Iain Whitaker

Iain Whitaker rejoined the Council in 2026 and serves as executive director for strategy and engagement. In this role, he delivers the programming content and communications strategy and works to expand the reach and impact of the Council's work.

From 2014 to 2023, Whitaker held several roles in the Council’s programs team. As director for content strategy, he oversaw the team’s editorial process and calendar, and led the public programming stream. He delivered signature events including the Crown Lecture, national security roundtables, and corporate breakfasts. He produced the Council’s weekly update email, developed institutional partnerships to reach new audiences, and supported flagship forums, including Global Cities and the Global Food Security Symposium.
 
After leaving the Council, Whitaker joined the British Consulate in Chicago as a senior trade and investment officer for aerospace and space within the UK Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade. Previous roles include working in KPMG’s trade and customs services practice in Chicago and running the legislative office of a UK Member of Parliament at the House of Commons in London. Whitaker holds a BA in modern history from the University of St. Andrews (UK) and a master’s in international security from the University of Bristol (UK).