John Taylor, best known as Lord Taylor of Warwick, is a distinguished figure whose career spans across legal, political, and media sectors. His journey from holding legal positions to becoming an MP for the Conservative Party marks him as a prominent figure in the upper echelons of government. John has seamlessly transitioned into media and broadcast work, leveraging his extensive experience and on-screen charisma.
John’s expertise is frequently sought after for speaking engagements, where he delves into topics such as racial equality, leadership, and inclusion. Despite the challenges posed by a lack of diversity in his field, John has navigated his path with remarkable resilience and vision, making him a sought-after commentator on both national and international stages.
Beginning his public service as a local councillor for Solihull, John's political aspirations soon led him to the constituency of St Alphege, where he served as the Conservative MP in 1985. His tenure saw him taking on the role of a Special Advisor to the Home Secretary and Ministers of State, during which he played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Criminal Evidence Amendment Act 1997. This legislation led to the establishment of the UK’s first DNA Database, underlining John's commitment to innovative and forward-thinking policies. Despite facing racial discrimination, his contributions were recognised when he was honoured with a peerage, becoming one of the youngest and the only Black peer in the House of Lords in 1996 as The Lord Taylor of Warwick.
John’s transition from politics to the corporate sector has been marked by his roles as a strategic advisor and board member for various prestigious organisations. His tenure as Vice-President of the British Board of Film Classification and as a Non-Executive Director of Mottram Holdings PLC showcased his ability to apply his governmental and legal expertise in a corporate context. Currently, he leads the Warwick Leadership Academy and actively contributes to the International Trade Council, reflecting his commitment to fostering leadership and promoting international trade. He is also the Host of the Taylor Talks podcast.
As a keynote speaker, John Taylor commands attention with his insightful reflections on overcoming the barriers of racial discrimination and advocating for a more inclusive and diverse professional environment. His ability to engage audiences with his experiences, combined with his on-screen presence honed through programmes like The John Taylor Show, ensures that his presentations are both compelling and enlightening. John's international speaking engagements, including appearances at the White House, the United Nations, and in Las Vegas—where he was awarded the freedom of the city and honoured with his own celebration day—highlight his global influence and the high regard in which he is held as a speaker on politics, leadership, and social change.
