Professor of Grand Strategy at Yale University, Former MP & Cabinet Minister, Founded the Turquoise Mountain Foundation, Award-Winning Author of ‘The Marches’, Co-Host of ‘The Rest Is Politics’ Podcast & OBE Recipient

Rory Stewart is a distinguished figure with a wealth of experience and stories that captivate audiences. Currently the Brady-Johnson Professor of Grand Strategy at Yale University, Rory Stewart’s career spans roles as a UK cabinet minister, diplomat, and MP for Penrith and the Border. Rory Stewart’s service in Iraq and Afghanistan, combined with his tenure as a professor at Harvard University, has equipped him with unique insights and perspectives.

Rory Stewart is an accomplished author, with several bestselling books to his name. These include “The Marches,” which explores the history of Cumbria. Also the BBC documentary “Borderland.” His current role at Yale and his co-hosting of the UK’s top podcast, “The Rest Is Politics,” with Alastair Campbell, keep him at the forefront of contemporary political discourse.

Politics:
Rory Stewart’s previous roles include UK Secretary of State for International Development, Minister of State for Justice, and Minister of State in the Foreign Office and DFID. He covered regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Rory Stewart has also served as Minister for the Environment and Chair of the House of Commons Defence Select Committee.

Rory Stewart’s journey began with a brief stint as an infantry officer before joining the UK Diplomatic Service. His overseas service saw him in Jakarta and as the British representative to Montenegro during the Kosovo crisis. This followed by his role as coalition Deputy-Governor of two provinces in Southern Iraq, provided him with profound experiences. His two-year walk across Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Nepal further enriched his understanding of global cultures and also global conflicts.

In 2005, Rory Stewart founded the Turquoise Mountain Foundation in Kabul. It was here he worked to restore a section of the old city. He also establish a clinic, a primary school, and an Arts Institute which brought Afghan crafts to international markets. His academic contributions continued as the Ryan Professor of Human Rights at the Harvard Kennedy School and Director of the Carr Centre for Human Rights Policy.

Rory Stewart’s diverse experiences and eloquent storytelling make him an exceptional after-dinner speaker, capable of engaging and inspiring any audience.

BOOKS:
Rory has also written four books: The Places in Between, Occupational Hazards or The Prince of the Marshes, Can Intervention Work? and The Marches. With a fifth that launched in September 2023 – Politics on the Edge. The book is a Sunday Times Number 1 bestseller and Book of the Year at the British Book Awards 2024.

Why Hire Rory Stewart?