Ian Clarke, a London-born, racially non-binary and LGBT trailblazer, is a 10-time award-winning philanthropist, entrepreneur, and social justice advocate. At 39, Ian has been recognised by prestigious organisations such as Rising Stars, Lead5050, Social Entrepreneur Index, and Millennium Volunteers for his lifelong dedication to supporting, developing, and championing underrepresented talent.
With dual BSc degrees and numerous certifications (CPD, aLIBF, CPS, CF30, Cert. ICM, Cert. EDI), alongside a 14-year top-performing investment banking leadership career across two continents, Ian has advised some of the world's largest firms on financial success. His expertise spans Psychology, Therapy, Management, DE&I, and Investment Banking, making him a unique authority on humanism, leadership, and change.
Ian’s profound impact on sustainable business practices and human rights advocacy reached a pinnacle in 2021 with his groundbreaking Project Speak Up report. This landmark DE&I campaign, which examined the role of banks in perpetuating oppression, gained global attention, being covered in 16 languages across 120 countries. His efforts set seven world records, including the historic first appointment of a Black female board member at a major international bank.
As the founder and leader of Deilightful Group, Ian pioneers what he terms a "Change Engine"—a multi-award-winning, commercially-minded culture transformation practice, think tank and social enterprise dedicated to creating new rights and opportunities for marginalised communities worldwide. His philosophy and work exist to ensure humanity reaches its full potential.
A published author, consultant, and philosopher, Ian is a sought-after speaker known for his warm, engaging, and conversational style. He excels at transforming complex topics into cohesive narratives that solve problems, inspire others, and spread love. His signature topics include:
- Human Behaviour & Identity
- True Leadership & Driving Change
- The Workings of Hatred & Oppression
- Cosmology, Futurism & Existentialism
- Intersectional LGBTQ/Race/Gender Equality & Allyship
Ian’s unique authority is built on extraordinary life experiences, complex intersectionality, and an unparalleled ability to listen deeply and project empathy. He has co-founded and led five People Committees and Employee Networks, representing over 12,000 colleagues from marginalised communities. His life's work inspires and empowers others, challenging the status quo and paving the way for a more inclusive world.
Why do you exist?
In October 2024, we sat down exclusively with Ian to discuss how businesses can strive intersectional inclusivity. Watch our Exclusive Interview with Ian Clarke.
How to hire Ian Clarke
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Ian Clarke 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.
Ian Clarke's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Human behaviour & identity
- True leadership & driving change
- The workings of hatred & oppression
- Cosmology, futurism & existentialism
- Intersectional LGBTQ/race/gender equality & allyship
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
"Ian is a shining example of the progress in our industry and offers unique insights on the dialogue around Diversity & Inclusion and representation in finance". - Sophie, Editor, Treasury Today Magazine
"Working to eliminate racism, we are proud to call Ian Clarke a friend of the CPS". - Baljit, OBE, Head of Policy Strategy, Crown Prosecution Service
"A fabulous interview, Ian Clarke you are such an inspiration". - Jobanputra, CEO, The Hunger Project
"Ian Clarke, you are such an inspiration!" - Maria, Co-Founder, Lead5050
"An awe-inspiring speaker. Ian Clarke, thank you!" - Stacey, Strategy Director, Crown Prosecution Service
"Ian reminds us all what is to be human, and the damage done by narrow perspectives". - Grace, MBE, Co-Founder, Sister Sister Network
"A fabulous interview, Ian is such an inspiration." - Jobanputra, Founder of The Hunger Project
"Working to eliminate racism, we are proud to call Ian our friend." - Baljit, Director at the Crown Prosecution Service
- 2023 - Delivered the keynote address at the 28th Annual Seminar of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU), emphasising leadership, change management, and lifelong learning
- 2023 - Appointed as Chairman of the Advisory Board of CTI Global for East Africa, where he began working on leveraging technology to improve healthcare, agriculture, and financial inclusion across the region
- 2021 - Founded Deilight Consulting
- 2021 - Received Chartered Acreddiation in Diversity & Inclusion from Cornell University
- 2021 - Left HSBC and became the world's first banking whistle-blower on race inclusion
- 2017 - Named Vice President, Global Banking Sales (Transaction Banking) at HSBC
- 2015 - Became Director, Global Payments and Cash Management at HSBC
- 2011 - Became Deputy Global Relationship Manager, Global Banking and Markets
- 2009 - Graduated from the University of Manchester with a BSc (Hons) in Financial Markets and Management
- 2007 - Joined HSBC as International Commercial Associate Manager
- 2005 - Became Information Commercial Associate Manager for the Royal Household
