Elizabeth (Lizzie) McKinnell MBE
Biography
Lizzie arrived as Deputy Head of Mission in Brussels in January 2025.
Since joining the Diplomatic Service in 2008, Lizzie has done a range of political, communication, security and corporate roles. Her overseas postings include Uganda, Somalia, Pakistan and Nigeria. Lizzie has also worked in Brussels, when she was the UK Spokesperson to the EU from 2017-2018. Lizzie speaks French and Dutch.
Deputy Head of Mission, Belgium
The Deputy Head of Mission is a senior diplomat and typically a key advisor to the Ambassador or High Commissioner. The Deputy is responsible for the daily management of an overseas Embassy or High Commission. They will represent the UK’s interests in the absence of the Ambassador as Chargé d’Affaires. A senior ranking Deputy may also take the title Minister. Smaller missions may not have a Deputy Head.