Councillor Haroon Rashid has been appointed as Mayor of Rotherham for 2026–2027, becoming the borough’s First Citizen.
He becomes the 121st person to hold the office at the Council’s annual ceremonial meeting today.
Raised in Rotherham, the Mayor is immensely proud to represent his hometown, describing the role as “an opportunity of a lifetime”, bringing a wealth of personal and professional experience to role. He succeeds outgoing Mayor, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail, and will be joined by his Consort and Father, Mr Abdul Rashid.
A proud family man, Councillor Rashid is the son of a Sheffield Steel industry worker and the grandson of a British Navy veteran who served during the Second World War from Kashmir. Growing up in the Eastwood area, he became the first person in his extended family to go on to further education, later building a varied career in customer service, training, employment services and housing. He currently works in the housing sector but will be taking a sabbatical during his tenure to focus fully on the Mayoral role. He was elected to Rotherham Council in May 2024, representing the Rotherham East Ward.
A keen sports enthusiast, an avid Cricket fan and a supporter of Rotherham United, the Mayor believes sport plays an important role in bringing people together and supporting wellbeing. Looking ahead to the year to come, he said his aim is to be a positive role model, represent the borough well, meet as many people and organisations as possible, and recognise the fantastic work being done across Rotherham. He added that making even a small difference would mean a great deal to him.
Reflecting on his appointment, Councillor Rashid said: “Rotherham is my home, and it has made me who I am. My sole aim is to be a positive role model, represent the borough positively, meet as many people, communities, groups, organisations and charities as possible, and thank everyone for the fantastic work they do. If I can make even a small difference during my time as Mayor, that will mean a great deal to me.”
During his Mayoral year, Councillor Rashid will support four local charities that are close to his heart:
- Rotherham Military Community Veterans Centre (MCVC)
- Rotherham Opportunities College
- Sense, Rotherham
- The Unity Centre Rotherham
“I am very happy to support the Armed Forces community, as my family has strong ties to the military. I have also seen first‑hand how vital charities and voluntary organisations are for families, often providing a real lifeline.”
The Mayor of Rotherham is a ceremonial civic role, elected annually by fellow councillors at the Council’s annual meeting, with responsibilities focused on representing the borough, supporting communities and charities, and promoting civic pride, rather than holding executive or decision-making powers within the Council.
Mayor’s Parade – Saturday 16 May, All Saints Square, from 10:50am
Residents are invited to welcome the new Mayor at this annual ceremonial event. Watch the ceremonial procession make its way through the town centre, see the civic regalia, and join in celebrating Rotherham’s rich civic traditions as the new Mayoral year begins.
Please note: Free parking is available on Saturdays in all Council-owned off-street car parks in Rotherham town centre. No ticket is required, although normal maximum duration limits still apply. For information about the parade route visit: www.rotherham.gov.uk/events
For more information on the Mayor’s Office and civic events, visit: www.rotherham.gov.uk/mayor
