David Rowan

David Rowan is the leading authority on technology’s impact on business. With over three decades of experience as a technology journalist for major publications, and as an investor in over 60 tech-based start-ups, Rowan is unparalleled in his global reputation. Emerging technologies, business innovation and future opportunities are the topics at the forefront of Rowan’s keynote speeches, and as the Founding UK Editor in Chief of WIRED, areas Rowan is revered for his extensive contributions to. Hear from the expert your business needs, no matter the industry, to transform through tech, and the speaker who has already led Fortune 100 companies to future success.

A University of Cambridge graduate, Rowan began his career in technology journalism as the editor of The Guardian across a number of platforms, before beginning nearly a decade dedicated to his role of Founding Editor in Chief at WIRED UK. Working extensively with the digital innovators and companies that are shaping history, Rowan’s writing covered the founders of LinkedIn, Google and Twitter, with a focus on the technology of the future, at WIRED, The Times and GQ. In 2019 he published the Amazon Number One Bestseller ‘Non-Bullshit Innovation: Radical Ideas from the World’s Smartest Minds’ which set out proven strategies for future proofed success in the face of digital disruption and has been published in Japan, Korea, Ukraine and beyond.

An undeniable thought leader in his field, Rowan has since utilised his valuable insight to invest and advise over 60 startups, two of which have become billion-dollar ‘unicorn’ businesses, a testament to his dominance in the field. With access to a community of pioneering industry leaders, Rowan founded VOYAGERS in 2019, a collective of 250 people, spanning 30 countries that offer support, expertise and original ideas, through their magazine. He has also shared his knowledge as a technology columnist for GQ, Conde Nast Traveller, The Sunday Times and The Times. He is also the host of the Walks with Founders Podcast.

Experienced doesn’t come close to describing the impact Rowan has made as a speaker, with over 600 keynote talks to date, he is the only authority able to offer a comprehensive guide to the impacts of technology on sectors. Bespoke to each audience, Rowan’s talks are researched, compelling and interactive using a combination of mixed media to demonstrate his points. Alongside providing transformative talks for Coca-Cola, Facebook and HSBC, Rowan thrives as a moderator, recently working with international governments, TED, and the World Economic Forum. Much of Rowan’s work is focused on responding to downturns in the economic climate, post COVID-19 success and refreshing corporate culture, making him one of the most current speakers available on the circuit.

Deconstructing tech trends, David unpacks what major innovations will change businesses and consumers - such as artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles and quantum computing. He also educates audiences on how they can use technology-led innovations to build prosperity after the economic downfall of the Covid-19 pandemic. Booked by various sectors to explain how technology and innovation will impact a specific sector. When looking for a speaker who offers a truly unique perspective, through three decades of lived experience, on future technological impacts, look no further than David Rowan.

In March 2023 we sat down virtually with David Rowan and discussed how businesses can use data to optimise their performance. Watch our Exclusive Interview with David Rowan.