Oliver Wright (diplomat)

Sir Oliver Wright (9 March 1921 – 13 March 2009) was a British diplomat who served as Ambassador to West Germany and Ambassador to the United States.

Wright joined the Foreign Office in 1946, after service in the Second World War with the Royal Artillery, where he achieved the rank of Captain. He initially focused on economic affairs, serving in the economic intelligence department and later in the cabinet office.

His overseas postings included Washington D.C., where he served in the British Embassy during the 1950s and early 1960s. He later served as Ambassador to Denmark from 1966 to 1969.

Wright's most prominent appointments were as Ambassador to West Germany from 1977 to 1981, and as Ambassador to the United States from 1982 to 1986. His tenure in Washington coincided with a period of close Anglo-American relations under Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, during which he played a significant role in maintaining and strengthening the alliance. He was known for his intellect, his understanding of economic issues, and his ability to navigate the complexities of international diplomacy.

Following his retirement from the diplomatic service, Wright held a number of positions in business and academia. He was a director of Midland Bank and an honorary fellow of University College, Oxford. He also wrote extensively on international relations and diplomacy.

He was knighted in 1979 (KCMG) and later received the GCMG in 1984.