William Hague, Former Leader of the Conservative Party, stands as a prominent figure in modern politics, foreign affairs, and business. With a career spanning over thirty years, including his role as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Richmond, Yorkshire, William has earned the distinction of a life peer for his dedicated service. His resilience, influence, and leadership skills make him an ideal choice as a keynote speaker, not only in the political arena but also in leadership and business.
William's political journey includes a four-year tenure as the Leader of the Opposition and his appointment as Leader of the Conservative Party in 1997. Remarkably, at just 36 years old, he became the youngest leader of a major political party in two centuries. Before this, William served as the MP for Richmond since 1989, Minister of State for Social Security, and Secretary of State for Wales. William's most notable role came when he undertook the task of rebuilding the Conservative Party after their defeat in the 1997 election. His exceptional debating skills and leadership qualities were evident throughout his career, culminating in his appointment as Leader of the House of Commons and First Secretary of State during David Cameron's premiership. Under Cameron's trust and leadership, William was also named Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in 2010. In this role, he introduced a value-based foreign policy and strengthened the United Kingdom's international relations.
With a background in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from the University of Oxford, Hague's political prowess was recognized even during his school days. As a sixteen-year-old, he delivered a memorable and self-assured speech at the 1977 Annual National Conference of Conservatives, leaving a lasting impression on both party members and the media. While at Oxford, he served as President of the Oxford University Conservative Association and the Oxford Union, solidifying his path into high-profile politics.
William has also ventured into the world of literature, with four published works, one of which, 'William Pitt the Younger,' earned the prestigious History Book of the Year award at the National Book Awards. His eloquent and insightful speeches have earned him recognition, including The Spectator's Speech of the Year in 2007. Currently, as the Chair of the United for Wildlife Taskforce, William Hague continues to showcase the versatility that has defined his successful career. This versatility makes him an exceptional choice for audiences seeking expertise in politics, business, and leadership, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished keynote speaker.