From PM to Tech: Sunak's New Journey with Microsoft and Anthropic

Rishi Sunak has embarked on an exciting new chapter, taking up advisory roles with tech behemoth Microsoft and innovative AI start-up Anthropic. Delighted to join forces with two of the world’s leading technology firms, Sunak announced his commitment to donating his earnings to The Richmond Project, a charity he co-founded to combat numeracy issues in the UK.

Despite the potential conflicts of interest, as highlighted by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), Sunak is determined to leverage his experience. His role with Microsoft involves providing high-level strategic insights into the geopolitical dynamics that influence the tech industry. Meanwhile, his advisory position at Anthropic—an AI company vying for a competitive edge against industry titans like OpenAI and Google—is similar to functioning as an internal think tank.

Acoba expressed concerns that both appointments could give Sunak an unfair advantage in influencing UK government policy, particularly with regards to technological regulations that were central to his premiership, during which he prioritized AI safety and regulation. As per Acoba’s advice, Sunak is prohibited from lobbying ministers on behalf of either company or advising on government contracts for two years following his departure from ministerial office.

In addition to these tech roles, Sunak will also serve as a paid advisor to Goldman Sachs, where he previously worked early in his career. Despite speculation of moving permanently to Silicon Valley, Sunak reassured his constituents that he remains committed to spending time in his Yorkshire constituency, dubbing it “the greatest place on Earth.”

With plans to ensure that upcoming technological advancements benefit society as a whole, Sunak emphasized the transformative power of technology, likening its upcoming impacts to that of the Industrial Revolution. His proactive approach reflects his belief in the potential of technology to significantly enhance our daily lives.