Richard Shackleton MBE took up his role as His Majesty’s Consul General in Houston in April 2026, leading the UK’s engagement across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and New Mexico. His work focuses on strengthening political, commercial, and cultural ties, with a particular emphasis on trade and investment, as well as science and innovation partnerships.

A career diplomat, Richard joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1990 and has held senior diplomatic and commercial roles worldwide. His postings have included New York, Bogotá, Sofia, Mexico City, Helsinki, Budapest, and Berne, alongside roles in London focused on climate change, energy security, and national security issues.

He was awarded an MBE in 2000 for his work in Colombia and has also held leadership roles with the British Council. Richard is accompanied in Houston by his partner, Pedro Ruiz.