life enriched by personal passions and family commitments.
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He is married to author Laura McVeigh, and together they have a son, Riley.
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Known for being a serial social entrepreneur, he often describes his ventures as happening “by accident,” highlighting his instinct for spotting opportunities.
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His personal interests range from politics, education, infrastructure funding, inward investment, and the digital economy to cultural connections with the USA, Bangladesh, Spain, Catalunya, and Mallorca.
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He humorously notes that he is “afflicted by historic motorboats,” reflecting a passion for heritage and engineering.
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A self-described lateral thinker, he is driven by a determination to make things happen and is unafraid to voice anger at injustice, incompetence, or waste.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Howard Dawber OBE embodies the fusion of business leadership, civic responsibility, and political advocacy. From reshaping Canary Wharf’s skyline to guiding London’s economic recovery as Deputy Mayor, his career demonstrates both vision and pragmatism.
His continued focus on small business empowerment, skills development, and international investment positions him as a crucial figure in shaping London’s role in the global economy. At the same time, his dedication to community, education, and cultural projects ensures that his impact reaches far beyond corporate boardrooms.
Conclusion
Howard Dawber OBE is not only a senior leader in London’s government but also a bridge-builder between business, politics, and community life. His journey reflects a lifelong commitment to improving opportunities for Londoners, strengthening the city’s global reputation, and standing up for fairness and innovation.
As London navigates challenges from climate change to economic transformation, Howard Dawber’s leadership is set to play a pivotal role in securing a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous future for the capital.
