Director of Protocol and Vice-Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps

Victoria Busby OBE

Biography

Vic Busby was appointed Director Protocol and Vice-Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in September 2020. Before this role Vic was Chief Operating Officer for the COP26 UN Climate Summit from September 2019 to September 2020. In this Cabinet Office role Vic led on event management, communications, finance, HR and engagement with the Devolved Administrations.

Previously, Vic worked in the Prime Minister’s Office for 7 years as Deputy Director, Events and Visits, leading on all aspects of public engagement for David Cameron and Theresa May. From 2010 to 2012, Vic was Head of Communication in the Government Olympic Executive. In this role Vic ran campaigns to help build awareness of legacy objectives for the London Olympic Games and led the government’s media operation at the Olympic Park.

Vic started her Civil Service career in 2006, working in a variety of communications posts at the Department for Work and Pensions, the Ministry of Defence and the Home Office. Vic studied English language and literature at Keble College, Oxford, and spent her early working years in the private sector, including a role at Christie’s auction house.

In 2019 Vic was awarded an OBE for public service. She is married and lives in Twickenham with her husband and 2 young sons.

Director of Protocol and Vice-Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps

The Director of Protocol works to the Foreign Secretary, through the Chief Operating Officer and the Permanent Under Secretary, and is responsible for advice on all matters of Protocol and for the work described above.

The Director is also appointed by His Majesty the King as Vice-Marshal and works in support of the Marshal in managing and promoting the relationship between the Royal Households and the members of the diplomatic corps.

The Director’s work includes:

  • the relationship with the foreign diplomatic missions and international organisations based in the UK
  • diplomatic and VIP security
  • the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office relationship with the Royal Households
  • logistics for major conferences and events
  • inward state and Guest of Government visits
  • Government Hospitality

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office