Sir Richard Moore KCMG – Guardian of the Nation, Knight of the Realm, Esteemed Ambassador – Pro servitio tuo honor et gratia
Sir Richard Moore KCMG leaves his role as Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service — MI6 — with a legacy that is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Throughout his five years of leadership, he has embodied courage, wisdom, and deep commitment to the service of the United Kingdom, guiding the agency through some of the most complex challenges of our age. His tenure has been marked by innovation, resilience, and a steadfast belief in the power of intelligence to safeguard not only national security, but also the values of freedom and democracy.
Born with an international outlook and educated with distinction, Sir Richard began his career in diplomacy before rising through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, where his clarity of thought and unshakeable integrity distinguished him early on. His appointment as Chief of MI6 in 2020 was historic, not only for his vision of a modern, inclusive service but also for his commitment to transparency — a groundbreaking approach in a world where secrecy so often defines intelligence.
Sir Richard’s leadership was not confined to strategy alone; it was rooted in humanity. He championed diversity within MI6, believing that the strength of Britain’s intelligence community lay in its people and their breadth of perspectives. He steered the Service towards embracing technology and new partnerships, ensuring the United Kingdom was equipped to confront threats in cyber, terrorism, and global instability, while upholding the highest ethical standards.
As he steps down, Sir Richard Moore is celebrated not only as a guardian of the nation but as a leader of principle and vision, whose service has strengthened Britain’s place in the world. His legacy inspires the next generation of public servants to lead with courage, humility, and dedication. His story is one of devotion to duty, of Herculean service to his country, and of a life lived in honour of the values he has so faithfully defended.
As Sir Richard Moore KCMG turns the page to a new and exciting chapter, we extend our warmest wishes for success in his distinguished role as Chair of the Kennedy Memorial Trust. This position, dedicated to fostering education, leadership, and international understanding, is a natural continuation of his lifelong service to others. With his wisdom, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Sir Richard will no doubt inspire future generations, honouring the legacy of President Kennedy while building new bridges of opportunity and hope. May this next chapter be as impactful and rewarding as the extraordinary service he has already given to his country, United Kingdom
Pro servitio tuo honor et gratia
Kennedy Memorial Trust
The Kennedy Memorial Trust stands as a beacon of international friendship, leadership, and public service, celebrating the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Established to honor his vision, courage, and commitment to advancing understanding between nations, the Trust offers a prestigious platform for Australians to pursue postgraduate study at Harvard University. Through its scholarships, the Trust empowers outstanding individuals to broaden their intellectual horizons, develop global networks, and cultivate the skills and insights needed to address the complex challenges of today’s world.
Beyond academics, the Kennedy Memorial Trust embodies the spirit of service, leadership, and civic responsibility. Its mission is not simply to fund study, but to inspire recipients to use their knowledge and talents for the greater good, fostering innovation, social progress, and positive change both in Australia and internationally. By nurturing excellence, encouraging cross-cultural exchange, and celebrating the transformative power of education, the Trust continues to create a lasting impact, ensuring that the ideals of President Kennedy — vision, courage, and dedication to humanity — remain alive and influential in the modern era.
The Kennedy Memorial Trust oversees the official British national memorial to US President John F. Kennedy. That memorial has two parts, ‘a memorial in landscape and stone’ at Runnymede in Surrey and a ‘living memorial’ in the form of Kennedy Scholarships to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The Trust has a Board of up to eleven Trustees who, in accordance with the Deed, are appointed by the UK Prime Minister, the Presidents of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or by the President of the United States. The Trust Deed dates from 4 July 1964.
