Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak takes on dual advisory roles with Microsoft and Anthropic, pledging all proceeds to charity while navigating the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and ethics.
NFAPost, Bengaluru: In a move that bridges politics, technology, and global strategy, former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has taken up advisory positions at Microsoft and Anthropic, two of the world’s most influential technology companies. The appointments, announced in early October 2025, signal Sunak’s growing engagement in the international technology ecosystem following his departure from 10 Downing Street.
The roles, both part-time and non-policy in nature, will see Sunak provide strategic insights on global economic trends, geopolitical shifts, and corporate foresight—leveraging his background in finance and governance to guide long-term planning at both organizations.
Advising the Titans of Tech
At Anthropic, one of the leading players in artificial intelligence research and safety, Sunak’s focus will be on geopolitical risk assessment, global strategy, and internal corporate direction. Importantly, he will not be involved in UK-specific policy or regulatory matters—a measure designed to ensure ethical boundaries are upheld.
Meanwhile, his role at Microsoft encompasses macro-economic analysis and participation in key corporate summits, including the Microsoft Annual Summit, where he will deliver talks and engage with global business leaders.
In a post on LinkedIn, Sunak described Microsoft and Anthropic as “two of the world’s leading tech firms shaping the future of innovation and global progress,” adding that he was “excited to contribute to their missions at a time when technology and geopolitics are more intertwined than ever.”
A Charitable Commitment
While both roles are paid positions, Sunak has chosen to donate 100% of his earnings to The Richmond Project, a UK-based charity he co-founded with his wife, Akshata Murty. The organization focuses on improving numeracy skills and mathematical confidence across the UK—an initiative close to Sunak’s long-standing advocacy for education and financial literacy.
This decision appears to be a calculated move to preempt criticism often directed at former political leaders who transition into lucrative corporate roles after leaving office.
Ethical Oversight and Transparency
Sunak’s appointments underwent review by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACOBA), the UK watchdog responsible for overseeing post-government employment among former ministers.
ACOBA granted approval with strict conditions, including:
- A prohibition on lobbying or contacting UK government officials on behalf of either company.
- A ban on advising on UK-specific policy or regulatory matters.
- An obligation to uphold transparency and avoid potential conflicts of interest.
These safeguards aim to ensure Sunak’s corporate engagements remain ethically sound and free from political influence.
A Broader Trend Among Global Leaders
Sunak’s move reflects a growing trend among former world leaders taking strategic advisory positions in major technology firms. As artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making increasingly shape global policy and economics, companies are seeking insights from figures experienced in navigating international governance, economic resilience, and geopolitical dynamics.
By aligning himself with Microsoft and Anthropic, Sunak positions himself at the confluence of technology and global policy, a domain that continues to define the next chapter of global leadership.
In essence, Rishi Sunak’s post-premiership journey underscores a new model of statesmanship—one that transcends borders, industries, and traditional politics, while maintaining a clear commitment to ethical integrity and public good.
