20 Female Business Trailblazers Inspiring Change in the UK

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Inspirational Female Business Leader?

Hiring a female business leader for your event brings a wealth of experience and valuable perspectives. Studies show that companies with gender-diverse leadership teams are 21% more likely to experience above-average profitability. Moreover, businesses with at least 30% women in leadership positions can add up to 6 percentage points to their net profit margin. Research also shows that companies with a higher percentage of women on executive teams have a 48% higher operating margin compared to those with fewer women. Inspirational female business leaders bring unique strategies, innovative thinking, and foster inclusive cultures that drive success. These speakers can motivate teams, encourage innovation, and empower employees, ultimately boosting both morale and productivity.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Inspirational Female Business Trailblazer?

The cost of hiring an inspirational female business speaker can range from £1,000 to £60,000, depending on their experience and the nature of the event. To discover which keynote speaker fits your budget, contact The Motivational Speakers Agency today! Our dedicated booking agents use their expertise to ensure the perfect speaker, who fits your expenditure, is selected for your event.

Who Are the Best Inspirational Female Business Speakers Trending in the UK?

This official selection of the 20 Female Business Trailblazers Inspiring Change in the UK is vetted data collated from 362 motivational-themed events, exclusive evaluations, and comprehensive event polls. Below are some of the top trailblazers who inspire change in the UK business world:

• Jo Malone
• Wendy Hall
• Floella Benjamin
• Mary Aiken
• Jo Salter
• Tessy Ojo
• Sara Davies
• Kay Firth-Butterfield
• Karren Brady
• Nina Schick
• Emma Grede
• Poppy Jamie
• Hannah Fry
• Holly Tucker
• Roz Savage
• Toju Duke
• Lucy Adams
• Martha Lane Fox
• Joanna Shields

Jo Malone

Jo Malone is renowned for revolutionizing the fragrance industry with her eponymous brand. As the founder of Jo Malone London, she turned her passion into a global brand, later launching Jo Loves. Jo’s innovative approach to business and overcoming personal health challenges make her a highly sought-after speaker. She inspires entrepreneurs with her story of resilience, creativity, and leadership in building a successful brand.

Wendy Hall

Professor Dame Wendy Hall is a pioneering computer scientist, known for her contributions to the development of the Semantic Web. As one of the most influential women in technology, Wendy inspires audiences with her expertise in artificial intelligence and leadership in the tech industry. She’s an excellent keynote speaker, especially for those interested in the future of AI, technology, and digital transformation.

Floella Benjamin

Baroness Floella Benjamin is an award-winning broadcaster, actress, and advocate for children’s rights. Her journey from the Caribbean to becoming a beloved UK television presenter and politician is inspiring. Known for her advocacy in education, diversity, and mental health, Floella’s motivational speeches resonate with audiences of all ages, making her a popular choice for business and educational events.

Mary Aiken

Dr. Mary Aiken is one of the world’s leading experts in cyberpsychology, studying the impact of technology on human behavior. Her work has been featured in various global forums, and she provides critical insights into cybersecurity and online safety. As a speaker, Mary empowers businesses and individuals to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.

Jo Salter

Jo Salter MBE was the first female fast jet pilot in the RAF, and made history with her groundbreaking role in aviation. With an extensive background in leadership and technology, including high-level positions at PwC, Jo is frequently booked as a keynote speaker for leadership and technology conferences. Her inspiring story of resilience and innovation is a testament to breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.

Tessy Ojo

Tessy Ojo is the CEO of The Diana Award, known for her advocacy in youth development and leadership. Under her direction, The Diana Award has empowered thousands of young leaders across the globe. Tessy’s motivational speeches emphasize leadership, youth empowerment, and social change, making her a highly respected speaker in business and non-profit sectors.

Sara Davies

Sara Davies is the founder of Crafter's Companion and a Dragon on BBC’s "Dragons’ Den." She built her business from scratch into a multi-million-pound empire. Sara’s entrepreneurial journey is filled with valuable lessons on scaling businesses and overcoming challenges, which makes her an inspirational speaker for business and entrepreneurial events.

Kay Firth-Butterfield

Kay Firth-Butterfield is a global leader in artificial intelligence and a pioneer in the ethical development of AI. As a sought-after speaker, she has shared her expertise on the importance of responsible AI development with governments, corporations, and academic institutions. Her work helps shape the future of technology and innovation, making her a crucial voice in modern business discussions.

