The Greater London Authority (GLA) was established by the GLA Act 1999. Its staff are appointed by the Head of Paid Service, the GLA’s most senior official, and serve both the Mayor and the London Assembly.

The corporate roles undertaken by GLA staff include:

• Spending money wisely – the GLA’s budget and business planning documents clearly set out how Londoners’ money is being spent

• Maintaining high standards – the GLA upholds the highest standards of conduct and maintains registers of gifts & hospitality and of interests for its Members and senior staff

• Governing the organisation – the GLA has developed a transparent and comprehensive approach to corporate governance which is overseen by its Corporate Management Team

• Electing the Mayor and Assembly – the GLA’s Greater London Returning Officer (GLRO) oversees the administration of GLA elections which are held every four years