Simon Fraser stands as a luminary in the world of international relations, politics, and geopolitics, his vast experience in public service rendering him a keynote speaker of unparalleled depth and insight. As the former Permanent Under-Secretary at the UK Foreign Office (FCO), his leadership was instrumental in overseeing a global diplomatic network, managing an impressive 14,000 personnel across 168 countries. His contributions during his tenure at the FCO, coupled with his compelling communication skills, have solidified his reputation as a distinguished speaker, sharing insights from his illustrious career in UK political service with audiences worldwide.
Simon's international engagement extends beyond the UK, having served as Chief of Staff to the EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson, where he led the UK's involvement in critical trade negotiations with the United States and China. His journey from a Middle East specialist to a leading figure in European and international economic policy, combined with his founding role at Flint, showcases a career characterised by versatility and dedication to public service. His receipt of honours such as CMG, KCMG, and GCMG attests to his high esteem in British politics and beyond.
Before his pivotal role at the FCO, Simon showcased his adeptness in navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes, notably through his leadership in the merger of two departments to create the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS). With a £20 billion budget under his stewardship, he was instrumental in influencing policy across business, regulation, higher education, science, and skills. His roles as the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, and the Director-General Europe of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, demonstrate his profound impact on shaping British domestic and international policy. Furthermore, his tenure as Deputy Chairman of Chatham House, one of the leading think tanks on international affairs, underscores his commitment to influencing global policy discussions.
Simon Fraser's contributions to global diplomacy, government-business interfacing, and leadership in intricate settings position him as an invaluable voice in discussions on politics, geopolitics, and international relations. His experiences at the helm of international diplomacy, trade, economic policy, and the European Union, particularly his role as a Senior Adviser at Chatham House, underscore his unique expertise in bridging the gap between government and business. For those seeking an esteemed speaker on geopolitics and politics, Sir Simon Fraser's breadth of knowledge and experience makes him an outstanding choice for any event
