The Official Best 20 Motivational Keynote Speakers in London to Hire in 2024

Year after year, London proves to be the leading hub for a wide range of keynote speaking events, including the Gartner Data Analytics Summit, the GCVA Conference 2024 and London Toastmasters. These events are known for their sophisticated and high-calibre speakers, many of which are represented by The Motivational Speakers Agency.

London stands out as a premier hub for keynote speaking events, offering a blend of exquisite venues such as The Shard & The Gherkin, unparalleled connectivity, and vibrant diversity. The capital's reputation for quality is unmatched, featuring cutting-edge industry clusters, world-class galleries, and innovative event concepts. Moreover, London's status as a global tech and financial hub brings together expertise and world-class talent, ensuring that events can tap into a deep pool of knowledge and creativity. 
Source: London Convention Bureau 
 

The Official Best 20 Motivational Speakers to Hire in London:

• Susie Wolff
• Bear Grylls
• Jason Fox
• Steven Bartlett
• Ranulph Fiennes
• Roz Savage
• John Amaechi
• Sir Richard Branson
• Floella Benjamin
• Matthew Syed
• Sir Clive Woodward
• Rachel Botsman
• Claire Lomas
• Kelly Holmes
• Jim Lawless
• Jamil Qureshi
• Mandy Hickson
• Sebastian Coe
• Tracy Edwards
• Jason Robinson

1. Susie Wolff

Official Client Rating: 8.7/10

Susie Wolff, the Managing Director of the F1 Academy, is a trailblazer in motorsport, a field historically dominated by men. Her career journey from a go-karter to a competitive motor racer and her achievements, including being the first woman in over two decades to participate in a Formula One race weekend, underscore her pioneering spirit.

With an MBE and an honorary Fellowship from the University of Edinburgh to her name, Susie is not just an accomplished athlete but also a fervent advocate for women in sports. As a keynote speaker, she leverages her inspiring journey to encourage women to pursue their passions, irrespective of societal norms. Susie's initiatives, such as Dare to be Different, aim to nurture young female talent in motorsports, demonstrating her commitment to changing the landscape for women in sports. Her eloquence, experience, and genuine passion make her an influential speaker, capable of motivating a wide range of audiences to challenge conventions and strive for excellence.

Official Testimonial for Susie Wolff:

“Susie Wolff was really very inspirational. She has engaged our audience and was one of the favourite speakers and topic of the day.” - Accenture

2. Bear Grylls

Official Client Rating: 9.3/10

Bear Grylls, a renowned figure in the realm of exploration and adventure, epitomizes the spirit of survival and outdoor prowess. With a career that spans from the rigorous disciplines of 21 SAS to conquering Mount Everest and beyond, Bear has lived a life filled with remarkable achievements and harrowing adventures.

As an adventure keynote speaker, he brings a wealth of experience from his expeditions around the globe, including circumnavigating the British Isles on jet skis, crossing the North Atlantic Ocean, and leading treks through the Northwest Passage. His presentations are infused with lessons on teamwork, leadership, and resilience, drawn from his military background and his encounters with nature's most challenging conditions. Bear's storytelling not only captivates audiences but also imparts invaluable insights into overcoming adversity, making him a sought-after speaker for educational, corporate, and public events in London and around the world.

Official Testimonial for Bear Grylls:

"I have never had such a positive reaction to a speaker before, the team were simply enthralled, an inspiration to all who listened!" - Trading Director, Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd

3. Jason Fox

Official Client Rating: 9/10

Jason Fox is a distinguished figure in the realm of mental resilience and leadership, renowned for his captivating keynote speeches. With a background as a former Special Forces Sergeant, his 20 years of covert operations experience, spanning counter-terrorism to surveillance, underpins his expertise.

