Mark Burnett, the influential television producer behind ‘The Apprentice,’ has been named by President-elect Donald Trump as a special envoy to the United Kingdom. Burnett’s appointment underscores Trump’s strategy of recruiting prominent figures with media backgrounds to serve in his administration.

Burnett, a London native, is credited with producing major television successes, including ‘Survivor’ and ‘The Voice.’ Despite severing ties with NBC in 2015, Burnett’s collaboration with Trump on ‘The Apprentice’ significantly bolstered Trump’s public persona, paving the way for his political ascent.

The selection of Burnett continues Trump’s trend of appointing media-savvy individuals to diplomatic roles, potentially overlapping with Warren Stephens’ traditional ambassadorial duties. Burnett will aim to strengthen US-UK relations, focusing on trade and cultural ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)