In a rare but refreshing move, former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has joined Goldman Sachs as a senior advisor, marking his formal return to the private sector after leaving the highest office. His decision has sparked conversation worldwide about political leaders who re-enter professional life rather than resting on influence or legacy. In politics, the saying often goes, “once in, always in.” In India especially, public office tends to become a family affair, where most leaders’ children often inherit the mantle rather than seek independent careers. But some figures, like Sunak, choose a different path—stepping back into regular work, setting an example of continued contribution, personal growth, and honest earning after public service.While such transitions can set powerful examples, they are not without controversy. Some former leaders have drawn criticism for their post-office roles, especially when those positions appear to blur the line between public service and personal gain. David Cameron, for instance, faced a major backlash for lobbying on behalf of Greensill Capital, where he held a financial stake. These cases highlight both the promise and pitfalls of life after high office—where intentions, transparency, and ethics matter as much as ambition.
World leaders who returned to work after holding high public office
Barack Obama — from President to producer and foundation leader
After completing his second term as US President in 2017, Barack Obama chose not to re-enter political office, instead pivoting to media and philanthropy. In 2018, he and Michelle Obama launched Higher Ground Productions, a media company focused on telling inclusive, thoughtful stories. That same year, they signed a landmark multiyear deal with Netflix, reportedly worth $50 million, according to The New York Times. The Obamas stated that their goal was to “promote greater empathy and understanding between people,” using storytelling as a vehicle for change. One of their early projects, the documentary American Factory, won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2020.Beyond media, the couple has been deeply involved with the Obama Foundation, a nonprofit established in 2014. The foundation spearheads initiatives such as the Obama Leadership Academy, the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, and the development of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. According to the foundation’s official site and Politico, the Obamas see this post-presidency phase as a way to “inspire, empower, and connect the next generation of leaders.” By stepping into storytelling and civic mentorship rather than traditional lobbying or consulting, Obama has redefined what a former president’s legacy can look like in the 21st century.
Angela Merkel — academic return after leading Germany
Following her 16-year tenure as Germany’s Chancellor (2005 to 2021), Angela Merkel stepped away from public office entirely. In 2023, she began giving lectures on geopolitics at the prestigious College of Europe in Bruges and published her memoirs. Unlike many European politicians who often become consultants or board members, Merkel consciously avoided the corporate world and chose a more intellectual route, re-engaging with the academic and strategic discourse that once shaped her.
David Cameron — from 10 Downing Street to global finance
After resigning as UK Prime Minister in 2016, David Cameron re-entered the private sector, joining First Data Corporation as an advisor. But it was his role with Greensill Capital, a now-defunct financial firm, that sparked major controversy. Cameron lobbied senior officials, including then-Chancellor Rishi Sunak, to grant Greensill access to a government COVID loan scheme (CCFF). Though the request was denied, his private texts and lobbying efforts drew sharp criticism.A parliamentary inquiry and an official review followed, exposing how deeply involved Cameron was in advocating for a firm in which he held a financial stake. The collapse of Greensill in 2021, which caused widespread job losses, further damaged his standing. While Cameron insisted he broke no rules, the scandal reignited debates over lobbying ethics and the boundaries former leaders should maintain in the business world.
Al Gore — green tech entrepreneur and Nobel laureate
Former US Vice President Al Gore (1993 to 2001) became one of the world’s most prominent environmental advocates after leaving office. He co-founded Generation Investment Management, a firm focusing on sustainable investing, and played a key role in climate change advocacy. His 2006 documentary An Inconvenient Truth won an Academy Award, and he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. Gore proved that a former VP could transition from politics to global leadership in science and business.
Dan Quayle — private equity and legal advisory
After his tenure as US Vice President under George H. W. Bush, Dan Quayle chose not to return to politics. He entered the private sector and eventually became chairman of Cerberus Global Investments, a major private equity firm. Quayle’s move into high finance marked a successful shift from public service to boardroom leadership, maintaining influence without a political office.
Julia Gillard — education advocate and global health leader
Australia’s first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, stepped down in 2013 and has since become a major voice in global education and women’s leadership. She became Chair of the Global Partnership for Education, and later Chair of Wellcome Trust, one of the world’s largest research foundations. Gillard also teaches, writes, and engages in policy advisory roles, reinforcing her belief that public service continues outside parliament.
Nick Clegg — from deputy PM to Meta executive
After serving as the UK’s Deputy Prime Minister in the coalition government (2010 to 2015), Nick Clegg shifted dramatically from politics to tech. In 2018, he joined Facebook (now Meta) as Vice President of Global Affairs and Communications, and by 2022, he was promoted to President of Global Affairs. At Meta, he’s responsible for shaping policy, regulation, and global messaging, a powerful position in one of the world’s most influential companies.
Sebastian Pinera — business mogul turned president (and back again)
Chilean leader Sebastián Piñera, who served two non-consecutive terms as President (2010 to 2014 and 2018 to 2022), was already a billionaire businessman before entering politics. After leaving office, he returned to overseeing his investments in airlines, real estate, and television networks. While controversial for mixing politics and business, Piñera represents a clear example of a leader returning to work rather than extending a political career indefinitely.
Matteo Renzi — from Italian PM to think tank leader and columnist
After stepping down as Italy’s Prime Minister in 2016, Matteo Renzi remained politically active for a while but later pivoted toward public speaking and think tank work. He launched the Florence-based think tank Fondazione Open, wrote political commentary, and gave lectures internationally. Renzi also became a regular columnist and political analyst on Italian television, demonstrating a shift from governance to public discourse and thought leadership.