John Edwards

Biography

John was one of 9 Trade Commissioners appointed by the British government to promote the UK in important global markets. As the head of the Department for Business and Trade in China, John was in charge of all bilateral trade issues and worked closely with His Majesty’s Ambassador in Beijing to promote UK trade and prosperity.

John has more than 25 years of experience working for the UK government, with 15 years spent in China including as:

• HM Consul General in Shanghai (2015 to 2019)
• Minister Counsellor at the British Embassy (2012 to 2015)

In his previous roles in China, John has led teams across China dealing with science and innovation, energy, climate change and health policy. As Consul General in Shanghai he was responsible for the trade and investment relationship across East China. In his most recent role as Deputy Trade Commissioner he was responsible for the advanced manufacturing, Tech, education, life sciences and healthcare sectors.

Outside of China, John was the speechwriter for 3 Foreign Secretaries and was the Deputy Consul General in Jerusalem.