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.

What is a Conference Facilitator?

The definition of a conference facilitator is:

"... 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.

The Top 5 Conference Facilitators to Hire

Using exclusive event feedback from over 298 events that had a facilitator, between 2022 and February 2025, Jack Hayes has collated the below selection of the top 5 conference facilitators to hire!

1. Naga Munchetty

Naga Munchetty is a highly experienced BBC presenter and journalist known for her clarity, confidence, and professionalism—making her an ideal conference facilitator. With a strong background in business journalism at Reuters, CNBC, Channel 4, and BBC News, she expertly navigates complex topics and engages audiences with ease. Naga’s presenting roles on BBC Breakfast, Newsnight, and Money Box, as well as her live coverage of major financial events, showcase her ability to handle high-pressure situations. Her charisma, sharp interviewing skills, and media presence—bolstered by her Strictly Come Dancing fame—make her a trusted and captivating host for conferences and corporate events.

2. 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.

3. Professor Brian Cox

Professor Brian Cox is hired as a conference facilitator for his unmatched ability to blend science with storytelling, captivating audiences of all backgrounds. A world-renowned physicist and broadcaster, he brings clarity to complex topics through eloquent speech, visual presentations and infectious enthusiasm. Known for his hit TV series and TED Talks, Brian connects with both younger and professional audiences, making him a popular choice for corporate and public events. His engaging onstage presence inspires curiosity and wonder, transforming scientific discovery into a memorable experience. As a trusted expert and passionate communicator, Brian elevates any event with insight, credibility, and entertainment.

4. Gail Emms MBE

Gail Emms MBE is hired as a conference facilitator for her dynamic presence, Olympic pedigree, and motivational storytelling. A decorated badminton champion with Olympic, World, and Commonwealth medals, Gail brings credibility, charisma, and deep sports knowledge to every event. Her articulate delivery, honed through broadcasting and public speaking, makes her a natural host and engaging facilitator. As a passionate advocate for women in sport and author of The Lost Lionesses, Gail connects with diverse audiences through powerful, relatable narratives. Her professionalism, inspiration, and energy make her the ideal facilitator for conferences seeking impact, authenticity, and Olympic-level excellence.

5. Bear Grylls

Bear Grylls is hired as a conference facilitator for his unique ability to captivate and inspire audiences with thrilling tales of survival, courage and resilience. A globally recognised adventurer and presenter, Bear’s vast experience - from scaling Everest to rowing naked for charity - makes him both entertaining and motivational. His high-profile media presence ensures instant recognition at events, while his military background and world-record expeditions add depth to his storytelling. Whether guiding celebrities through wilderness challenges or motivating scouts and corporate teams, Bear brings energy, humour and life lessons to every event, making him a transformative and unforgettable conference host.

Why Hire a Conference Facilitator?

Conference facilitators are hired to boost engagement, drive collaboration and ensure impactful outcomes. With the global annual employee engagement rate at just 23%, it’s clear that many teams struggle to connect meaningfully with content and each other. Facilitators energise audiences, create inclusive spaces for discussion and keep events focused and results-driven. They bridge the gap between passive attendance and active participation, making sessions more memorable and effective. Whether guiding panels, leading workshops, or moderating Q&As, facilitators turn good events into great ones - maximising ROI and ensuring attendees leave inspired, aligned and ready to act.

Source: Gallup

Hire a Conference Facilitator Today!

If you are seeking an expert conference facilitator or host for your next event, contact Champions Speakers today! Call a booking agent directly on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form to begin the booking process!

This exclusive article on the top conference facilitators to hire was authored by Jack Hayes, using exclusive event feedback from over 298 events that had a facilitator, between 2022 and February 2025. 

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