Tom Fletcher Keynote Speaker

Tom Fletcher, a seasoned diplomat and author who has made significant contributions to global diplomacy and international relations. His notable career includes serving as the British Ambassador to Lebanon from 2011-15 and as the Downing Street foreign policy adviser to three prime ministers.

He holds a Masters Degree in Modern History from Oxford University where he serves as the Principal of Hertford College and a Senior Associate Member of St Anthony’s College for International Studies. Through his roles, Tom remains active in international affairs and education.

Fletcher has held pivotal roles in the British diplomatic service, his journey began with his entry into the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1997. His early career saw him tackling challenging assignments in Africa and the Middle East, where he quickly established himself as a skilled negotiator and strategist. His tenure as the British Ambassador to Lebanon was particularly distinguished, he navigated complex political landscapes during a tumultuous period, fostering stronger UK-Lebanon relations and promoting stability in the region.

In addition to his ambassadorial duties, Fletcher played a crucial role as a foreign policy adviser at 10 Downing Street. He advised Prime Ministers Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and David Cameron on key international issues from 2007-11, demonstrating his adeptness at high-stakes decision-making and policy development. Tom was awarded the Companion of St Michael and St George at the 2011 New Year’s Honours for his ministerial work. His work during this period was instrumental in shaping the UK’s foreign policy responses to global events.

Beyond his diplomatic career, Fletcher has been a vocal advocate for the integration of technology in governance and diplomacy. His book, “The Naked Diplomat: Power and Politics in the Digital Age,” published in 2016 explores the impact of digital advancements on traditional diplomatic practices, offering a forward-thinking perspective on the future of international relations. The book has been widely acclaimed for its insights into the evolving landscape of diplomacy in the 21st century. Tom has also published two other books in 2022: “Ten Survival Skills for a World in Flux” and “The Ambassador: A global conspiracy. A man on the run.”

Tom Fletcher CMG is a leading expert in global diplomacy and international relations. He continues to shape the future of diplomacy through his work and insights.