Sir James Duddridge KCMG is a values-driven strategic leader with extensive cross-sector experience in governance, financial services, infrastructure and international trade. A former Minister for Africa and Minister of State for International Trade in the government of the United Kingdom, he has a proven track record of navigating complex regulatory and geopolitical landscapes with integrity. His executive career includes a decade at Barclays, where he held senior roles in the UK and Africa—including C?te d’Ivoire and Botswana—overseeing retail banking, wealth management, and operational risk. He also brings significant entrepreneurial experience as a founding member and early investor in the global market research firm YouGov.
Currently the Vice Chairman for South Essex Homes, Sir Duddridge has chaired several high-profile parliamentary committees, including the Regulatory Reform Committee. He was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in recognition of his significant political and public service.
Sir Duddridge holds a BA (Hons) in Government from the University of Essex and maintains professional memberships with the Institute of Directors and the Chartered Institute of Bankers. His additional technical qualifications include certifications from the Securities Institute and the Chartered Insurance Institute and the Chartered Institute of Bankers.
