Tom Standage is a dynamic and thought-provoking motivational speaker whose rare combination of historical insight, editorial expertise, and technological understanding offers audiences a powerful new lens through which to view the world. As Deputy Editor of The Economist and Editor of its future-focused annual, The World Ahead, Tom has spent decades identifying and explaining the forces shaping our global future. His ability to distil complex trends into engaging, accessible stories makes him an invaluable voice for organisations navigating change, innovation, and uncertainty.
With a background in engineering and computer science from Oxford University, Tom began his career as a science and technology journalist, writing for The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph, where he served as Deputy Editor of the technology supplement. In 1998, he joined The Economist as a science correspondent, and over the years, rose through the editorial ranks to become Technology Editor, Business Editor, Digital Editor, and ultimately Deputy Editor. Along the way, he has spearheaded major editorial initiatives, including the launch of The Economist Espresso, a daily news app, and the development of digital-first strategies for one of the world’s most respected publications.
Tom is also the bestselling author of seven acclaimed history books, including ‘The Victorian Internet’, ‘Writing on the Wall’, and ‘A History of the World in 6 Glasses’, a New York Times bestseller. His writing specialises in historical analogies that reveal patterns in the evolution of technology, communication, and society. These themes run through his public speaking engagements, where he connects the past and present to forecast the future - whether discussing the rise of social media, the future of cities and transport, or the long view on global trends. His talks are packed with wit, intellectual depth, and insights drawn from over two decades at the cutting edge of journalism and global analysis.
What makes Tom an exceptional motivational speaker is his talent for helping audiences see change not as something to fear, but as something to understand and master. Whether addressing global CEOs, academic institutions or innovation summits, Tom equips his audiences with the knowledge and curiosity to think more broadly, ask better questions, and approach the future with both perspective and purpose.