Transitioning from the battlefield to the boardroom, Jason's journey through overcoming PTSD and co-founding Rock 2 Recovery highlights his profound understanding of mental health challenges. His open discussions on mental wellbeing, combined with his charismatic presence on television, particularly on SAS: Who Dares Wins, enrich his narrative. Jason's ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with actionable insights makes him a compelling after-dinner speaker.

Official Testimonial for Jason Fox:

“Jason Fox spoke at our Company Conference. He was humble, yet inspiring, and managed to keep the audience’s attention throughout his whole talk. He stimulated more questions from the team than we have ever had before for a speaker. I would highly recommend him to businesses who want to inspire their team on teamwork, resilience and positive mental attitude.” -Hasbro

4. Steven Bartlett

Official Client Rating: 9.5/10

Steven Bartlett, an award-winning entrepreneur and investor, epitomises the confluence of technology, business acumen, and media savvy. As the visionary founder and former CEO of Social Chain Agency, he spearheaded its meteoric rise to become one of Europe's leading marketing forces, boasting an impressive valuation and a global footprint. His pioneering work leveraged owned media and cutting-edge technology to secure heavyweight clients like Apple and Amazon.

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Steven has emerged as a key voice in discussions on racial equality and an advocate for change, drawing from his personal experiences of racial discrimination in the UK. He continues to impact the mental health and e-commerce sectors, showcasing a remarkable ability to foresee and capitalise on emerging trends. His insights are sought after worldwide, having addressed audiences at the United Nations, SXSW, and TEDx, making him a formidable keynote speaker in technology, business, and media circles.

Official Testimonial for Steven Bartlett:

"The event was everything and more than we hoped! Feedback immediately after and since has been that it was the best event they had attended. Steven and his team were absolutely fantastic, so accommodating, so friendly and it really was a pleasure to host them at 25 Bank Street, and even better that we were able to make it happen in person - something I think we all agreed was absolutely worth it. " - Charlotte, Vice President Operations Control Management, J.P. Morgan

5. Sir Ranulph Fiennes

Official Client Rating: 8.5/10

Sir Ranulph Fiennes epitomises the epitome of mental resilience and leadership, his life a testament to overcoming the insurmountable. Dubbed the World’s Greatest Living Explorer, his exploits offer profound insights into human endurance. Ranulph's experiences, from the scorching Sahara to Antarctica's icy expanses, underscore not just physical, but mental fortitude.

His leadership skills, honed in the British Army, enrich his keynotes with authentic narratives of perseverance and resilience. Addressing audiences at events in London and all over the world, he illustrates the essence of preparation, team motivation, and the power of pushing beyond perceived limits. As a motivational speaker, Ranulph doesn't merely share adventures; he imparts invaluable lessons on navigating life's toughest challenges, inspiring individuals to transcend their own barriers. His recognition, including an OBE and the Polar Medal, alongside his authorship of over 40 books, solidifies his influence as a beacon of inspiration and leadership.

Official Testimonial for Sir Ranulph Fiennes:

“Fabulous – a remarkable man who gave a brilliant presentation and was a delight to deal with. Nothing was too much trouble and the talk was as good as it gets – inspirational, witty, humbling and enthralling. You won’t do any better than have Ranulph Fiennes as your guest speaker” - Consort Medical

6. Roz Savage

Official Client Rating: 8.7/10

Roz Savage, an acclaimed ocean rower and Guinness World Record holder, now channels her extraordinary experiences into motivational speaking, focusing on overcoming life's fears. Her journey from a management consultant in London to the first woman to row solo across three oceans exemplifies unparalleled courage, determination, and resilience. Through her speeches, Roz engages corporate audiences with themes of leadership, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.

Drawing from her solo voyages and environmental advocacy, she provides invaluable insights on facing challenges with confidence. Roz’s accolades, including being named Adventurer of the Year by National Geographic and receiving an MBE for her contributions, underscore her influence and achievements. As a keynote speaker, Roz Savage captivates her audience, imparting lessons on courage and determination gleaned from the open ocean, making her an exceptional choice for events centred on adventure, sustainability, and personal growth.

