Launching a business is tough, but keeping it thriving is even harder. Statistics show that while only 4% of businesses fail in their first year, this jumps to 34% by the second year and 50% by the third. The key to long-term success? Learning from those who’ve been there before. The best business speakers bring real-world insights, leadership strategies and actionable advice to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges, build resilience and drive growth.
Source: Experian
What is the Secret to Successful Business?
There are many secrets to a successful business. A company that focuses on solving real problems and delivering value to customers naturally achieves long-term growth. Innovation should also be embedded in the business philosophy, fostering continuous improvement and adaptability. Leveraging data for informed decision-making enhances efficiency and strategy. Organisation and detailed record-keeping ensure smooth operations and financial clarity. Analysing competitors helps businesses stay competitive and identify opportunities. Lastly, being strategic while encouraging creativity leads to sustainable success, as it balances structured planning with fresh, innovative ideas that keep the business dynamic and resilient.
Source: Forbes & Investopedia
Who are the Best Business Speakers to Hire in 2025?
To help you achieve business success, hire an inspiring business speaker who has conquered your industry and become one of the leading keynote speakers in business management. Champions Speakers Director, Jack Hayes, has collated his exclusive selection of the best business speakers to hire in 2025 below – hand-picked using official event poll data from 429 business-themed events between 2023 and 2025.
1. Ella Mills
Ella Mills is a highly sought-after business speaker, renowned for her expertise in entrepreneurship, brand-building and wellness. As the founder of Deliciously Ella, she transformed a personal health journey into a global plant-based food brand, with products in over 10,000 stores across Europe and beyond. Her business success, combined with her insights on resilience and innovation, makes her a compelling speaker for corporate audiences. Ella’s ability to navigate challenges, scale a purpose-driven brand and shape the wellness industry offers valuable lessons on leadership, sustainability, and consumer engagement, making her an ideal choice for business and well-being events.
Official Feedback for Ella Mills:
"Ella was really inspirational and she came across as such a warm and kind person and spoke with such honesty and openness about her journey and continued quest for "wellness" - she was a perfect speaker for what we were looking for and covered all the topics we hoped she would speak about." - Vonage
2. Tim Campbell
Tim Campbell is a sought-after business speaker, renowned for his expertise in entrepreneurship, strategy, and diversity and inclusion. As the winner of The Apprentice and former Director at Amstrad, he built a strong business foundation before co-founding the Bright Ideas Trust, supporting young entrepreneurs. With roles in corporate leadership, including Strategic Diversity & Inclusion Advisor at AMS, Tim’s insights span recruitment, fintech, and business planning. His engaging presentations provide actionable takeaways, inspiring audiences to innovate and lead. A published author and experienced speaker, Tim is a powerful choice for corporate events, delivering motivational and strategic business insights.
Official Feedback for Tim Campbell:
"Tim was very passionate about his area of work and was very well received by the event delegates" - University of Surrey
3. Holly Tucker
Holly Tucker is a sought-after business speaker thanks to her remarkable entrepreneurial success. As the co-founder of Not On The High Street and founder of Holly & Co, she has transformed the small business landscape, generating £1 billion for the UK economy. Holly’s expertise in start-ups, creativity and risk management makes her an inspiring choice for corporate events. With accolades like Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and an MBE, she offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and resilience. Through her powerful storytelling, Holly empowers audiences to embrace their entrepreneurial potential and drive meaningful business growth.
Official Feedback for Holly Tucker:
"Holly was fantastic! Our clients loved her, she really did end our event with a bang! We actually gave our guests feedback cards to complete on the day and Holly’s name was mentioned a few times as their highlight from the day." - RedEye
4. Brent Hoberman
Brent Hoberman is a visionary entrepreneur best known for co-founding Lastminute.com and leading its $1.1 billion sale. With decades of experience founding and investing in companies like Made.com and PROfounders Capital, he empowers the next generation through incubators, networking, and funding. As Chair of Founder Factory and Co-Chair of the Prime Minister’s Business Council, he advises on business innovation, AI, and entrepreneurship. A sought-after keynote speaker, Brent shares transformative insights on scaling businesses, leveraging technology, and fostering innovation. Appointed CBE for his contributions, he inspires audiences with real-world strategies for success in the evolving business landscape.
