Penny Mordaunt – a name that has consistently commanded attention in British politics, not just for her prominent ministerial roles but also for her distinctive public presence and resilience. From her military background to her high-profile appearances in Parliament and her spirited bids for the Conservative Party leadership, Mordaunt has carved out a unique and often unpredictable path. This article will delve into the remarkable career of Penny Mordaunt, exploring her journey from a Royal Naval Reservist to a senior government minister, her defining moments in public service, and the latest trends and future prospects that continue to define her impactful presence in the UK.

Early Life and Unexpected Paths to Public Service

Born Penelope Mary Mordaunt in Torquay, Devon, in 1973, Penny Mordaunt’s early life was marked by a strong sense of duty and a varied pre-political career. She attended Oaklands Roman Catholic School in Waterlooville before studying Philosophy at the University of Reading. Before entering Parliament, Mordaunt held a range of roles, including working as a press officer for the Royal British Legion and as Head of Broadcasting for the Conservative Party. Notably, she also worked as an aid worker in Romania, experiences that she has often cited as foundational to her understanding of public service and international development.

Perhaps one of the most distinctive aspects of her background is her service as a Royal Naval Reservist, a role she held for ten years, reaching the rank of Acting Sub-Lieutenant and now holding an honorary Captaincy. This military background has profoundly shaped her disciplined approach to politics and her deep interest in defence and security matters, giving her a unique perspective within the Conservative Party. Her appearance on the ITV reality diving show Splash! in 2014, while a sitting MP, also showcased her willingness to embrace unexpected challenges and displayed a side of her personality that transcended traditional political boundaries, briefly capturing the public’s imagination.

Rising Through the Ranks: Ministerial Roles and Key Portfolios

Penny Mordaunt’s political career began in earnest when she was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth North in 2010. Her rise within government was steady and marked by a series of significant appointments, often breaking new ground for women in British politics.

She served in various junior ministerial roles before being promoted to the Cabinet by Theresa May in 2017 as Secretary of State for International Development. In this role, she focused on ensuring UK aid was effectively spent and held aid organisations to account, notably during the Oxfam scandal in Haiti. Her commitment to global prosperity and responsible aid spending became a hallmark of her tenure.

In 2019, Mordaunt made history again when she was appointed Secretary of State for Defence, becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious and challenging position. While her time in this role was brief, ending with Boris Johnson’s ascension to Prime Minister, it cemented her credentials as a serious contender in high-level government portfolios. Following her departure from government under Johnson, she later re-entered as Paymaster General in 2020, focusing on civil contingencies and cyber security, and subsequently as Minister of State for Trade Policy in 2021, where she played a crucial role in forging new international trade agreements post-Brexit. Her ability to navigate complex briefs and articulate Britain’s position on the global stage underscored her growing influence.

Leadership Bids and the Coronation Moment

Penny Mordaunt’s ambition for higher office became evident during the tumultuous period of Conservative Party leadership contests in 2022. She launched two spirited bids for the leadership, first in July–September 2022 following Boris Johnson’s resignation, where she ultimately finished third behind Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. Her second attempt came swiftly in October 2022 after Liz Truss’s short-lived premiership, though she withdrew before the final ballot, paving the way for Rishi Sunak’s ascension. During these campaigns, Mordaunt distinguished herself with a calm demeanour, clear communication, and a focus on unity and competency, which resonated with a significant portion of the Conservative membership and public.

However, it was her ceremonial role as Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons under both Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak that truly propelled her into the global public consciousness. In this capacity, she played a highly visible and critically acclaimed role at the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in May 2023. Mordaunt became an unexpected star of the ceremony, particularly for her stoic and impressive feat of carrying the 17th-century Sword of State, weighing approximately 8 pounds, for an extended period, and later exchanging it for the Jewelled Sword of Offering. Her elegant attire and poised performance garnered widespread praise from across the political spectrum and became a major talking point on social media, demonstrating her unique ability to command attention and respect on a grand, national stage. This moment encapsulated her blend of tradition, strength, and unwavering commitment to duty.

Post-Parliamentary Career and Latest Trends in 2025

A significant development in Penny Mordaunt’s career in late 2024 and early 2025 was her departure from Parliament. She lost her seat as Member of Parliament for Portsmouth North in the 2024 general election to Labour’s Amanda Martin. This loss, while marking an end to her 14-year parliamentary career, has not diminished her public profile or her engagement in national and international affairs.

