Sir Thomas Drew KCMG is a testament to a life dedicated to public service, marked by exceptional commitment and a clear vision. Starting his career in diplomacy in 1995, he has risen through the ranks with distinction, taking on some of the most critical roles in British foreign policy and national security.
His journey is a powerful example of how dedication and expertise can lead to impactful change on a global scale. From serving as the British High Commissioner to Pakistan to his crucial leadership role in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) where he guided the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Sir Thomas has consistently demonstrated a capacity to tackle complex and demanding challenges.
Now, as he take on the role of His Majesty’s Ambassador to France, his story is an inspiring reminder of the profound difference one can make in the world through a lifetime of service, building bridges, and fostering cooperation between nations for a safer, more prosperous future. He truly embodies the spirit of a dedicated diplomat, whose work inspires confidence and trust in international relations.
Tom Drew was appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to France in April 2025. He will begin this role in August 2025. Tom was Director General, Defence and Intelligence, at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) until December 2023. He had been Director General at the FCDO and previously the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) since January 2020.
Before this, Tom was British High Commissioner to Pakistan from February 2016 until October 2019. He was previously Principal Private Secretary (Chief of Staff) to Foreign Secretaries William Hague and Philip Hammond.
Tom was the FCO’s National Security Director from 2011 to 2012 and Director in the Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism in the Home Office from 2008 to 2011.
Tom joined the Diplomatic Service in 1995. In his early career he served in a variety of Europe and EU-related jobs in London. His first overseas posting was to Moscow (1998 to 2002) and he served for the first time in Islamabad from 2006 to 2008.
Tom started his career with McKinsey and Company, the management consultants. In 2015, he was Visiting Fellow at the McKinsey Global Institute.
He is married to Joanna, a fellow diplomat and British Ambassador to The Netherlands.
The British Embassy in Paris maintains and develops relations between the UK and France. The UK’s network in France and Monaco supports the government’s main aims overseas: keeping Britain safe, making Britain prosperous and helping British nationals.
This involves engaging with the French government on a wide range of policy issues, from trade and security to climate change and international affairs. It acts as the official channel for communication between London and Paris, ensuring that UK interests are heard and understood at the highest levels of French government.
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