The Top 20 Business Keynote Speakers to Hire in the UK - Official 2024 Guide
In the United Kingdom, small businesses have played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and employment. Over the past 25 years, they have generated nearly 13 million net new jobs, underscoring their significance in the broader economic landscape. This trend continued into 2023, with smaller businesses raising an impressive £6.5 billion in equity finance, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in the UK. However, the economic environment remains complex. The Institute of Directors (IoD) Economic Confidence Index, which measures business leaders' optimism regarding the UK economy, showed an improvement from -10 in April 2024 to -3 in May 2024.
In such a dynamic, unpredictable economic climate, hiring a business keynote speaker is crucial. A seasoned speaker can provide valuable insights into market trends, strategic growth and scaling opportunities. Their expertise can help businesses navigate the uncertainties of the economy, leverage new opportunities and implement effective growth strategies.
The Top 20 Business Keynote Speakers to Hire in the UK:
Given the considerable importance of navigating the complexities of business, a fantastic way to increase knowledge is by hiring an expert business keynote speaker. Using official evaluations from over 271 corporate conferences and summits themed on business growth and success, between 2021 and 2024, our Director, Jack Hayes, has shared his editor's opinion on the exclusive Top 20 Business Keynote Speakers to Hire in the UK!:
- Indra Nooyi - Former CEO of PepsiCo
- Steven Bartlett - Founder of Thirdweb, Flight Story & Flight Fund
- Richard Reed - Co-Founder of Innocent Drinks
- Levi Roots - Creator of Reggae Reggae Sauce
- Jenny Campbell - Founder & CEO of YourCash Europe Ltd
- James Caan - Founder of Alexander Mann & Former Investor on Dragons' Den
- Karren Brady - Vice Chairman of West Ham United FC & Aide to Lord Alan Sugar
- Lord Alan Sugar - Founder of Amstrad & Host of The Apprentice
- Penny Mallory - First Woman to Drive a Car in the FIA World Rally Championship
- Jo Fairley - Co-Founder of Green & Blacks Chocolate
- Martha Lane Fox - Co-Founder of Lastminute.com
- Arianna Huffington - Co-Founder of The Huffington Post
- Justin King - Former CEO of Sainsbury's & Director of Food for Marks & Spencer
- Matthew Syed - Founder of Matthew Syed Consulting
- Inga Beale - Former CEO of Lloyds of London
- Jonathan Warburton - Chairman of Warburtons
- Holly Tucker - Founder of notonthehighstreet
- Jo Malone - Founder of Jo Malone London & Jo Loves
- Bianca Miller Cole - Founder of The Be Group
- Rain Newton-Smith - Former Chief Economist of CBI & Director General of the CBI
1. Indra Nooyi
Former CEO of PepsiCo
"When women are empowered in the design and innovation process, the likelihood of success in the marketplace improves by 144%!"
Indra Nooyi, ranked among the World's 100 Most Powerful Women, is a highly sought-after business speaker known for her expertise in inclusivity and diversity. Since 1994, she has transformed PepsiCo by focusing on health and modern business challenges. As a keynote speaker, Indra provides invaluable insights into the future of businesswomen, health trends and effective leadership of global corporations. Her status as a leading businesswoman makes her a compelling figure on the speaking circuit, offering audiences essential strategies for corporate success and organisational efficiency.
2. Steven Bartlett
Founder of Thirdweb, Flight Story & Flight Fund
"The person you are now is a consequence of how you used your time in the past. The person you'll become in the future is a consequence of how you use your time in the present. Spend your time wisely, gamble it intrinsically and save it diligently."
Steven Bartlett is a popular choice for corporate events due to his remarkable achievements and dynamic speaking style. As the youngest-ever Dragon on BBC's Dragons' Den and Founder of Social Chain, he has demonstrated exceptional business acumen, leading his company to a valuation of over £300 million. His engaging "Diary of a CEO" podcast, which tops the charts on Spotify, showcases his insightful perspectives on business and innovation. Steven Bartlett's journey from a university dropout to a tech and social media mogul, combined with his commitment to social equality and motivational prowess, makes him an inspiring and relatable speaker for diverse corporate audiences.
3. Richard Reed
Co-Founder of Innocent Drinks
"Small denotes size, not significance."
