Lisa Chesney to Succeed Kate Airey in Diplomatic Role
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has announced Lisa Chesney has been appointed as the new British High Commissioner to Uganda. She is set to take on this role in October 2024, following her service in Sierra Leone.
Chesney will replace Kate Airey, who is moving on to a new position within the diplomatic service. The UK office did not provide specific reasons for this transition at the High Commission in Kampala.
Chesney comes to this role with a wealth of experience. Before her tenure in Sierra Leone, she served as the deputy high commissioner in Mogadishu, Somalia, from 2013 to 2014. This background equips her with valuable insights into international relations and diplomatic engagement.
Kate Airey has been the British High Commissioner to Uganda since late 2019, officially beginning her duties in November 2020. During her time in Uganda, Airey worked to strengthen ties between the UK and Uganda, focusing on various areas including trade, development, and security.
The appointment of Chesney is seen as an important step in maintaining and enhancing the UK’s diplomatic relations in the region. The new High Commissioner will likely continue efforts to build on the foundation laid by her predecessor.
Summary of Appointments
| Name | Position | Previous Role | Appointment Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisa Chesney | British High Commissioner to Uganda | High Commissioner in Sierra Leone | October 2024 |
| Kate Airey | Former British High Commissioner to Uganda | – | November 2020 |
Diplomatic Transition Set for October 2024
This change will take effect in October 2024, succeeding Ms. Kate Airey OBE, who is moving to another role within the Diplomatic Service. Lisa Chesney brings a diverse background in diplomacy and public service to her new position. Most recently, Chesney was the British High Commissioner in Freetown, Sierra Leone, a role she held since 2021.
Career Overview
Chesney’s extensive career is highlighted by significant positions within the UK government. Below is a summary of her professional experience:
| Year | Role |
|---|---|
| 2021 to Present | British High Commissioner, Freetown |
| 2020 to 2021 | Head, COVID-19 Recovery and Change, Home Office |
| 2018 to 2020 | Head, Counter-Extremism Unit, Home Office |
| 2015 to 2018 | Deputy Head, Security Policy Department, FCO |
| 2015 | Completed Higher Command and Staff Course, Defence Academy |
| 2013 to 2014 | Deputy Head of Mission, Mogadishu |
| 2012 to 2013 | Head of Politics and Strategic Communications, Helmand Province |
| 2012 | Full-time language training (Pashto) |
| 2010 to 2012 | Head, Prevent Team, Counter-Terrorism Department, FCO |
| 2008 to 2010 | Change Programme Director, Corporate Services Centre, FCO |
| 2005 to 2008 | European Category Director, Coats Plc (based in Germany) |
| 1995 to 2005 | Sales and Marketing, later Central Europe Marketing Manager, Coats Plc (based in Germany) |
Chesney’s previous roles include leadership positions in counter-terrorism and public safety, reflecting her expertise in managing complex security issues. Her experience in various regions, including Somalia and Afghanistan, has prepared her well for her new role in Uganda.
The Transition
Kate Airey OBE has served as the British High Commissioner to Uganda since November 2020. During her tenure, she focused on strengthening UK-Uganda relations in areas such as trade, security, and development. The reason for her transfer has not been specified in the announcement.
Media Enquiries
For further information, media representatives can contact the FCDO Communication Team via email or telephone:
- Email: newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk
- Telephone: 020 7008 3100