Official Feedback for Brent Hoberman:
"One of the great stories of the past 4/5 years. Thoroughly enjoyable." - Vantis
5. Jo Malone
Jo Malone is a highly sought-after keynote speaker who is celebrated for her entrepreneurial success and pioneering impact on the fragrance industry. As the Founder of Jo Malone London and Jo Loves, she transformed perfume branding, earning global recognition. Her journey, from humble beginnings and overcoming adversity, including dyslexia and breast cancer, to building and selling a multi-million-pound business, resonates with audiences. Honoured with a CBE for her contributions to the British economy, Jo shares insights on creativity, resilience, and business growth. Her inspiring story captivates corporate audiences, making her an ideal business speaker for events seeking motivation and innovation.
Official Feedback for Jo Malone:
"Touching, realistic and full of determination – good insights from an entrepreneur at a late stage." - News International
6. Brian McBride
Brian McBride is a sought-after business keynote speaker due to his expertise in leadership, digital transformation and growth mindset. As the former CEO of Amazon UK, he led its evolution from an online bookstore to a dominant marketplace, increasing sales from £3bn to £5bn. His leadership at ASOS and Trainline further cemented his reputation for scaling businesses in fast-changing industries. With senior roles at IBM, Dell and T-Mobile, Brian shares invaluable insights on innovation, adaptability and leadership. His speeches inspire audiences to embrace digital disruption as an opportunity, drawing from experiences with Jeff Bezos and Amazon’s leadership principles.
Official Feedback for Brian McBride:
"Brian’s talk was excellent and went down so well with our customers who have all commented on how much they enjoyed his talk on their feedback forms." - Logistex
7. Dhiraj Mukherjee
Dhiraj Mukherjee is a sought-after keynote speaker due to his expertise in innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies. As the co-founder of Shazam, he transformed an idea into a global success, culminating in its $400M acquisition by Apple. With a background in consulting, strategy and digital innovation, he offers actionable insights into business growth, investment and future trends. His experience as an investor in 250+ startups, including OpenAI, further solidifies his authority on disruptive technologies. Dhiraj’s engaging presentations, such as "How to Adapt to the Future", equip audiences with strategies to navigate change and drive business success.
Official Feedback for Dhiraj Mukherjee:
"Dhiraj's inspiring stories and authenticity resonated really well with this senior audience. The feedback from guests was incredible; his friendliness, humour and humility were especially highlighted" - Jonathan, Product Marketing, Google
8. Baroness Karren Brady
Baroness Karren Brady is a highly sought-after business speaker, renowned for her inspirational leadership and entrepreneurial success. As the former Managing Director of Birmingham City and Vice-Chairman of West Ham United, she transformed businesses and broke barriers in male-dominated industries. A trusted advisor on The Apprentice and former Government Small Business Ambassador, she champions women in business and young entrepreneurs. Named among the UK’s most powerful women, she shares invaluable insights on leadership, resilience and business growth. Engaging and motivational, Karren’s speeches captivate audiences, making her an ideal choice for corporate and industry events.
Official Feedback for Baroness Karren Brady:
“As one of the UK's leading hospitality brands we recently engaged Karren to deliver a keynote speech at our annual conference in Manchester for circa 2200 delegates. Karren’s speech was totally ‘on-message’ and really resonated with our team members. Karren’s appearance created a real WOW for our team members Costa Coffee.” - Costa Coffee
9. Sir Richard Branson
Sir Richard Branson is one of the world’s most influential entrepreneurs, renowned for founding The Virgin Group, which has pioneered over 400 ventures across multiple industries. A self-made billionaire who overcame dyslexia and early setbacks, Richard embodies resilience, innovation and fearless ambition. His business insights, global branding expertise and philanthropic initiatives inspire audiences worldwide. As a transformational speaker, he shares lessons on risk-taking, leadership and creativity, making him an ideal choice for events focused on business growth and success. If you seek a dynamic speaker to motivate and educate, Sir Richard Branson delivers unparalleled impact.