Richard Reed is a sought-after keynote speaker due to his impressive track record as the Co-Founder of Innocent Drinks, a leading international retail brand. Specialising in business growth and success, Richard draws on his experience of turning fresh fruit smoothies into a global phenomenon. His speeches focus on entrepreneurialism and leadership, offering essential insights into competing in tough markets. Richard's unique methods in branding, marketing and advertising help corporate audiences distinguish themselves and drive profits. His engaging storytelling, from starting in a kitchen to achieving multimillion-pound success, motivates audiences to embrace creativity and decisive action in their business ventures.
4. Levi Roots
Creator of Reggae Reggae Sauce
"I think more people should stand up and be mentors so that young people can say “he’s done it and I want to hear from him, I don’t want to hear from someone who I don’t understand or who is not from my neck of the woods."
Levi Roots is a successful businessman widely recognised for turning a grassroots Jamaican upbringing into international entrepreneurial success. Known for his Reggae Reggae Sauce, Levi captivated audiences and investors on BBC’s Dragons' Den, securing investment and a lucrative deal with Sainsbury’s. His brand's authenticity, unique flavours and passion-driven approach have established a multi-million-pound business. As a keynote speaker, Levi's engaging, humorous and inspirational talks resonate with audiences, sharing insights on transforming passion into profit. His diverse career, media presence and genuine story make him a compelling figure at business events, inspiring others to achieve their own entrepreneurial dreams.
5. Jenny Campbell
Founder & CEO of YourCash Europe Ltd
"I always say recruit for attitude and train for skill, the 16-year-old can do just as good or even potentially better than the 23-year-old who’s maybe never been in a work environment."
Jenny Campbell is a successful entrepreneur renowned for her transformation of Hanco ATM Systems into the market-leading YourCash. Her journey from an entry-level position at NatWest to owning a thriving European ATM business demonstrates her determination and business acumen. As a former Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, Jenny's keen sense for opportunities further solidified her reputation. Her extensive experience in banking and entrepreneurship, coupled with her motivational personal story, makes her an invaluable keynote speaker. Jenny’s insights have benefited prestigious clients like HSBC and the Prince’s Trust, making her a highly sought-after speaker for various corporate and entrepreneurial events.
6. James Caan
Founder of Alexander Mann & Former Investor on Dragons' Den
"Stay calm, stay focused, work with the people around you, share the strain, find the solution. Give yourself a chance, not a coronary."
James Caan, former Dragon of Dragons' Den, is highly sought after as a keynote speaker at business-themed events due to his extensive experience and visionary entrepreneurship. With over 30 years of success across various sectors, James offers invaluable insights into achieving business triumphs. His speeches are not only motivational but also personal, sharing his journey and the pitfalls encountered along the way. Having delivered influential talks to companies like Google and Virgin, James captivates audiences of all sizes. His firsthand expertise, charismatic delivery and ability to promote events through his exclusive social media platform make him an exceptional choice for any business event.
7. Karren Brady
Vice Chairman of West Ham United FC & Former MD of Birmingham City FC
"There are only two things that I really care about - apart from family - one is business and the other is women in business."
Baroness Karren Brady of Knightsbridge CBE epitomises an inspirational businesswoman and motivational speaker. Renowned as the former Managing Director of Birmingham City and Vice-Chairman of West Ham United, Karren's remarkable achievements have solidified her reputation. Named one of The Sunday Times' 100 Most Powerful Women in Britain, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional business acumen. As a trusted advisor on BBC's The Apprentice, Karren champions women in business and entrepreneurship. Her extensive experience, dynamic leadership and ability to transform businesses make her a sought-after speaker, delivering captivating talks on entrepreneurship and business transformation to a variety of audiences.
8. Lord Alan Sugar
Founder of Amstrad & Host of The Apprentice
"Love what you do and do what you love, otherwise you will become unhappy and self-defeating"
Lord Alan Sugar, a renowned name in the business world, is the Founder of Amstrad and Host of The Apprentice. He launched his famous computer company at just 21, achieving significant business success and becoming an inspiration for many aspiring entrepreneurs. As a business speaker, Lord Sugar motivates corporate audiences by demonstrating that determination and self-belief can make anything possible. Through The Apprentice, he has redefined entrepreneurship, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of building a brand. At events, he brings this same message, educating and empowering his audiences.
9. Penny Mallory
First Woman to Drive a World Rally Car in the FIA World Rally Championship
"Making a difference and having an impact on people's thinking is my aim when I speak. My hope is that people get excited about the benefits of developing mental toughness so they can better manage the stress and pressure that is inevitable in our lives."