Official Testimonial for Roz Savage:

"Roz was energetic, passionate, engaging and real. Her connection with both our employees and our clients, and the dialogue it sparked both within the room and beyond was tremendous. Everyone left with a little optimistic spring in their step, inspired to make changes and live their lives a little differently. It was an amazing experience to share her world for that hour." - Credit Suisse

7. John Amaechi

Official Client Rating: 8.8/10

John Amaechi OBE is a distinguished keynote speaker in the realms of sports and organisational psychology, blending his rich heritage in professional basketball with deep insights into organisational dynamics. His journey from NBA player to a Chartered Scientist and organisational psychologist provides a unique narrative that captivates and educates audiences.

Founder of APS Intelligence Ltd and a Chartered Fellow of CIPD, John applies scientific rigour to his presentations, offering advice rooted in proven principles. His talks inspire with stories of adaptability and determination, making him a compelling figure for events focused on leadership, team performance, and workplace culture. As a respected author and advisor, John’s contributions to diversity and inclusion, alongside his practical experience in leadership, position him as a transformative speaker for those looking to foster positive organisational change.

Official Testimonial for John Amaechi:

"John Amaechi spoke at our national sales meeting and even though salespeople are notorious for being quite cynical and hard to impress, John had an amazing impact on us all! He is a very interesting and thought-provoking person and left us all feeling very motivated. His honesty and integrity was a breath of fresh air!" - Toshiba UK

8. Sir Richard Branson

Official Client Rating: 9.5/10

Richard Branson, an epitome of entrepreneurial success and innovation, offers an unparalleled perspective as a keynote speaker. With a journey from a dyslexic high school dropout to a global business magnate, his narrative is a testament to overcoming adversity through resilience and creativity.

Richard’s ventures, spanning multiple sectors, underscore his versatile business acumen and pioneering spirit. His commitment to supporting emerging entrepreneurs and philanthropic causes further enriches his speeches, making him a source of inspiration and wisdom. Richard's experiences, from founding Virgin Records to his philanthropic efforts, provide invaluable insights into achieving success against all odds, making him a coveted speaker for business and entrepreneurship events.

9. Floella Benjamin

Official Client Rating: 8.9/10

Floella Benjamin, a distinguished Member of the House of Lords and Chancellor of the University of Exeter, transcends her beginnings as a Windrush generation immigrant to become a beacon of hope and inspiration. Facing challenges with grace, she became a legendary actress and a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and racial equality.

Her work, from lobbying for a Minister for Children to authoring "Coming to England," reflects her commitment to ensuring children recognise and celebrate diversity from a young age. As a keynote speaker, Floella draws on her rich tapestry of experiences, from overcoming racism to achieving groundbreaking success in entertainment and philanthropy. With her Damehood Medal and an OBE for her contributions, she stands as a testament to the power of resilience and love. Floella Benjamin's speeches are not just talks; they are a journey through a life lived authentically, offering invaluable lessons on diversity and the strength found in our differences.

Official Testimonial for Floella Benjamin:

"I wanted to take this opportunity to say a warm thank you to Baroness Benjamin for a truly thought-provoking, powerful and amazing inspirational talk at this year's Deloitte Black History Month celebration. I can honestly say everyone is still buzzing from last week.” - Deloitte

10. Matthew Syed

Official Client Rating: 8.6/10

Matthew Syed stands as a paradigm in the realm of high performance and mindset development, as the Founder of Matthew Syed Consulting. With a diverse career spanning from elite sports to journalism to organisational coaching, Matthew's journey reflects his unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and actualising potential.

In an ever-evolving world that demands adaptability, resilience, and innovative thinking, Matthew Syed emerges as a beacon. His multifaceted journey from the ping pong table to the global stage makes him not just a motivational speaker, but a living embodiment of transformation and high performance. For any organisation or individual striving to foster a culture of continuous improvement, Matthew's insights are invaluable. He is a popular choice to hire for speaking events in and around London.

