Deputy High Commissioner to New Zealand

John Pearson

Biography

John Pearson was appointed as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Laos in August 2019.

John has extensive experience working on Asia and Latin America. He has previous postings in Madrid (1992 to 1994), Brasilia (1996 to 1999), Montevideo (2005 to 2008), Singapore (2008 to 2012) and Mexico City (2012 to 2014). Before taking up his position in Vientiane he was Deputy Head of China Department in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office from 2014 to 2019. He also has a background in sustainability and climate change.

Find out more about John Pearson.

Deputy High Commissioner to New Zealand

The Deputy Head of Mission is a senior diplomat and typically a key advisor to the Ambassador or High Commissioner. The Deputy is responsible for the daily management of an overseas Embassy or High Commission. They will represent the UK’s interests in the absence of the Ambassador as Chargé d’Affaires. A senior ranking Deputy may also take the title Minister. Smaller missions may not have a Deputy Head.

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Previous roles in government

  • British Ambassador to Laos