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22 January 2017 Abingdon Old Abingdonians OAs in the Diplomatic Service A handful of OAs are employed in the Diplomatic Service around the world. Here are three glimpses into the life of a diplomat. Matthew Lodge (1986) Having served as a Royal Marine for 9 years, I left the military and joined the Diplomatic Service, in order to travel and use my languages. In the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, nautical references became cricketing ones. Physical prowess became less important than intellectual capability. Real people and intractable problems in a complex world – it’s fascinating. Abingdon prepared me well: an expansive education; academic achievements balanced with life skills; exposure to different perspectives; and an encouragement of intellectual curiosity. I have issued visas in Yerevan, briefed the media at Thiepval, negotiated in Brussels, responded to crisis in Baghdad. I’m now Ambassador in Kuwait. Life as a diplomat is never dull. Kim Darroch (1972) I’ve been in the Diplomatic Service for 37 years. I joined by chance – the Service offered me a job before anyone else! Abingdon prepared me well by giving me a broad education, an interest in current affairs, and curiosity about the world. I still think fondly of my time there. I’ve had a fascinating Foreign Service career: postings in Tokyo, Rome, Brussels and now Washington. I was Ambassador to the EU, Prime Minister Cameron’s National Security Adviser, and now Ambassador to the US. These are also the greatest rewards – testing but wonderful jobs, full of great experiences. Diplomats are different. Some are great marketing managers for the UK, some great negotiators. Others help Brits in trouble overseas. Some have the opportunity to affect the lives of millions of people suffering from conflict and poverty – my recent work in Somalia, Sudan, DRC and Afghanistan gave me that chance. What does a diplomat need to succeed today? On my list are three things: commitment to making a difference, strong people skills and a love of innovation and challenge. Abingdon School helped develop all three. I didn’t leave wanting to be a diplomat; I worked abroad before joining the FCO aged 35. But Abingdon certainly shaped the diplomat I am today. Nick Kay (1976)