Sir Ian Livingstone

Sir Ian Livingstone is one of the founding figures of the UK games industry and a highly respected keynote speaker whose career has shaped global entertainment. He is best known as Co-Founder of Games Workshop, the company behind Warhammer, and as Co-Creator of the Fighting Fantasy series, which transformed reading into an interactive experience for millions. A visionary entrepreneur and creative leader, his impact spans tabletop games, publishing, video games and education. In recognition of this extraordinary contribution, Ian was awarded a Knighthood in 2022 for services to the games and online gaming industry, cementing his status as one of Britain’s most influential creative business figures.

Ian’s early career was defined by curiosity, independence and a willingness to take risks. In 1975, driven by a passion for games and storytelling, he co-founded Games Workshop with friends, initially operating from a shared flat. What began as a small mail-order business quickly evolved as Ian helped introduce ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ to Europe, organised the first Games Day convention and launched ‘White Dwarf’ magazine, serving as Editor of White Dwarf from 1977 to 1986. These formative years shaped his belief in creativity, community and persistence, lessons he regularly shares with audiences seeking inspiration beyond conventional career paths.

Over the following decades, Ian built an exceptional record of achievement. He led the growth of Games Workshop from a bedroom startup into a global games manufacturer and retailer, before overseeing its sale in 1991. As an author, he co-created ‘The Warlock of Firetop Mountain’ in 1982, launching Fighting Fantasy, a series that has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and is widely credited with improving literacy and critical thinking. His success continued in video games as Executive Chairman of Eidos plc, where he helped launch iconic franchises including Tomb Raider and Hitman. His wider leadership includes serving as Chairman of Sumo Group plc, guiding the company through its sale to Tencent, and becoming a General Partner at HIRO Capital, investing in the next generation of games and entertainment businesses. His work has been recognised with honours including the BAFTA Interactive Special Award, an OBE, a CBE, and multiple honorary doctorates.

As a keynote speaker, Ian is valued for his rare ability to connect creativity with commercial success. He speaks with clarity and warmth about entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, digital skills and ‘the power of play’, grounding every insight in real experience. His role in co-authoring the Livingstone-Hope Next Gen Review and helping shape the UK computing curriculum gives him authority on education and future skills, while his ongoing work with schools and charities reflects a genuine commitment to developing talent. Audiences leave his talks energised, reassured and better equipped to build ideas into lasting success.