Christopher Alexander

Diplomatic service

Served as Canada's first resident ambassador to Afghanistan. The post was earlier done from neighbouring Pakistan, and was far from secure for Mr. Alexander – at first, the majority of embassy staff were guards.

Spent a total of six years in Afghanistan, most recently taking a leave from his Ottawa posting to serve as the deputy special representative for the United Nations Secretary-General.

Served two tours spanning a decade at the Canadian embassy in Moscow.

Languages spoken

Fluent in English, French, German and Russian, with some training in Farsi and Dari.

Youth appeal

Age: 41.

Named among Canada's Top 40 under 40 in 2005.

Named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

Background

Born and raised in Toronto.

Educated at McGill University and Oxford University, where he attended Balliol College and earned a master of arts degree in philosophy, politics and ethics.

Married to Hedvig Boserup. The couple met in Afghanistan, now live in Canada and have a young child. They both enjoy hiking. 

Source: The Globe and Mail