Richard Cowin
Biography
Richard Cowin began his role as British Consul General, Queensland and Northern Territory and Country Director for Trade and Investment, Australia in January 2023. He leads the UK Government’s Department for International Trade’s work across Australia.
Richard was the Counsellor for Healthcare and Life Sciences at the British Embassy in Beijing from 2019-2022. He was responsible for promoting trade and investment between the UK and China across pharmaceuticals, medical devices and healthcare. Richard led a team of 19 that supported British companies export to China and Chinese companies wanting to invest in the UK.
From 2018 Richard was First Secretary for Heath Policy and Programmes in Beijing. In previous diplomatic roles Richard has served in Vietnam, Korea and Japan covering political, economic and trade issues. In 2021 Richard was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his contribution to the UK’s fight against Covid-19.
Consul General for Queensland & the Northern Territory and Country Trade Director for Australia
The Consul General is the senior UK official in a Consulate General, which is a subordinate office to the Embassy or High Commission, usually located in another major city. The Consul General represents the UK government and is typically responsible for consular, visa and trade activities in their city or region.