10. Dame Inga Beale
Dame Inga Beale is a sought-after business speaker due to her groundbreaking leadership as the first female CEO of Lloyd’s of London and her dedication to workplace equality. With expertise in finance, insurance and global markets, she shares insights on business management, resilience and economic trends. A champion for diversity, she founded initiatives like Pride@Lloyds and the Insurance Supper Club, advocating for inclusive workplaces. Her experience navigating Brexit’s impact on business adds further value to her talks. Engaging and inspiring, Dame Inga offers invaluable lessons on leadership, innovation and overcoming adversity in corporate environments.
Official Feedback for Dame Inga Beale:
"Thought Inga was great and I feel that the feeling was mutual so please thank her from all of us." - Cordelia, Operations Associate, Google
11. Jo Salter
Jo Salter is a highly sought-after business speaker due to her pioneering journey as the first female fast jet pilot in the RAF and her extensive leadership experience. Having thrived in high-pressure environments, she shares compelling insights on resilience, analytical thinking and overcoming adversity. As PwC’s Director of Global Transformative Leadership and a former military squadron leader, Jo combines real-world leadership lessons with corporate expertise. She engages audiences with her inspiring stories, motivating them to embrace challenges and drive personal growth. Confident in addressing large audiences, Jo delivers impactful keynotes and workshops that resonate with business professionals.
Official Feedback for Jo Salter MBE:
"Listening to Jo recount her experiences really brought home just how ground-breaking her career has been. Yet, despite her impressive achievements, she was willing to talk frankly about the mistakes she made along the way. We were delighted to be able to welcome Jo into the organisation. She spoke with warmth and humour - and had an infectious energy that gave everyone attending a boost." - Jamie, Learning Programme Manager, Ministry of Defence
12. Nina Schick
Nina Schick is a sought-after business speaker, renowned for her expertise in generative AI and its transformative impact on industries. As the author of DEEPFAKES: The Coming Infocalypse and Founder of Tamang Ventures, she pioneers discussions on AI’s future, ethics and digital authenticity. Having advised global leaders, including President Joe Biden, Nina offers invaluable insights into AI’s exponential growth. A LinkedIn Top Voice in AI and a speaker at WebSummit and TEDx, she captivates audiences with predictions like “90% of online content will be AI-generated by 2030”. Hire Nina Schick for cutting-edge AI strategies that shape the future of business.
Official Feedback for Nina Schick:
"We had excellent feedback from our guests on the quality of the speakers, with Nina being at the very top! Her presentation was pitched just right and extremely popular." - Transparity
13. Duncan Wardle
Duncan Wardle is a sought-after keynote speaker for businesses seeking to ignite creativity and innovation. As the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney, he spent 25 years mastering the art of turning ideas into reality. Now, through his Ideate consultancy, Duncan helps organisations break conventional thinking patterns and foster a culture of innovation. His engaging workshops teach businesses how to solve problems with creative strategies, enhance customer experiences, and drive profitability. With accolades from TEDx, Yale, and Harvard, Duncan’s dynamic presentations leave a lasting impact.
Official Feedback for Duncan Wardle:
"In one word I would explain Duncan’s creativity training as transformative. One day with Duncan created more than a year of conversation and fresh approaches to brainstorming throughout our agency." - Pacific Gas & Electric Company
14. John Amaechi
John Amaechi is a highly sought-after business speaker, renowned for his expertise in organisational psychology, leadership and high-performance teams. As the Founder of APS Intelligence Ltd, he helps organisations enhance productivity, inclusion and workplace culture. A former NBA player, John transitioned into a successful consulting career, advising top companies on diversity, leadership and organisational behaviour. His influential work with global brands and institutions, combined with his acclaimed books and public advocacy, make him a top choice for corporate events. Recognised as one of HR’s Most Influential Thinkers, John delivers insightful speeches on leadership, change management, and workplace excellence.
