Burnett ‘will work to enhance diplomatic relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including trade … and cultural exchanges,’ Trump said.
Award-winning British television producer Mark Burnett has been named by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as U.S. Special Envoy to the United Kingdom in the second Trump administration.
“With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role,” Trump said in a Saturday Truth Social post about the producer he formerly worked with on “The Apprentice,” which first aired on NBC in 2004. Trump severed ties with NBC in 2015 when he launched his first bid for the White House.
“Mark will work to enhance diplomatic relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges. Congratulations Mark!” Trump said.
The United Kingdom has long enjoyed “special relationship” status with the United States and is considered one of Washington’s strongest global allies.
Burnett is expected to join Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Britain, billionaire investment banker Warren Stephens, in London, once Stephens is confirmed by the Senate.
Burnett, a 13-time Emmy Award winner, is also responsible for creating top-rated TV shows including “Survivor,“ ”Shark Tank,“ and ”The Voice.”
His ratings-winning “The Apprentice” partnership with Trump presented Trump Tower to tens of millions of people as a symbol of willpower and success before Trump launched his first campaign from the building’s lobby.
The show aided Trump in his unexpected win in 2016 to become the 45th President of the United States—one of the biggest political upsets in modern U.S. history.
Trump on Saturday listed a number of other appointments for his upcoming term.
He nominated “fifth generation railroader” David Fink as the next administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
“David will bring his 45+ years of transportation leadership and success, which will deliver the FRA into a new era of safety and technological innovation,” Trump said of the industry that is facing challenges from aging infrastructure, shifts in the freight market, and increased safety scrutiny following accidents like the East Palestine, Ohio, derailment of 2023.
“Under David’s guidance, the Federal Railroad Administration will be GREAT again.”
Casino magnate Tilman Fertitta was nominated by Trump for U.S. ambassador to Italy, pending Senate confirmation, and Chad Mizelle for chief of staff at the Department of Justice. Mizelle was general counsel and chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security during the first Trump administration.
“Chad is a MAGA warrior, who will help bring accountability, integrity, and Justice back to the DOJ,” Trump said on Truth Social.
The president-elect also threw his endorsement behind Florida state Sen. Joe Gruters for the position of RNC treasurer.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.