Departing Ambassador to Ireland to Remain in Dublin, Embarking on New Career
Paul Johnston, the outgoing British ambassador to Ireland, recently announced a significant personal decision: he and his wife, Nicola, will be establishing permanent residency in Dublin following the conclusion of his diplomatic posting in September.This move signifies a departure from his 35-year career within the UK public service, opting instead for a new, non-diplomatic role within the Irish capital.
A Fond Farewell and a New Beginning
The announcement was made during a celebratory garden party hosted at the ambassador’s residence, commemorating the birthday of King Charles and attended by approximately 700 guests. Mr. Johnston framed the decision as a direct result of the warmth and connection he and his wife experienced with the Irish people. He eloquently referenced Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy, quoting his observation that “people are the lights of every city,” emphasizing that the relationships forged during his time in Ireland were the most rewarding aspect of his tenure.
“Nicola and I have truly fallen in love with Dublin,” Johnston stated, eliciting applause from the assembled guests. “This affection has led us to the exciting prospect of beginning a new chapter in our lives, right here in Ireland.”
A Distinguished Career Transitioning
Mr. Johnston, 57, originally hails from Scotland and commenced his civil service journey in 1990 with the UK Ministry of Defense. He transitioned to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1993, steadily progressing through various diplomatic positions. Prior to his 2020 appointment as ambassador to Ireland,he served as the UK’s ambassador to Sweden (2011-2016) and held the role of Deputy Permanent Representative to NATO (2016-2017).
His time in Ireland coincided with a period of considerable complexity in British-Irish relations, notably navigating the challenges presented by the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union and the global Covid-19 pandemic. The ambassador played a key role in managing these sensitive issues, often at the forefront of delicate diplomatic negotiations. As of June 2025, Ireland’s trade with the UK remains a significant economic factor, with the UK accounting for approximately 15% of Ireland’s total exports [[1]].
Future Endeavors and Continued Connection
While Mr. Johnston remained tight-lipped regarding the specifics of his future employment, he indicated that it is indeed a non-diplomatic position in Dublin and is currently awaiting final approval from the UK government. He expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating that he and his wife “couldn’t be more happy” with their decision. This move represents not just a career change, but a deliberate choice to integrate into the community that so profoundly impacted them during their time as representatives of the United kingdom.
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