Official Feedback for John Amaechi:
"John has a great story. His talk stimulated lots of discussions and was clear and inspirational." - Deutsche Bank
15. Noreena Hertz
Noreena Hertz is a globally recognised economist and keynote speaker, known for her expertise in economics, technology, politics and innovation. With a PhD from Cambridge and an MBA from Wharton, she has advised global leaders and served on prestigious boards, including Warner Music Group and Mattel. A bestselling author and media personality, her insights shape business strategy and decision-making. Regularly speaking at TED and the World Economic Forum, Noreena captivates audiences with her thought leadership. For organisations seeking a visionary speaker on strategy, innovation, and the future economy, Noreena Hertz is a top choice.
Official Feedback for Noreena Hertz:
"Inspiring speaker. Noreena's charm, wit and intelligence made for an enthusiastic audience reaction" - Institute of Social Studies & Oxfam-Novib Debate, The Hague
16. Jo Fairley
Jo Fairley is a sought-after business speaker due to her remarkable entrepreneurial journey and expertise in ethical business practices. As the co-founder of Green & Black’s, she built an organic chocolate brand worth over £100 million, pioneering sustainable and ethical business models. With a diverse career spanning publishing, retail and wellness, Jo offers invaluable insights on resilience, brand-building and innovation. Her global keynote talks attract businesses, entrepreneurs and corporate clients, including HSBC and Deloitte. Recognised as a leading environmentalist by Forbes, Jo’s compelling storytelling and first-hand business experience make her an inspiring and authoritative voice in the industry.
Official Feedback for Jo Fairley:
"I just wanted to say thank you so much for coming to our event on Monday. We had brilliant feedback from everyone that attended - it was along the lines of 'inspiring speaker', 'engaging and humourous' and 'amazing career story'. Other interesting feedback... it was great to have a story from a woman where there haven't been significant barriers because of gender." - Bernadette, Senior Counsel of International Acquisition Finance, Mizuho Bank
17. Penny Power
Penny Power is a sought-after business speaker because of her pioneering work in professional networking and community building. As the Founder of Ecademy, the first online business network, she revolutionised digital connections, emphasising relationships over transactions. Her keynote, Human Touch in a Digital World, inspires businesses to prioritise authenticity, mental wellbeing and sustainable success. With experience advising major brands like Microsoft and Salesforce, Penny delivers powerful insights on leadership, resilience and the future of business relationships. Her expertise in entrepreneurship, technology and human connection makes her an invaluable asset to any corporate event or leadership gathering.
Official Feedback for Penny Power:
"Penny recently delivered a phenomenal closing keynote speech at our recent Paraplanner Conference to a diverse audience pitching to the theme of the conference accordingly. In the session, Penny discussed the critical importance of connection, compassionate and human-centric practice in an era increasingly dominated by screens and virtual interactions by providing engaging and thought-provoking talk with good humour, leaving attendees inspired and curious" - Becky, Conference Manager, Chartered Institute of Securities & Investments
18. Sir Terry Leahy
Sir Terry Leahy is a sought-after business speaker due to his transformational leadership as Tesco’s former CEO. Knighted for services to retail, he spearheaded Tesco’s rise to the UK’s No.1 supermarket and the world’s third-largest retailer. Renowned for his expertise in global branding, business diversification and strategic growth, Terry shares invaluable insights on resilience, leadership and market innovation. His success, from humble beginnings to Fortune European Businessman of the Year, makes him an inspiring figure. A dynamic speaker, he advises startups and corporations alike, offering actionable strategies for overcoming setbacks, driving growth and future-proofing businesses.
19. Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones
Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, best known as The Black Farmer, is a dynamic business speaker whose entrepreneurial journey inspires audiences worldwide. As the founder of a multi-million-pound brand championing British farming, diversity and small business growth, Wilfred blends social impact with commercial success. His story, rising from inner-city Birmingham to achieving his farming dream at 40, resonates with those striving for success against the odds. With experience spanning politics, media and food marketing, he offers invaluable insights on risk, resilience and innovation. His engaging speeches empower businesses, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to embrace bold decision-making and drive meaningful change.
