Dame Sarah Mullally, currently Bishop of London, has been appointed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury—and the first woman ever to hold that office in the Church of England’s history.

She is scheduled to take office in January 2026.

Mullally, formerly England’s chief nursing officer and a longtime church leader, succeeds Justin Welby, who resigned amid scrutiny over safeguarding issues.

Her nomination was selected by the Crown Nominations Commission and confirmed by King Charles.

In her response, Mullally acknowledged the appointment’s symbolism, emphasizing she intends to serve as a shepherd who enables diverse ministries across traditions.

She also addressed the church’s recent challenges, pledging to confront safeguarding failures transparently and to listen to survivors and the vulnerable.

Her elevation follows the Church’s 2014 decision to permit women bishops and the first female bishop consecrations in 2015.

Conservative factions—particularly in parts of the global Anglican Communion—have expressed opposition to women serving in the highest roles, making Mullally’s tenure likely to test both institutional unity and doctrinal boundaries.

As Archbishop, she will also preside over royal events, including coronations.

Her leadership will unfold amid debates over gender, inclusion, and restoring trust in the Church after recent scandals.