Alex Milward has been appointed His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for North America and His Majesty’s Consul General to New York, the Government has announced.
The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade confirmed the appointment, with Mr Milward due to take up the post in August 2026. He replaces Oliver Christian MVO, who has served as HM Trade Commissioner for North America since April 2025.
The Government said Mr Milward takes on the role at an important point in the UK’s relationship with North America. It cited the recently concluded UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal and said the trading relationship with the United States is worth $437 billion, or £332 billion.
Ministers also said the UK is a leading investor in more than 22 US states, including New York, Texas and Florida. With Canada, the Government pointed to opportunities arising from the UK’s accession to CPTPP and a bilateral trading relationship worth C$62 billion, or £34 billion.
Mr Milward brings more than 30 years of experience across the private and public sectors. His background spans digital, energy, defence, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing and professional services.
More recently, he has been head of the UK’s Carbon Capture programme at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. In his new role he will be supported by Deputy Trade Commissioner Alan Gogbashian and Deputy Consul General Mel Lawrence.
The HM Trade Commissioner for North America works with the wider diplomatic network and other government colleagues overseas to promote UK trade and prosperity. The Government said the post carries responsibility for coordinating those efforts across the region.