Rishi Sunak Takes on New Academic Roles at Oxford and Stanford

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has revealed his new positions at two renowned institutions and becoming a member of the World Leaders Circle at Oxford University's Blavatnik School of Government and accepting a visiting fellowship at Stanford University's Hoover Institution in California. Sunak, who studied philosophy, politics, and economics at Oxford and later earned an MBA from Stanford, shared his "delight" at joining both esteemed institutions.

He said, “Both Blavatnik and Hoover do superb work on how we can rise to the economic and security challenges we face and seize the technological opportunities of our time.

“I have huge affection for both Oxford and Stanford. I was fortunate enough to study at both, they shaped my life and career, and I look forward to contributing to their world-leading research in the months and years ahead”.

Shortly after leaving Downing Street, Sir Tony Blair taught a course at Yale University, while Gordon Brown took on the role of "distinguished leader in residence" at New York University.

Lord William Hague, Chancellor of Oxford University and a former Conservative leader like Sunak, stated that the former prime minister's experience and "profound understanding of the challenges governments face today" would be "a great asset."

Lord Hague added, “Rishi’s connection to Oxford University runs deep, and it’s great to see him coming back to his alma mater to contribute in such a meaningful way.

“I have no doubt his insights will inspire the next generation of leaders who are starting their journey here at Oxford”.

Condoleezza Rice, the former US secretary of state and current director of the Hoover Institution, also welcomed his appointment, saying Sunak’s “extensive policy and global experience will enrich our fellowship and help to define important policies moving forward”.

She said, “The United States and the UK share a very special bond, and we look forward to the impact of his work on the many challenges facing democracies and the world in years to come”.

The Blavatnik School of Government offers postgraduate courses in public policy and counts former Colombian president Ivan Duque among its World Leaders Circle members. At the same time, the Hoover Institution, a public policy think tank, hosts distinguished visiting fellows such as former Conservative Chancellor George Osborne, former Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, and John Bew, who previously served as Rishi Sunak's foreign policy adviser.