James Abbott Thompson began his career in the world of international diplomacy, quickly gaining a reputation for his sharp intellect and negotiation skills. Born into a family with a strong tradition of public service, he attended the City of London School and the SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College, later earning both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Law from Cambridge University. These academic achievements provided a solid foundation for his future roles in government and beyond.
His early diplomatic assignments included working with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. Thompson’s talent propelled him to significant positions, such as First Secretary at the British Embassy in Rome. There, he led crucial trade and commercial negotiations during the Brexit transition, engaging with Italian ministries, business leaders, and international partners to ensure smooth relations between the UK and Italy. He managed the Italy Network Prosperity Fund, overseeing projects that promoted economic growth and transparency.
Thompson’s diplomatic reach extended further. He played a pivotal role in the China Bilateral Team, organising high-level state visits, including the visit of President Xi Jinping to the UK. He also contributed to Middle East peace policy and arms export compliance, especially regarding the Yemen conflict. These experiences refined his ability to manage complex, high-stakes negotiations and cultivated a profound understanding of international law, policy, and technical systems.
What Drove His Transition from Diplomacy to Data Protection Consulting?
After a successful diplomatic career, James Abbott Thompson made a bold move into the private sector. In July 2019, he joined HewardMills, a leading global Data Protection Office, as a consultant. This transition surprised many, but it made sense given his background in law, policy, and international relations. At HewardMills, he advises multinational clients on data protection, privacy compliance, and risk management.
Thompson’s diplomatic skills translated seamlessly into the world of data governance. He became known for his ability to bridge the gap between legal, technical, and regulatory teams. His work involves helping companies navigate complex regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), designing privacy-by-design frameworks, and ensuring compliance across multiple jurisdictions. He also delivers training sessions, authors thought leadership articles, and plays a key role in HewardMills achieving B Corp certification, emphasising ethical business practices and social responsibility.
His unique perspective, combining policy insight, legal expertise, and technical understanding, has made him a sought-after consultant in the rapidly evolving field of data protection. Thompson’s journey from international diplomacy to data privacy consulting highlights his adaptability and commitment to integrity in both the public and private sectors.
Can Resilience Define a Leader’s Legacy?
James Abbott Thompson’s professional journey has not been without personal challenges. His struggles with mental health and addiction became public following a series of incidents, including an altercation with police officers that led to his arrest. These events, attributed to drug-induced psychosis, temporarily disrupted his career and brought attention to the pressures faced by high-achieving professionals.
Despite these setbacks, Thompson’s resilience has been remarkable. With strong support from his family, including his mother, British MP Diane Abbott, he has focused on recovery and rebuilding his life. He continues to work as a consultant at HewardMills, demonstrating that personal adversity does not define one’s entire story. Instead, his openness about mental health challenges has contributed to a broader conversation about well-being in high-pressure careers.
Thompson’s experience underscores the importance of support systems and the need for mental health awareness in demanding professions. His journey serves as a reminder that leadership is not only about professional achievements but also about personal growth, empathy, and the courage to seek help when needed.
What Sets James Abbott Thompson Apart in the World of Data Protection?
James Abbott Thompson stands out for his ability to integrate lessons from diplomacy, law, and technology into his consulting work. At HewardMills, he helps organisations develop robust data governance structures, conduct risk assessments, and implement compliance strategies tailored to global standards. His approach emphasises privacy-by-design, ethical accountability, and the importance of building trust in digital systems.
He is also active in community initiatives, serving as a strategy consultant for Protect Black Women, where he works to combat misogynoir and provide counselling services. As a board member at Flat 70 C.I.C., he advises on policy and legal matters for a community arts organisation, reflecting his commitment to social impact beyond the corporate world.
Thompson’s story is a testament to the power of reinvention. His journey from diplomacy to data protection consulting illustrates the value of interdisciplinary expertise and the importance of adapting to new challenges. He continues to shape the fields of data privacy and compliance, inspiring others with his vision, resilience, and dedication to ethical leadership.
James Abbott Thompson’s Journey Leads Next
James Abbott Thompson remains a consultant at HewardMills, focusing on international privacy compliance and risk architecture. As data regulation continues to evolve, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and cross-border data flows, his expertise is increasingly in demand. Whether consulting on platform design, advising on AI law, or mentoring future leaders, Thompson’s influence is set to grow.
His career exemplifies the importance of lifelong learning and the courage to embrace change. James Abbott Thompson’s remarkable journey from diplomat to consultant offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of the modern professional world.