Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced new career ventures, revealing that he will take on two prestigious roles at Oxford University and Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. This marks a new phase in Sunak’s professional journey, one that takes him closer to his California ties and offers him a unique opportunity to address global challenges in technology, economy, and security.

A philosophy, politics, and economics major from Oxford University, Sunak holds an MBA from Stanford. He expressed excitement at the opportunity to contribute to both institutions: “I look forward to contributing to their world-class work addressing the challenges and technological opportunities of our time,” Sunak said, reflecting on the significant role these universities have played in shaping his career.

Stanford’s Hoover Institution and Oxford’s Blavatnik School

He will become a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford University where he will be working on matters of global security, technology, and the economy. On the other hand, Oxford will engage him as a Distinguished Fellow at the Blavatnik School of Government. Neither role is paid but Stanford will bear all his costs so there won’t be a conflict of interest with his being a backbench MP for Richmond and Northallerton.

Sunak’s California Connection

Sunak’s connection to California runs deep. Not only did he study at Stanford, where he met his wife, Akshata Murty, but he also previously spent time in the state running his hedge fund, Theleme Partners, in Santa Monica. The couple’s ties to California remain strong, as they continue to own a $7.2 million beach home in Santa Monica. This luxurious penthouse overlooks both the Pacific Ocean and the Malibu mountains, and it was the site of a family holiday in 2023, where Sunak joined a Taylor Swift-themed SoulCycle class.

Given his open affection for California, there had been speculation about Sunak relocating there permanently. However, in a 2024 interview with ITV, Sunak vehemently denied the rumors. “It’s simply not true. I am committed to staying in the UK,” he stated, reinforcing his ties to his home country and his political duties.

Sunak’s Santa Monica Penthouse

Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, bought the penthouse in 2014, located in the upscale condominium with only four penthouses, including one bedroom with ocean views. Located in a 65-unit building, the building provides amenities, such as a sky lounge and a pet spa, in addition to all of the common luxuries and exclusivities in such an estate. According to sources, Rishi Sunak loves to visit his penthouse during the Easter holidays to spend quality time in their Californian home.