Liberal Member of Parliament Chrystia Freeland has been confirmed to move to Oxford, England, next summer to assume a new role overseeing the Rhodes Trust, an educational charity renowned for its prestigious Rhodes Scholarship program. The announcement was made by the charity, appointing Freeland as the CEO of the Rhodes Trust and warden of Rhodes House on the University of Oxford campus, effective July 1.
Freeland, who has not indicated any plans to resign as an MP but has stated she will not seek re-election, expressed her honor in taking on this position with her alma mater in a press release from the Rhodes Trust. Having benefited from a Rhodes Scholarship herself in the early 1990s, where she studied Slavonic studies at the University of Oxford, Freeland emphasized the transformative impact of the scholarship on her international perspective and career trajectory.
Previously serving as the finance minister and deputy prime minister, Freeland is known for her advocacy for Ukraine and efforts to rebuild the country. She stepped down from her cabinet roles in September to focus on matters concerning the reconstruction of Ukraine. Throughout her political career, she has played key roles in trade negotiations, international relations, and economic policies, including navigating Canada through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Freeland’s appointment to lead the Rhodes Trust marks a significant transition in her career, as she prepares to relocate to the United Kingdom while maintaining her position as a Member of Parliament for the University-Rosedale riding in Toronto. Amid speculation about her future political plans, Freeland’s move to Oxford signals a new chapter in her professional journey.