Official Speaking Topics for Matthew Syed include:

• The Power of a Growth Mindset
• The Power of Cognitive Diversity
• How Growth Mindsets & Cognitive Diversity Boost Performance

11. Clive Woodward

Official Client Rating: 8.7/10

Clive Woodward, celebrated for orchestrating the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory with England, is a distinguished keynote speaker on rugby and peak performance. His illustrious career began as a player with the Harlequins, eventually earning 21 caps for England and participating in two British and Irish Lions tours. As England's coach, Woodward transitioned the team into the professional era, culminating in their World Cup triumph.

His ventures into football and Olympic performance directorship, alongside pioneering the integration of technology in sports coaching, underscore his multifaceted expertise. Clive's leadership philosophy, encapsulated by his "Thinking Correctly Under Pressure" mantra, coupled with his roles in various high-performance environments, make him a compelling speaker. His insights on achieving success, drawn from a broad spectrum of sports, resonate widely, making him an exemplary figure for discussing leadership, teamwork, and peak performance strategies.

Official Testimonial for Clive Woodward:

"The session went really well and Clive was great. Lots of positive feedback" - Adrian, Head of Internal Communications, Avanti West Coast

12. Rachel Botsman

Official Client Rating: 9.1/10

Rachel Botsman is a distinguished keynote speaker, renowned for her expertise in technology, trust, and the dynamics of the modern business landscape. Rachel has established herself as a visionary, challenging conventional thinking and fostering innovative ideas. Her work spans across various mediums, including influential publications like Financial Times and The Guardian, and extends to her popular newsletter and podcast, Rethink Moments with Rachel Botsman.

Rachel's books, "What’s Mine is Yours" and "Who Can You Trust?", have been acclaimed globally, with the latter being recognised by TIME as one of the "10 Ideas That Will Change the World". Her accolades include being named one of the World’s Most Influential Management Thinkers by Thinkers50 and a LinkedIn Top Voice. Rachel's compelling talks at prestigious platforms like TED, highlight her ability to engage and inspire her audience. Her speaking engagements at notable events, including the Adobe Summit and Oslo Business Forum, alongside companies like Mastercard and Microsoft, showcase her as a pivotal figure in shaping the discourse on trust and innovation in technology and business.

Official Testimonial for Rachel Botsman:

“Not one single day has gone by since the event without external & internal commendations on her engagement with our audience. Her message really connected and impacted the entire audience.” – Adobe

13. Claire Lomas

Official Client Rating: 9.2/10

Claire Lomas is a beacon of mental resilience and an inspirational sports keynote speaker. Once a top-level event rider, she faced life-altering paralysis following a severe accident in 2007. Despite these daunting challenges, Claire's unyielding determination shone through. She embarked on a remarkable journey of rehabilitation, discovering new passions in hand cycling and establishing a fundraising initiative for spinal research.

Her groundbreaking achievement of completing the London Marathon in a ReWalk robotic suit, raising over £140,000, showcases her extraordinary perseverance. Honoured with prestigious awards and an MBE, Claire's story of overcoming adversity, coupled with her dedication to philanthropy and inspiring others, makes her a compelling and motivational speaker. Her achievements illuminate the power of resilience, making her an exemplary figure for audiences worldwide.

Official Testimonial for Claire Lomas:

"Thank you for following up, we honestly loved having Claire there! No feedback needed whatsoever - she was FAB!" - Secret Escapes

14. Kelly Holmes

Official Client Rating: 8.9/10

Dame Kelly Holmes, a revered figure in both sports and mental health advocacy, exemplifies resilience and determination. Transitioning from a distinguished career in the Forces to a celebrated Olympic athlete, Kelly has not only inspired through her athletic prowess but also through her candid discussions on mental health.

