Paul Rennie OBE is a distinguished diplomat, economist, and ambassador for Britain in the American West whose career combines service, vision, and a profound belief in the power of global connection. As British Consul General in Los Angeles, he serves as the senior UK representative across Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Hawaii, plus US territories including Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Born in Edinburgh and educated at George Heriot’s School, Paul excelled academically, going on to earn an MA in Economics & Politics from the University of Edinburgh and an MSc in Economics from the University of York.In 2001 he joined the Diplomatic Service as its first Economist recruit, setting the foundation for a career built on rigorous analysis, empathetic diplomacy, and bold leadership.
Over the years, Paul has served in roles across the globe — at the United Nations in New York; in Brazil heading the UK’s economic portfolio; in India leading political affairs; in Malaysia as Deputy High Commissioner focused on education and cross-border partnerships; and in key London positions including secondments in the Cabinet Office and Department for International Development.In his role in Los Angeles, he leads efforts to deepen trade and investment ties, promote scientific cooperation, tackle climate change, and fuel creative and educational collaboration between the UK and the Southwest USA. He also oversees essential support for more than 600,000 British nationals living in or visiting his region.
Paul has earned wide recognition: awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Heriot-Watt University for services to UK education overseas; appointed OBE by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for services to UK-India relations.He is multilingual—speaking English, Portuguese, Dutch, French, Hindi—and is currently learning Spanish.
Beyond policy and diplomacy, Paul Rennie is known for his curiosity, respect for diverse cultures, and his belief that diplomacy is, at its heart, about connection: between ideas, people, and hopes for the future. His life’s work is a testament to what can be achieved when intellect meets compassion, and where representation is matched by purpose.
A leader who builds bridges, lifts voices, and shapes possibility.
The British Consul General in Los Angeles represents the United Kingdom across the American Southwest, a region renowned for its innovation, creativity, and global influence. The Consulate’s mission is to strengthen the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and the United States through diplomacy, trade, culture, and education. From advancing shared priorities on climate change, science, and technology to fostering collaboration in the creative industries and supporting British nationals abroad, the Consulate stands as a vibrant link between two dynamic nations.
Under the leadership of the Consul General, the Los Angeles team works to celebrate British excellence, deepen international cooperation, and inspire opportunities that reflect the values of openness, sustainability, and progress. In a city known for shaping the world’s imagination, the British Consulate General continues to embody the spirit of partnership and innovation that defines the modern relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States.
We have had consular representation in Los Angeles since the nineteenth century, and UK ties with the region are deep and extensive. Our work involves handling a wide range of political, commercial, cultural, security and economic interests to the UK and our region.
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