As of mid-2025, Mordaunt has embarked on a dynamic post-parliamentary career, which is keenly followed by those interested in her future contributions:

Chair of the Coalition for Global Prosperity

In January 2025, Mordaunt took on the role of Chairman of the Board for the Coalition for Global Prosperity. This non-profit organisation advocates for the UK’s role as a global leader in development, defence, and diplomacy, particularly emphasising the importance of the transatlantic partnership. This role allows her to continue influencing international policy and promoting British interests on a global scale.

Advisory Roles with Private Companies

Demonstrating her versatility and expertise, Mordaunt has taken on part-time paid advisory roles with private companies. Notably, in April 2025, it was announced she had joined British American Tobacco’s “transformation advisory board,” a move that drew some discussion regarding former ministers taking roles with controversial industries. She is also involved with Sub Sea Craft Limited, a Portsmouth-based engineering company specializing in maritime technology. These roles indicate her transition into leveraging her extensive government and international trade experience in the private sector.

Documentary and Media Projects

Mordaunt is reportedly planning to produce and appear in a series of short films about Ukraine, titled “Do Not Look Away.” This project highlights her continued interest in global affairs and her capacity to engage with important issues through media. Her unique public speaking style, often described as “powerful, incisive, and witty,” continues to make her a sought-after speaker at conferences and events, further maintaining her public profile.

Continued Speculation on Future Political Ambitions

 Despite losing her parliamentary seat, there remains ongoing speculation about Penny Mordaunt’s long-term political ambitions. Given her relatively young age (52 in 2025) and her significant public profile, many observers believe she may seek a return to front-line politics at some point, perhaps even a renewed leadership bid if the opportunity arises. This ongoing speculation keeps her name in political discussions, particularly within the Conservative Party.

Public Image and Enduring Appeal

Penny Mordaunt’s public image is multifaceted. She is admired for her poise, intellect, and perceived authenticity. Her direct communication style, often devoid of typical political jargon, resonates with many. Her commitment to duty, exemplified by her military background and her coronation performance, has garnered significant respect. She is seen as a capable and serious politician, yet also possessing a refreshing lack of pretension.

She has successfully cultivated a personal brand that combines traditional Conservative values with a modern, approachable demeanour. Her social media presence is active, often sharing insights into her work and occasionally offering glimpses of her personal interests, such as her love for astronomy. This blend of professionalism and relatability has contributed to her enduring appeal across different segments of the British public, making her one of the most recognisable and often discussed figures in recent UK political history.

FAQs

What was Penny Mordaunt’s role at King Charles III’s Coronation?

Penny Mordaunt, as Lord President of the Council, played a prominent ceremonial role at King Charles III’s Coronation in May 2023, where she notably carried the Sword of State for an extended period.

Has Penny Mordaunt ever run for leader of the Conservative Party?

Yes, Penny Mordaunt made two bids for the leadership of the Conservative Party in 2022, following the resignations of Boris Johnson and Liz Truss, but she was unsuccessful in both attempts.

What was Penny Mordaunt’s last role in government before losing her seat?

Before losing her seat in the 2024 general election, Penny Mordaunt served as Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons from 2022.

What is Penny Mordaunt doing now (as of 2025)?

As of 2025, Penny Mordaunt is the Chairman of the Board for the Coalition for Global Prosperity, holds advisory roles with companies like British American Tobacco and Sub Sea Craft Limited, and is involved in documentary and media projects.

What is Penny Mordaunt’s background before politics?

Before entering politics, Penny Mordaunt worked as a press officer, an aid worker in Romania, and served as a Royal Naval Reservist for ten years. She also appeared on the reality TV show Splash!

Final Thought

Penny Mordaunt has navigated the often-turbulent waters of British politics with a distinct blend of composure, capability, and public flair. From her trailblazing roles in defence and international development to her memorable turn at the King’s Coronation, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to public service and a unique ability to capture national attention. While her parliamentary chapter has closed for now, her transition into impactful advisory and media roles suggests a continued influence on national and global conversations. Penny Mordaunt remains a compelling and resilient figure whose journey exemplifies adaptability and the enduring power of a clear and principled voice in the ever-evolving landscape of British public life.

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