Jonathan Powell appointed as UK PM's National Security Adviser
Image courtesy Cabinet Office
Jonathan is currently the CEO of Inter Mediate, a UK based charity working on resolving international conflicts. He will succeed Sir Tim Barrow who has served as National Security Adviser since September 2022.
Welcoming Jonathan’s appointment, The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said: "Jonathan has devoted his career to protecting the interests of the country, having served for seventeen years as a diplomat in the Foreign Office and 10 years as Chief of Staff in No10 and I am delighted to appoint him to this important role.
"Together with his experience helping to negotiate the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and work on some of the world’s most complex conflicts, he is uniquely qualified to advise the Government on tackling the challenges ahead and engage with counterparts across the globe to protect and advance UK interests.
"I would also like to thank Sir Tim Barrow for his service and the support and advice he has given me. He has helped steer the national security community through some of the most challenging times in recent history, demonstrating throughout his outstanding commitment to public service and to the safety and security of this country. I’ve no doubt he will continue to play a positive role on these issues in the future."
Jonathan Powell said: "I am honoured to have been appointed as the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister. This is a hugely important role at a time where national security, international relations, and domestic policies are so interconnected.
"As the Prime Minister has set out, national security is at the heart of this country’s response to the many challenges we face and having an integrated response will be crucial to our success. I look forward to advising the Prime Minister and working closely with Ministers and officials in this new role.
Sir Tim Barrow said: "Having known Jonathan Powell for many years I know he is very well qualified for this post. He will provide excellent support to the PM and the national security community."
The Trustees of Inter Mediate said in a statement that Jonathan has left a remarkable legacy which they will now take forward and wished him well in his next challenge, whilst also announcing the appointment of Claire Hajaj to the role of Executive Director of Inter Mediate with effect from 2nd December 2024.
