Peter Westmacott

Biography

Sir Peter Westmacott is one of Britain’s most distinguished diplomats, with over four decades of experience navigating international affairs at the highest levels. He served as the UK’s Ambassador to the United States and prior to his time in Washington, he was Ambassador to France, and before that, to Turkey.

Sir Peter’s diplomatic career began with a posting in Iran, followed by a secondment to the European Commission in Brussels. He held senior roles within the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, including Director for the Americas and Deputy Under Secretary. He also served as Deputy Private Secretary to The Prince of Wales.

Serving in Europe, the US and the Middle East, Sir Peter’s career and outlook has been shaped by an appreciation for the politics, but also the relationships, people and cultures across these regions. His work has taken him into the heart of global diplomacy, dealing directly with world leaders, participating in critical negotiations, and witnessing many of the geopolitical events that have shaped the modern era, from the final years of the Cold War to the rise of globalisation and digital diplomacy.

Drawing on these experiences, Sir Peter explores geopolitics, transatlantic relations, and the complex realities of diplomacy. With wit and insight, he reflects on navigating high-stakes negotiations, balancing national interests, and the evolving nature of global power, informed by years working alongside presidents, prime ministers and senior officials. He also considers the lessons in influence and negotiation that a life in diplomacy has taught.

Since leaving the diplomatic service, Sir Peter has maintained particularly close links with the US, Turkey, and Iran, and has continued to advise on international affairs. He is a Senior Advisor at Chatham House, and a Distinguished Ambassadorial Fellow at the Atlantic Council, alongside a number of board roles across various industries. He is also the author of They Call It Diplomacy: Forty Years of Representing Britain Abroad, a candid and insightful exploration of modern diplomacy.