Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to return to his academic roots, securing new roles at two prestigious institutions Oxford University and Stanford University. Announced on Tuesday, Sunak will join Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government as a member of its World Leaders Circle. Additionally, he will take on a visiting fellowship at the Hoover Institution, a renowned think tank based at Stanford University in California, where he met his wife, Akshata Murty.
Sunak, who studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at Oxford before earning an MBA at Stanford, expressed his excitement about these new ventures. “I am delighted to be joining both Oxford and Stanford,” 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.”
The former Prime Minister shared that his time at both universities had a profound impact on his life and career. "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", Sunak added.
These appointments mark Sunak’s first significant roles since stepping down from the Prime Minister’s office last year, although he remains the Member of Parliament for Richmond and Northallerton in North Yorkshire. In taking on roles at such high-profile institutions, Sunak follows in the footsteps of former leaders. For instance, Sir Tony Blair taught a course at Yale University shortly after leaving Downing Street, while Gordon Brown became a 'distinguished leader in residence' at New York University.
Lord William Hague, Oxford University’s chancellor and a former Conservative leader, praised Sunak’s extensive experience and deep understanding of contemporary governmental challenges. “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,” Hague said. He further added that Sunak’s insights would inspire the next generation of leaders studying at Oxford.
Condoleezza Rice, former US Secretary of State and current director of the Hoover Institution, welcomed Sunak’s appointment. She noted that Sunak’s global policy experience would enhance the institution’s fellowship, stating, “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 is known for its postgraduate courses in public policy and has welcomed influential figures such as former Colombian president Iván Duque into its World Leaders Circle. The Hoover Institution, a leading public policy think tank, has hosted distinguished visiting fellows, including former UK Chancellor George Osborne, former Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, and Sunak’s former foreign policy adviser, John Bew.
As Sunak embarks on this new chapter, his expertise and leadership will contribute to shaping crucial research and policies at these world-renowned institutions.
