Shannon Austin

Shannon Austin has extensive experience in international relations and legal advisory roles, currently serving as Principal Advisor People & Operations at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade since October 2007. Previous positions include Deputy High Commissioner and Acting High Commissioner at the New Zealand High Commission in London, as well as Deputy Head of Mission at the New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok. Austin has also held various unit manager roles and served as a legal advisor in trade law. Earlier career experiences include positions as a solicitor at Land Information New Zealand and Buddle Findlay, along with locum roles at Westminster City Council and BERNARD ELLISTON SANDLER & CO LLP. Academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Arts with Honours (1st Class) in English Literature, both from the University of Otago.