What was Sarah Mullally's role before being named the first female Archbishop of Canterbury in 2025?

Before her historic appointment as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally served as the Bishop of London. This significant role, which she held from 2018 until her translation to Canterbury in January 2026, placed her as the third most senior bishop in the Church of England, after the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. Notably, she was also the first woman to hold the prestigious position of Bishop of London, marking a significant step in the Church's evolving leadership.

Her journey to these prominent ecclesiastical roles is particularly inspiring. Before entering ordained ministry, Sarah Mullally had a distinguished career in healthcare, serving as the Chief Nursing Officer for England. She was ordained as a priest in 2002 and later became the Suffragan Bishop of Crediton in 2015, making her one of the first women bishops in the Church of England. This background in public service, combined with her experience as a bishop, provided a unique foundation (Review) for her leadership within the church.

The announcement of her nomination as Archbishop of Canterbury in October 2025, and her subsequent confirmation in January 2026, was a landmark moment for the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion. It signifies a profound shift in the Church's approach to female leadership, opening doors for greater inclusivity at its highest levels. Her installation in March 2026 will formally mark the beginning of her public ministry in this pivotal role, overseeing a global communion of millions.