Karren Brady

Baroness Karren Brady is an iconic businesswoman known for her leadership in football as the former Managing Director of Birmingham City FC and for her role as an aide to Lord Sugar on BBC’s "The Apprentice." With extensive experience in male-dominated industries, Karren inspires audiences with her story of ambition, resilience, and breaking through barriers in business.

Nina Schick

Nina Schick is a political advisor and author specializing in deepfake technology and the impact of AI on society. She is a trusted voice in tech and geopolitics, advising world leaders on how technology is reshaping global governance. Nina’s keynote speeches offer eye-opening insights into the future of technology, cybersecurity, and political affairs.

Emma Grede

Emma Grede is a trailblazer in renewable energy and sustainability, known for her work in green business solutions. Emma’s speeches focus on empowering businesses to implement sustainable practices while improving profitability. Her commitment to environmental responsibility makes her a valuable speaker at any event focused on business innovation and corporate social responsibility.

Poppy Jamie

Poppy Jamie is a British entrepreneur and founder of the mindfulness app Happy Not Perfect. She is a pioneer in mental health advocacy, focusing on wellness, mental clarity, and business productivity. Poppie’s speeches inspire entrepreneurs and businesses to foster healthy, productive environments through mindfulness and wellness initiatives.

Hannah Fry

Dr. Hannah Fry is a renowned mathematician and broadcaster who makes complex mathematical concepts accessible to the public. Her work includes using data science to solve real-world problems, and she has spoken at TED and numerous global conferences. Hannah’s unique ability to blend science, storytelling, and humour makes her an excellent motivational speaker for both academic and corporate audiences.

Holly Tucker

Holly Tucker MBE is a British entrepreneur and co-founder of Notonthehighstreet.com, one of the UK's most successful online marketplaces for creative entrepreneurs. Holly’s story of building a business from the ground up resonates with startups and business leaders alike. She is an inspirational speaker on topics of creativity, entrepreneurship, and business growth.

Roz Savage

Roz Savage MBE is a world-renowned ocean rower, sustainability advocate, and author. As the first woman to row solo across three oceans, Roz’s story of resilience, determination, and environmental activism inspires people to take action on global sustainability issues. She is an exceptional motivational speaker for corporate and environmental events.

Toju Duke

Toju Duke is a Diversity and Inclusion expert at Google, focusing on AI fairness and responsible innovation. Her work in tech has driven the conversation on inclusive AI systems, and her thought leadership in AI fairness makes her a highly sought-after speaker for businesses seeking to adopt ethical AI practices.

Lucy Adams

Lucy Adams is a former HR director at the BBC and an expert in people management, transformation, and leadership. Lucy’s speeches focus on changing workplace cultures and adapting to modern challenges in leadership. Her practical approach to managing teams and improving workplace dynamics makes her an inspiring keynote speaker for corporate events.

Martha Lane Fox

Martha Lane Fox CBE is a British entrepreneur and co-founder of Lastminute.com. As a pioneer of the internet age, Martha’s leadership in digital transformation and public service has shaped modern e-commerce. She speaks passionately on business innovation, digital inclusion, and the future of technology, making her a must-book speaker for business conferences.

Joanna Shields

Baroness Joanna Shields is a tech entrepreneur and former CEO of BenevolentAI. Her leadership roles in Silicon Valley, coupled with her commitment to using AI for good, make her a respected speaker on technology and business ethics. Joanna’s deep experience in both government and tech enables her to offer unique perspectives on the intersection of innovation and responsibility.

Book a Female Business Trailblazer Currently Inspiring Change 

Female business trailblazers are not just inspiring leaders; they are powerful catalysts for change in today’s corporate world. By breaking through barriers and overcoming adversity, these women have paved the way for greater gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. 

Hiring an inspirational female business speaker for your event brings more than just motivation—it introduces a fresh perspective that can reshape the way your team approaches challenges and fosters growth. Studies consistently show that businesses with diverse leadership teams are more profitable, innovative, and better equipped to navigate an ever-evolving global market. These women—whether from fields like technology, entrepreneurship, or leadership—empower others to think differently, break stereotypes, and pursue excellence in their careers.

As your organisation looks to inspire its teams, shape its future, and enhance its commitment to diversity, hiring one of these powerful female speakers is a step towards positive change. To book one of these incredible speakers and help drive meaningful conversations about leadership, innovation, and equality, contact The Motivational Speakers Agency today via 0207 0787 876 or fill out our online contact form.