Facing and overcoming significant personal challenges, including depression and issues related to her sexuality, Kelly uses her platform to destigmatise mental health struggles. As a keynote speaker, she blends her unique experiences with practical advice, engaging corporate audiences with her compelling story of triumph over adversity. Kelly’s journey from battling injuries and mental health issues to Olympic glory and beyond underscores the importance of support, perseverance, and open dialogue about mental health. Her impactful speeches encourage others to pursue their dreams while prioritising their mental well-being, making her a highly sought-after speaker for events focused on sports, mental health, and personal development, particularly in the London area.

Official Testimonial for Kelly Holmes:

“It was fabulous – she is such a lovely woman and the energy from the audience was fantastic, they all loved her and bless her she was mobbed afterwards for photos and chats and she had time for everyone, really couldn’t have asked for a better guest for our first live event – she has set the bar high.” – Sky

15. Jim Lawless

Official Client Rating: 8.5/10

Jim Lawless is a distinguished peak performance and teamwork keynote speaker, whose journey from a City lawyer to the founder of Taming Tigers Group showcases his profound expertise in cultural change and elite team coaching. With a client roster that includes industry giants like Apple and the NHS, Jim has cemented his reputation as a specialist in driving visible, long-term success within organisations.

As the fourth-best motivational speaker globally, according to Global Gurus, his approach is deeply rooted in personal experience and experimentation. Jim's remarkable achievements, such as becoming Britain's deepest freediver and transforming into a jockey against the odds, underscore his commitment to living the principles he teaches. His engaging presence and motivational prowess on stage are undeniable, making him a sought-after speaker for those looking to unlock their potential and drive significant change in their professional environments.

Official Testimonial for Jim Lawless:

"Brilliant - effervescent, inspiring, relatable and approachable. The perfect addition to our agenda, raising the tempo, energy and laughter in the room of what had been a serious few days. Thank you!" - Ernst & Young

16. Jamil Qureshi

Official Client Rating: 9.3/10

Jamil Qureshi stands out as a preeminent peak performance and psychology keynote speaker, leveraging his extensive experience as a performance enhancing psychologist. Renowned for coaching elite athletes across golf, football, and Formula 1, Jamil has successfully propelled six individuals to the pinnacle of their sports, securing the number one spot globally. His significant role in the 2006 European Ryder Cup team as their first official psychologist highlights his exceptional ability to guide teams to historic victories.

Beyond sports, Jamil extends his expertise to the business realm, offering transformative coaching to leaders and organisations, aiming to elevate performance and manage change effectively. His work with prominent clients such as Cisco Systems, Coca Cola, and Emirates Airlines underscores his versatility and impact. Founding JQED Ltd and co-founding several ventures, Jamil has cemented his reputation as a dynamic speaker, captivating audiences with his insights into achieving peak performance across various sectors.

Official Testimonial for Jamil Qureshi:

"Jamil was great and the attendees gave really good feedback on the session - was a great fit for what we wanted to achieve. Please convey our thanks to Jamil and thank you for getting this activation over the line." - Meta

17. Mandy Hickson

Official Speaker Rating: 8.7/10

Mandy Hickson stands as a beacon of female empowerment and an inspiring motivational keynote speaker, drawing from her remarkable journey in the Royal Air Force to engage and uplift her audiences. Her narrative is not just about her unprecedented achievements as one of the few female pilots in the Frontline Tornado Squadron but also about resilience, overcoming setbacks, and breaking barriers.

Through her role as a performance coach and her work with Inspiring Women for Work, Mandy has dedicated herself to boosting women's confidence and aiding their professional advancement. Her talks, enriched with personal anecdotes and strategic insights from her aviation career, resonate with themes of perseverance, strategic risk-taking, and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure. Mandy Hickson's story embodies the spirit of determination and serves as a powerful source of motivation for individuals and teams alike, making her a highly sought-after speaker across various platforms.

