Kevin Rudd Returns to Lead Asia Society, Exiting Key Diplomatic Post

Kevin Rudd, the former Australian Prime Minister serving as his nation's ambassador to the United States, will leave his diplomatic role to become president of the Asia Society. Rudd will lead the prominent international organization dedicated to education and policy in Asia. He is expected to start later this year. The move marks a major career shift for Rudd, a fluent Mandarin speaker and longtime China expert. His appointment highlights the Asia Society's focus on navigating complex U.S.-China relations. Rudd became ambassador to Washington in 2023. The Australian government will now name his replacement. The Asia Society is a non-profit with centers across the globe. Its leaders are often former senior officials and diplomats.