Matt Clifford, a prominent tech investor who played a significant role in shaping the UK government’s artificial intelligence strategy, has accepted a senior position at the US-based AI firm Anthropic. Clifford will serve as the company's managing director for international affairs, a role that involves leading Anthropic’s interactions with government bodies outside of the United States, specifically focusing on the UK, Europe, India, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Clifford’s transition to the private sector follows his brief tenure as an unpaid AI opportunities adviser to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He stepped down from that government post six months after his appointment, citing personal reasons. Despite leaving his formal government advisory role, Clifford is expected to maintain his position as chair of the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), a public body funded by the UK government to support high-risk, high-reward scientific research.

The move highlights the ongoing movement of talent between government policy circles and the rapidly expanding AI industry. Anthropic, a major competitor in the generative AI space, is actively seeking to navigate complex international regulatory environments, and Clifford’s background in both tech investment and government policy is seen as a strategic asset for the company’s global expansion efforts. While his new role focuses on international affairs, his continued involvement with ARIA ensures he remains connected to the UK’s domestic research and innovation landscape.