Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joins Microsoft and AI startup Anthropic as a senior strategic advisor, marking a transition from politics to the tech sector. These roles come after his resignation as Conservative Party leader in July 2024, although he continues to serve as Member of Parliament for Richmond & Northallerton.
What Sunak Will Do in His Advisory Roles
Sunak’s responsibilities include offering strategic guidance on global macroeconomic trends, geopolitical risks, and AI ethics. At Microsoft, he will provide input on corporate strategy and participate in high-level events. At Anthropic, Sunak’s role will focus on AI safety, ethical considerations, and global strategic planning, ensuring the company navigates AI development responsibly.
Ethical Safeguards and Conflict Prevention
Both companies have taken steps to ensure Sunak is insulated from lobbying activities and UK government interactions. The UK’s Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACOBA) has imposed a two-year lobbying ban and restrictions on advising non-public policy matters to maintain compliance with ethical standards. These measures prevent potential conflicts of interest and maintain public trust.
Philanthropic Commitment
All earnings from Sunak’s advisory roles will be donated to The Richmond Project, a charity he co-founded with his wife, Akshata Murty. The organization focuses on improving numeracy skills among students in the UK, demonstrating Sunak’s commitment to social impact alongside professional engagement.
Previous Advisory Experience
Before joining Microsoft and Anthropic, Sunak returned to Goldman Sachs in July 2025 as an advisor. These roles reflect his increasing involvement in the private sector, leveraging his government and financial expertise to guide organizations on strategic and ethical considerations.
Why This Matters for the AI Sector
While Sunak is not a technical AI developer, his strategic guidance helps bridge the gap between technology and governance. With global scrutiny on AI ethics growing, his input on responsible AI deployment and geopolitical risk management can help companies like Anthropic make informed, ethical decisions.
Industry and Public Reaction
Industry analysts note that Sunak’s transition highlights the value of political experience in guiding tech companies, especially in areas like global strategy and AI safety. His advisory roles may influence long-term strategic initiatives and ethical frameworks within these organizations.
Looking Ahead
Sunak’s work at Microsoft and Anthropic demonstrates a growing trend of former policymakers entering the tech space, bringing expertise in ethics, strategy, and global affairs. As AI continues to evolve, strategic advisors like Sunak play a crucial role in ensuring responsible and sustainable innovation.
Sources: Reuters, Financial Times, The Guardian
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