Consider your conference facilitator as the conductor of your conference.

Able to control the tempo and feel, the best conference facilitators offer an unrivalled ability to prompt profound discussion on your desired topic. Switching from the light-hearted to the technical with consummate ease, the leading professionals in this area hold a baton of command over your panel. Their goal is to unite all parties.

Contents: 

• What is a conference facilitator?
• Why book a conference facilitator?
• Who are the best conference facilitators? 
• How do I book a conference facilitator? 

WHAT IS A CONFERENCE FACILITATOR?

Conference Facilitator Definition: 

"... a conference facilitator is a specialised event speaker booked to moderate a corporate, industry or public conference. They are responsible for setting the tone of the event and maintaining a strict schedule."

Source: Owl Labs

The role of a facilitator is to guide a discussion to satisfying conclusions via an engaging debate, covering all the topics you which to explore. Whatever the topics you plan to cover, knowing your facilitator has knowledge of the subject and can not only guide proceedings but chip in with thought-provoking questions on industry-specific areas, is fundamental to the success of your business conference.

WHY BOOK A FACILITATOR?

Having supplied thousands of speakers for trade shows, summits, forums and conferences in many countries around the world, our team has witnessed the benefits of booking a facilitator first-hand. Essential for a cohesive and reasoned conference, a leading chairperson can align ideas and viewpoints to ensure different opinions find common ground, allowing you to reach your aims.

Geared towards the objectives you set out for your discussion, experienced conference facilitators know when to weigh in further on a point, and when to move the conversation on. Staying neutral and knowing when to apply fresh input allows for discussions to stay on track, and for all parties to put their case across - as is good practise in business conference facilitation.

5 POPULAR CONFERENCE FACILITATORS

We have collated our top conference facilitators, videos of their recent appearances and why we think they truly are the best in the business. Can't see the speaker you need? Give our team a call and we will offer a selection of facilitators with your unique requirements in mind. 

HUW EDWARDS

An immensely knowledgeable events chair, Huw Edwards has been at the heart of some of the most historic events of recent times. Providing commentary for the London 2012 Olympic Games, the 2016 EU Referendum, The Proms and The Royal Wedding alongside his commitment to delivering such broadcasts as Panorama and Newsnight, Huw has proven himself among the most sought-after broadcasters in the UK. Naturally engaging and infinitely aware, he is one of the finest conference chairs around.

EMILY MAITLIS

A British journalist who has become a focal point of the news in recent times, Emily Maitlis is an expert in all things relating to the economy and current affairs, and her well-informed views and questions can provide the perfect backdrop for any erudite business conference. Presenter of Newsnight and a pinnacle figure in election coverage, Emily has spoken on the most fascinating events of our time.

ANTONIO NIETO-RODRIGUEZ

A renowned expert in cultural change and strategy, Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez has proven himself to be one of the most knowledgeable authorities in change management available to book. Helping senior managers to facilitate change and implement new strategies, Antonio is the perfect choice to guide any business discussion.

FIONA BRUCE

Since she was appointed presenter of the prestigious BBC current affairs debate show, Question Time, in 2018, Fiona Bruce has cemented her status as one of the UK’s most forthright and talented broadcasters. Becoming the first female host of the show, significant praise followed her appointment, with the BBC’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Fran Unsworth, stating: “[Bruce holds an] authority, warmth and ability to connect with the audience and champion their concerns”.

RUBEN CAROL

A professional actor and trained facilitator, Ruben Carol specialises in chairing conferences on such topics as equality and diversity. An amputee himself, Ruben expresses that his disability adds another level of understanding to any conference, especially on the topics of equal opportunities, inclusion and ableism. He ensures event objectives are met with participation and clear thinking from all involved.

BOOK A CONFERENCE FACILITATOR

If you are looking for specialists in a certain subject, you can browse our selection of conference facilitators. Alternatively, if you are open to suggestions, you can get in touch with a member of our team for recommendations and price lists for your event.

To book from our range of conference facilitators or conference speakers, simply contact the Champions Speakers agency by emailing [email protected] or by calling a booking agent directly on 0207 1010 553.