How we run HMRC

In 2008, HMRC implemented a new governance structure appointing a non-executive Chairman and a new Chief Executive.

• The Chairman and the Board are responsible for the effective governance of HMRC.
• The Chief Executive and the Executive Committee are responsible for running HMRC.

There are very clear accountabilities for the Chairman and the Chief Executive.

• Setting the strategic direction and ensuring the highest standards of governance lies with the Chairman.
• The responsibility for delivery and expenditure lies with the Chief Executive.

The top team is further strengthened by the appointment of a Permanent Secretary for Tax who is the senior tax professional in HMRC. He is also the Deputy Chief Executive.

The Senior team in HMRC is

• Mike Clasper - Non-Executive Chairman
  Responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction to the Department and ensuring the highest levels of governance
• Lesley Strathie - Chief Executive and Permanent Secretary
  Responsible for delivering the departmental strategy and for the organisation’s performance
• Dave Hartnett - Permanent Secretary for Tax
  The senior tax professional in HMRC.

The HMRC Board is chaired by Mike Clasper and is also attended by the Non-Executive Directors. The Board is supported by Audit & Risk, Ethics & Responsibilities and People sub-committees.

Lesley Strathie chairs the Executive Committee which is attended by her senior management team. The Executive Committee is supported by Change Delivery, Investment, People Matters, Performance and Tax sub-committees.

HMRC is a non-ministerial department established by the Commissioners for Revenue and Customs Act (CRCA) 2005.