Official Feedback for Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones:
"Thank you for making our awards evening such a success. A significant number of individuals commented to me that they found your talk to be both interesting and inspirational. To have positive comments from such a diverse audience is an indication of how your presence enhanced the event for all who were present.” - Havering College
20. Levi Roots
Levi Roots is a highly sought-after business speaker, renowned for turning passion into profit. Rising from a grassroots upbringing in Jamaica to international success, he gained fame after securing investment on Dragons’ Den for his Reggae Reggae Sauce. His authentic journey, from selling at food markets to creating a multimillion-pound brand, inspires audiences worldwide. Levi shares insights on entrepreneurship, branding and resilience, making his talks engaging and motivational. With a dynamic personality, media presence, and award-winning products, he captivates audiences, proving that authenticity and determination are key ingredients for success in business.
Official Feedback for Levi Roots:
"Levi was a great entertainer with an excellent story of success." - UKTI
21. Dave Fishwick
Dave Fishwick is a highly sought-after business speaker, known for his inspirational journey from a building site to founding Burnley Savings and Loans Ltd, famously dubbed the "Bank of Dave". A charismatic entrepreneur and financial expert, he shares valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and ethical banking. His remarkable story, featured on Channel 4 and Netflix, demonstrates how he challenged big banks to create real change. A two-time BAFTA winner and best-selling author, Dave motivates audiences to embrace bold ideas and tackle challenges head-on, making him an ideal choice for business events seeking an engaging and impactful speaker.
Official Feedback for Dave Fishwick:
"Dave spoke at our Humber Biz Week Event, a mini-conference and exhibition to support local businesses. Dave helped make the event a real success. All feedback was excellent, people felt inspired, he was interesting and told a great story, his passion and determination to succeed really came through and most importantly, he is a very genuine person - a great guy! Thanks, Dave." - East Riding of Yorkshire Council
22. Kevin Gaskell
Kevin Gaskell is a sought-after keynote speaker renowned for his exceptional business acumen and inspirational leadership. As a former CEO of global brands like Porsche, BMW and Lamborghini, he has transformed struggling companies into industry leaders, generating over £3 billion in shareholder value. Kevin’s adventurous spirit, demonstrated through extreme expeditions and charitable initiatives, reflects his resilience and vision. With expertise in business management, turnaround strategies, and technology, he delivers actionable insights that inspire growth and innovation. Trusted by leading companies like Google, Virgin and Accenture, Kevin’s engaging presentations offer a masterclass in achieving extraordinary success in challenging environments.
Official Feedback for Kevin Gaskell:
"I have had the pleasure this week of listening to you speak to a St James Place audience in Portugal. It was fantastic - the best I have seen in my 24 years in the financial services industry. I am going to implement everything you said and hope it will have the same impact on my business as it has had on your business and life." - St. James’ Place
23. Hamish Taylor
Hamish Taylor is a sought-after business speaker renowned for transforming major brands like British Airways, Eurostar and Sainsbury’s Bank. With a career defined by innovation and strategic leadership, he shares insights on maximising success and navigating challenges. Known for pioneering customer-focused approaches, such as British Airways’ iconic flatbeds and Sainsbury’s Bank's retail-style management, Hamish captivates audiences with actionable advice. A recipient of prestigious accolades, including the Inspired Leaders Network award, his speeches combine unmatched expertise with a passion for brand identity and productivity. Hamish's consultancy-driven insights inspire organisations to improve quality, break into new markets and drive long-term success.
Official Feedback for Hamish Taylor:
"Is there such a thing as a perfect CV? Probably not, but in terms of the quality and profile of companies worked for, jobs done, education and achievement, Hamish Taylor’s takes some beating." - The Times
24. Kevin Eyres
Kevin Eyres is a highly sought-after business speaker, renowned for his expertise in technology, leadership and investment. As the former European Managing Director of LinkedIn, Kevin played a pivotal role in scaling the platform from 14 million to over 100 million members across eight countries. His extensive experience with leading Silicon Valley companies, including AltaVista and Kayak, has shaped his insights into innovation and global strategy. A passionate advocate for social enterprises and growth opportunities, Kevin captivates audiences with his knowledge of building thriving internet businesses and fostering leadership excellence, making him an ideal speaker for corporate and entrepreneurial events.
