Thomas A. Shannon

Former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. Current Senior International Policy Advisor at Arnold & Porter, in Washington, DC,  playing a leadership role in the firm's Global Law and Public Policy practice, where he advises clients on international policy and strategic issues. Ambassador Shannon has held numerous senior leadership positions at the State Department and US Missions overseas, serving with distinction in public service for 35 years. Prior to his role as Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, the third highest ranking position at the US State Department, he was Counselor of the State Department. He also served as the United States Ambassador to Brazil, Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, and Special Assistant to the President at the National Security Council, among other postings. During his career as a Foreign Service Officer, he rose to the rank of Career Ambassador, and was the highest ranking member of our professional diplomatic corps.