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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS - PETER MANN MBE OM '70
What is your profession and current position?
At present I am a trustee of the Commonwealth Bond Charitable Trust and Vice-President of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS), Hong Kong Branch. In the past I have been a police inspector and district officer/civil servant in Hong Kong, a consultant, part-time English teacher and writer, and Chairman of RCS, HK Branch.
How did Monkton get you ready for the world of work?
Monkton gave me discipline (getting up early and wearing detachable collars and cufflinks in the 60s!) and a work ethic/moral values from its Christian tradition. The emphasis on sports also made me healthy and taught me the value of teamwork.
What is your biggest professional achievement?
Among my most satisfying professional achievements are the Green Wan Chai Project where we planted 800 street trees in urban Hong Kong which had a big effect on the concrete jungle and was widely copied. Also, the introduction of an annual Commonwealth Cricket Cup in Hong Kong (involving Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa) to promote friendship between Commonwealth countries. Both projects were undertaken entirely on my own initiative.
What has been your most challenging professional moment?
One of the most challenging professional experiences I’ve faced has been navigating changing cultural perspectives in modern Britain. In particular, adapting to evolving diversity and inclusion policies and the reassessment of national history has been complex. While it’s important to acknowledge and learn from past mistakes, I believe it's equally important to recognise the positive aspects of British heritage and the values that have shaped our institutions. These shifts in narrative can make it more difficult to promote the Commonwealth as a positive and voluntary association of 56 nations, united by shared values such as a common language, legal principles, and traditions of tolerance and cooperation. Unfortunately, the Commonwealth is sometimes misunderstood or conflated with the colonial past, and this can overshadow the constructive role it plays today.
What inspires and motivates you at work?
I am inspired and motivated by trying to help people, to improve the way things are done and to make the world a better place.
What is one piece of advice you would like to share with pupils or OMs about getting into your profession?
My advice is that it doesn't really matter what job you start with - just get out there and get some experience. I had no idea what I wanted to do when I left Monkton, or University for that matter. Your education, character and passion to achieve are what is important. There is a lot of luck involved in your career path and you will be surprised what cards life deals you.