Eric Olander is a seasoned journalist and media executive, with over 30 years of international experience. As Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The China-Global South Project, he is a leading voice on China's diplomatic, economic, and political strategies in the Global South. Eric is sought after to discuss global issues with clarity and precision.
Eric’s journey began with a foundation in academia, earning a Bachelor’s in African History from UC Berkeley and a Master’s in International Public Affairs from the University of Hong Kong, specialising in Chinese foreign policy. His career evolved through high-profile positions at CNN International, BBC, and Associated Press, where he honed his expertise in global reporting and analysis.
Throughout his career, Eric has achieved significant milestones, including serving as Editor-in-Chief of FRANCE24.com, where he led multilingual newsrooms, and as Managing Editor Asia-Pacific at WPP, where he devised innovative media strategies for major corporations like Ford. Eric also co-hosts the widely acclaimed China in Africa Podcast, which has become a trusted resource for policymakers, academics, and journalists worldwide.
Audiences turn to Eric Olander for his unrivalled insights into topics such as China's Belt and Road Initiative, political risk in developing countries, and the transformative power of media. His engaging delivery, underpinned by decades of experience, makes him an invaluable speaker for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of international relations. Whether you're looking to explore the impact of China’s global strategies or gain insights into effective corporate communications, Eric provides the knowledge, context, and expertise that elevate any discussion.
How to hire Eric Olander
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Eric Olander for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Eric Olander's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Political risk analysis
- International relations in the Global South
- China’s economic and diplomatic strategies in Africa and Asia
- The evolution of media and digital communication
- China's role in shaping 21st-century global governance
- 2024 – Featured in Reuters for analysis on China's growing influence in the Global South
- 2023 – Expanded The China-Global South Project
- 2019 – Produced comprehensive media strategies for Ford Asia Pacific
- 2017 – Launched Ringier LABS in Vietnam, a pioneering studio for branded content
- 2012 – Appointed Editor-in-Chief of FRANCE24.com, overseeing multilingual newsrooms across French, English, and Arabic
- 2010 – Co-founded The China-Global South Project, establishing it as a leading platform on China-Africa relations
- 2000 – Directed E*TRADE Financial’s Digital Financial Media