Penny Mallory is a powerful businesswoman and business speaker, renowned for her decorated career as a British Rally Championship driver and as the first woman to drive a World Rally Car in the FIA World Rally Championship. Her expertise in achieving mental toughness and resilience, honed through her experiences in motorsport and a challenging upbringing, makes her a sought-after keynote speaker. Penny's speeches inspire confidence and productivity, teaching audiences to thrive under stress and pressure. Having spoken for top companies like Microsoft and Google, and authored popular books on mental toughness, Penny's insights are invaluable for achieving success in the modern business landscape.
10. Jo Fairley
Co-Founder of Green & Blacks Chocolate
"The challenge is what thrills me, drives me, excites me - and gets me out of bed in the morning. So perhaps the most important lesson I've learned in business is that work has to be about your passion - not your pension."
Jo Fairley, Co-Founder of Green & Black’s, is a highly sought-after keynote speaker due to her extensive experience and success in ethical business practices. With a career spanning over 40 years and ventures in luxury chocolate, organic food and beauty industries, Jo offers invaluable insights from her journey. Her talks, filled with first-hand knowledge of business development and sustainability, have inspired diverse audiences worldwide, including major corporations like HSBC, Bloomberg and Deloitte. Jo's commitment to green practices and her influential entrepreneurial achievements make her an authoritative and motivating speaker for any business event.
11. Martha Lane Fox
Co-Founder of Lastminute.com
"Failure is not an option. Everyone has to succeed"
Martha Lane Fox is a highly popular businesswoman and keynote speaker due to her impressive entrepreneurial success and diverse contributions. Co-Founder of Lastminute.com, Martha has a proven track record in the digital economy, also serving as a non-executive director for major companies like Marks & Spencer. Her leadership extends to philanthropy and public service, including the creation of a Digital Public Services Unit within the Cabinet Office and her manifesto for a Networked Nation. Recognised with numerous accolades, including a CBE and a life peerage, Martha inspires and motivates audiences with her insights on merging online and offline business strategies.
12. Arianna Huffington
Co-Founder of The Huffington Post
"We need to accept that we won't always make the right decisions, that we'll screw up royally sometimes - understanding that failure is not the opposite of success, it is part of success."
Arianna Huffington, a globally renowned businesswoman and Co-Founder of The Huffington Post, is a highly sought-after keynote speaker. Her dedication to prioritising employee wellbeing and redefining success through happiness makes her a compelling voice in the business world. As the Founder of Thrive, a leading behaviour change tech company, and author of 15 books, including bestsellers 'Thrive' and 'The Sleep Revolution', Arianna shares invaluable insights on workplace culture, burnout and organisational behaviour. Named on Forbes' Most Powerful Women list and Time's 100 Most Influential People, her expertise and engaging presentations make her an exceptional choice for any event.
13. Justin King
Former CEO of Sainsbury's & Director of Food for Marks & Spencer
"I think the key tip that I'd give young people is it starts with being yourself... retail is an industry where you have to be real because enthusiasm comes from the heart."
Justin King is a highly sought-after business speaker due to his extensive experience and proven track record of success in the retail industry. As the former CEO of J Sainsbury's, he led a remarkable turnaround that restored the company's market share and achieved significant growth. His career spans roles at Pepsi-Cola, Mars, ASDA and Marks & Spencer, highlighting his versatile expertise. Known for introducing Häagen-Dazs to the UK, Justin's strategic insights into business management and innovation are invaluable. Awarded a CBE for his services, Justin shares practical advice on leadership, ethical business practices and business transformation, making him an ideal speaker for corporate events.
14. Matthew Syed
Founder of Matthew Syed Consulting & Author of Black Box Thinking
"Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself"
Matthew Syed is a top choice for corporate speaking events due to his profound expertise in high performance and mindset development. As England’s top-ranked table tennis player for nearly a decade and an Olympian, Matthew understands elite performance firsthand. He founded Matthew Syed Consulting in 2013 and has authored bestselling books on high performance and mindset, making him a renowned coach. His dynamic approach helps organisations foster continuous improvement and cognitive diversity. Named one of HR’s Top 30 Most Influential Thinkers, Matthew’s impactful insights and proven strategies make him an invaluable speaker for driving lasting organisational change.