Official Testimonial for Mandy Hickson:

"Particularly appreciated the external perspective on overcoming challenges and preparing for them" - Royal Bank of Scotland

18. Sebastian Coe

Official Client Rating: 9.0/10

Sebastian Coe is a towering figure in British sport, renowned for his pivotal role in the success of the London Games. As a sports and peak performance motivational keynote speaker, his credentials are impeccable. A distinguished athlete, Sebastian clinched Olympic gold medals in the 1500m at both the 1980 and 1984 Olympics, establishing himself as a legend in middle-distance running.

His transition from an elite athlete to a respected figure in sports administration, serving as President of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and Executive Chairman of CSM Sport & Entertainment, further amplifies his expertise. Sebastian’s experiences, from setting world records to orchestrating the London 2012 Games, offer a wealth of insights into achieving excellence. His eloquence and profound understanding of sports make him an exceptional choice for any event, promising to inspire and captivate audiences with tales of resilience, leadership, and the pursuit of greatness.

Official Testimonial for Sebastian Coe:

“Seb’s content and delivery were truly inspirational. We have never seen such a universal and overwhelming reaction.” - Deloitte

19. Tracy Edwards

Official Client Rating: 8.7/10

Tracy Edwards, a trailblazing British sailor, has profoundly impacted the realms of sailing and motivational speaking. By leading the first all-female crew to triumph in a major race, she broke through decades-old gender barriers, showcasing her exceptional leadership and sailing prowess. Tracy's journey from a novice sailor to a celebrated athlete is a testament to the power of determination, teamwork, and resilience.

As a keynote speaker, she captivates audiences with her inspiring story, imparting wisdom on overcoming adversity, fostering team cohesion, and pursuing excellence. Her accolades, including the Yachtsman of the Year award and an MBE, underscore her remarkable achievements. Tracy Edward's experience in building high-performing teams and her commitment to empowering others through her speaking engagements make her a formidable figure in both the sailing world and the realm of motivational speaking.

Official Speaking Topics for Tracy Edwards:

• Identifying the characteristics of an effective leader, developing personal leadership qualities and implementing them
•  
• Demonstrating how teams are led and motivated towards success by creating the right environment for those teams to reach their full potential
• Demonstrating how teams are led and motivated towards success by creating the right environment for those teams to reach their full potential

20. Jason Robinson

Official Client Rating: 9.4/10

Jason Robinson, an emblem of peak performance and teamwork in the realm of rugby, transcends his illustrious playing career to inspire as a keynote speaker. With an unmatched legacy that includes pioneering roles and remarkable achievements—such as being the first mixed-race player to captain England, scoring in the 2003 World Cup Final, and securing an OBE—Jason brings invaluable insights into achieving excellence and sustaining motivation.

His journey from a child prodigy at Hunslet Boys Club to a World Cup hero and a revered coach showcases his dedication, resilience, and leadership. Drawing from his profound experiences, Jason adeptly addresses the essentials of mental resilience, overcoming adversity, and the art of leading by example. His narrative is not just about rugby; it's a testament to the power of determination, making him a sought-after speaker for fostering teamwork, ambition, and peak performance in any field.

Official Speaking Topics for Jason Robinson include:

• International Rugby
• Mental Resilience
• Maximising Success
• Peak Performance
• Overcoming Adversity
• Dealing with Pressure

Hire a Top Motivational Keynote Speakers for Events in London!

If you are interested in hiring one of our highly rated motivational keynote speakers, get in touch with us today! You may complete our online contact forms or call one of our dedicated booking agents on 0207 0787 876 to hire a speaker.

This blog post was exclusively written by Jack Hayes, a leading expert in Motivational Speakers, who has drawn on his insights from official data and customer feedback gathered from 987 conferences and events in all 32 Boroughs in London over the past two years (2022-2024) to create this exclusive blog post.