25. Jonas Kjellberg
Jonas Kjellberg, co-creator of Skype, is a trailblazing entrepreneur and sought-after business speaker. With over 20 years of experience in tech startups and innovation, Jonas has transformed ideas into globally recognised ventures. As Skype’s Managing Director, he spearheaded sales strategies that generated 90% of the company's revenue, turning it into a household name. Beyond Skype, Jonas has founded and led multiple successful ventures, mentored startups and served on boards of influential companies. Renowned for his actionable insights and dynamic delivery, Jonas inspires businesses and entrepreneurs to achieve transformative growth, making him a top choice for keynote speaking engagements worldwide.
Official Feedback for Jonas Kjellberg:
"The feedback for the conference has been overwhelmingly positive and Jonas is one of the big reasons why. He was impactful, charming and really funny. Jonas even got to talk to the President of The Slovak Republic at our Speaker’s dinner which he really enjoyed. All in all, I am very happy we could host him in Bratislava, he definitely was one of the highlights of the day – I’d say that for many, his speech was THE HIGHLIGHT." - FutureNow
26. Piers Linney
Piers Linney is a highly sought-after business speaker whose expertise spans AI, innovation and entrepreneurship. As Co-Founder of Implement AI, Piers helps businesses harness AI to drive growth and efficiency. A former investor on Dragons’ Den, Piers’ investments, like Wonderbly, achieved record-breaking success, showcasing his business acumen. His inspiring personal journey, from overcoming challenges to building diverse ventures, resonates with audiences. Recognised among the Top 100 Most Influential Black Britons, Piers champions diversity and inclusion, delivering actionable insights for positive change. His engaging storytelling and practical advice equip audiences to thrive in a tech-driven world, making him a transformative choice.
Official Feedback for Piers Linney:
"Offered a unique insight into the topics discussed based on his own experiences, and his genuine understanding of capital markets." - Thomson Reuters
27. Bruce Daisley
Bruce Daisley is a leading keynote speaker renowned for transforming workplace cultures. As the former Vice President of EMEA and UK Managing Director of Twitter, Bruce's leadership shaped the digital era through roles at Twitter and Google. Now, as the host of the No.1 business podcast Eat Sleep Work Repeat and a best-selling author, Bruce empowers businesses with insights on organisational behaviour, resilience, and leadership. Having worked with global giants like Google, Chanel, and Red Bull, Bruce brings a wealth of experience and practical strategies to energise workplaces and inspire positive cultural change. He’s the ultimate choice for business events.
Official Feedback for Bruce Daisley:
"The session was great, I think Bruce gave a lot of good tips to evolve our culture and make it stronger and more meaningful to everyone. He shared really interesting studies that bring the subject to life!" - Mariana, EDI Coordinator, Sovereign Network Group
What Can Be Learned from a Successful Business Leader?
A successful business leader teaches that growth is a mindset, not just a goal. By prioritising expansion, they shape their behaviour, risk-taking and investment strategies to align with long-term success. A powerful business leader inspires teams, fosters innovation and motivates people to be resilient in the face of adversity. A growth-orientated leader embraces challenges as opportunities, adapts quickly to change and strategically invests in people and technology. They analyse risks carefully and are not afraid to take bold steps. Their vision and strategic thinking create a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that the entire organisation remains agile, competitive and driven by progress.
Source: McKinsey & Company
Hire a Business Speaker with Champions Speakers Today!
If you are interested in hiring one of the expert business speakers mentioned above, contact Champions Speakers today! Call a booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form to begin the booking process.
This exclusive article on the best business speakers was authored by Jack Hayes, using official event poll data from 429 business-themed events between 2023 and 2025, and exclusive evidence from Experian, Investopedia and McKinsey & Company.