15. Inga Beale
Former CEO of Lloyds of London
"Women need to really believe in their ability, to get our there and take on those challenging roles. It is a matter of authenticity and self-belief"
Dame Inga Beale, former CEO of Lloyd's of London, is a sought-after business speaker for her unique insights and inspiring journey. As a pioneering female leader in a male-dominated industry, she advocates for workplace equality and diversity, making her a powerful voice on these issues. Her expertise in business management, finance and navigating challenges like Brexit provides valuable advice to corporate audiences. Inga Beale's dynamic career, advocacy for the LGBT community and recognition as an influential executive highlight her ability to motivate and engage listeners, making her an ideal speaker for corporate events.
16. Jonathan Warburton
Chairman of Warburtons
"Technology is a great enabler. It can also be a great drag on business if you let it control you, rather than you controlling the technology"
Jonathan Warburton is a highly sought-after business speaker due to his extensive experience and success as Chairman of Warburtons. Renowned for his role in transforming the family bakery into a market leader, Jonathan excels in business development, organisational strategies and consumer goods production. His tenure has seen Warburtons achieve remarkable growth, increasing turnover by 60% and expanding bakery sites by 40%. Jonathan's expertise extends beyond baking to marketing and retail, honed through roles at Unilever and as a Non-Executive Director at prominent firms. His engaging presentations, rich with insights on corporate strategy and employee wellbeing, make him a captivating and valuable speaker.
17. Holly Tucker
Founder of notonthehighstreet & UK Ambassador for Creative Small Businesses
"There's never a perfect time... You've just gotta go for it... It's not the business card or the team or the premises or the equipment. It's the mindset that you're going to do this."
Holly Tucker MBE is a sought-after business speaker for corporate events due to her proven track record of building successful businesses. As the Founder of Not On The High Street and Holly & Co, she has showcased her expertise in entrepreneurship and innovation. Holly's inspirational journey, from launching a local fair to creating a thriving online marketplace, demonstrates her deep understanding of risk management and growth strategies. Her role as the UK Ambassador to Creative Small Businesses and her significant contributions to the economy make her an impactful presence at events. Holly’s passion for supporting entrepreneurs and good causes further enhances her appeal, motivating and empowering corporate audiences.
18. Jo Malone
Founder of Jo Malone London & Jo Loves
"Find a ladder. Or find a way to climb over the wall. Or dig a tunnel. Just find a way."
Jo Malone is revered as an expert in business due to her remarkable entrepreneurial journey and innovative approach to the perfume industry. Despite severe dyslexia and leaving school at 15 with no qualifications, she launched Jo Malone London, a brand that achieved global cult status. Her creative talent and business acumen led to the brand's acquisition by Estée Lauder Companies. Jo Malone's story of overcoming adversity and her knack for pioneering new products make her an inspirational figure. Her down-to-earth personality and relatable success story make her a sought-after keynote speaker, known for creating a positive and motivating atmosphere at corporate events.
19. Bianca Miller-Cole
Founder of The Be Group
"Beyond positive affirmations and quotes there is work to do!!"
Bianca Miller-Cole is a sought-after keynote speaker at corporate events due to her remarkable business acumen and ability to inspire diverse audiences. Founder of The Be Group, she has a proven track record in enhancing workforce potential and serving prestigious clients like HSBC, Google and KPMG. Her recognition as a ‘Forbes 30 under 30’ and finalist on BBC’s The Apprentice highlights her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. Co-author of the bestseller "Self Made", Bianca shares insights on leadership, personal branding and innovation, engaging audiences from new joiners to senior executives. Her impactful talks motivate and cultivate an inspired, high-performing workforce.
20. Rain Newton-Smith
Former Chief Economist of CBI & Director General of the Confederation of British Industry
"Economics is only just waking up now to the fact that is needs to tackle that (gender inequality)"
Rain Newton-Smith is hired as a business speaker due to her extensive expertise in economics and global business leadership. As the former Chief Economist at the Confederation of British Industry, she led teams focused on economic and tax policy, sustainability and global risks. Her experience includes managing emerging markets at Oxford Economics, advising the Bank of England and working with the International Monetary Fund. Named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Rain brings over 20 years of experience in macroeconomics, making her a leading authority on leadership, sustainability, decarbonisation and economic policy, valuable for any business event.
Hire a Business Speaker Today!
To hire a business speaker featured in this post, simply contact The Motivational Speakers Agency today via our contact number 0207 0787 876, or by filling out one of our online contact forms.
This exclusive article on the Top 20 Business Keynote Speakers to Hire in the UK was written by Jack Hayes, using official evaluations from over 271 corporate conferences and summits between 2021 and 2024.
