Mark Lancaster has been reappointed as the United Kingdom’s defence and security advocate, a role focused on promoting the success of domestic defense and security exports. His second term will last until March 2026.
Jonathan Reynolds, the secretary of state for business and trade, first appointed Lancaster to the position in January 2023. The responsibilities of the Defence and Security Advocate include visiting businesses locally and internationally to promote U.K.-made defense solutions. Advocating for the sale of British-manufactured technologies align with the Industrial Strategy’s objective of achieving strong national security and fostering a high-performing economy.
Priot to his appointment in the British defense ministry, Lancaster served as a colonel in the Army Reserves, participating in various operations, including Kosovo, Bosnia and Afghanistan. He was then elected as MP for North East Milton Keynes and later served as the U.K.’s minister of state for the armed forces.
Lancaster holds a degree in business studies from the University of Buckingham and an MBA from the University of Exeter Business School.