Magistrate and ex-HR consultant Jon Whitaker sworn in as new High Sheriff of Hampshire at Winchester’s Great Hall
“IT is such an honour” – these were the words of the new High Sheriff of Hampshire, sworn in during a recent ceremony at Winchester’s Great Hall.
Long-serving magistrate Jon Whitaker succeeds Amelia Riviere as the Sovereign’s county representative for all matters relating to the Judiciary and the maintenance of law and order.
The one-year, independent, voluntary unpaid, non-political royal appointment typically involves supporting crime prevention agencies, the emergency services and the voluntary sector.
Mr Whitaker will also support the Lord Lieutenant on royal visits and other occasions when appropriate.
“It is such an honour to be able to take on the role of High Sheriff of Hampshire,” he said.
“I am looking forward to my year in office enormously, and it will be an absolute privilege for me not only to represent the Crown in our county, but also to be able to support those who work and volunteer within law and order in our communities across Hampshire.
“It is my intention to have ‘youth and service’ as my theme for my year.”
Mr Whitaker was sworn in before High Court Judge Mr Justice Saini, circuit judges, magistrates and the Lord Lieutenant. His predecessor attended, along with court officials and invited guests.
Born and raised in Devon, he moved to Hampshire and worked in Sainsbury’s training and HR divisions for 33 years before launching an HR consultancy for small businesses.
Jon spent many years assessing and examining at a national level with the Royal Life Saving Society.
He also served with the Royal Observer Corps at RAF Odiham and is currently a reservist serving with the army in a specialist mentoring and coaching role.
He is a strong supporter of ex-service charities, particularly the Royal British Legion and RAF Association.
Appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2023, he is currently the chair/hon HR advisor to the Hampshire Scout Advisory Committee, head of Hampshire & IOW Freemasons, and county president of Hampshire St John Ambulance.
