James Kanagasooriam is one of Britain’s leading experts on political polling, behavioural data and geo-demographics, renowned for helping organisations understand the forces shaping public opinion, leadership and societal change. As the Chief Research Officer at Focaldata, an Honorary Professor at the University of Glasgow and an Advisory Board Member of Onward, James has built a reputation for translating complex analytics into practical, human-centred insights. Combining political intelligence with behavioural science, he is widely hired as a speaker to explain how people think, vote, engage with change and respond to uncertainty. His ability to turn sophisticated research into compelling, accessible narratives makes him a sought-after voice for leadership events, conferences and corporate audiences navigating rapidly evolving social and political landscapes.
After graduating from the University of Cambridge, James began his career in finance as an Investment Banking Strategist at Rothschild & Co before moving into strategy and consulting. He later transitioned into political and behavioural research at Populus, where he became Head of Analytics and Political Strategy, leading major segmentation and voter behaviour projects during Scottish parliamentary and General Election campaigns. Alongside his political expertise, he developed commercial strategy experience at OC&C Strategy Consultants before becoming a Partner of Polling and Data Science at Hanbury Strategy. Expanding his international influence, James later co-founded Stack Data Strategy, further cementing his reputation as a leading authority in geo-demographics, political analytics and behavioural insight.
Throughout his career, James has worked on more than ten national and international political campaigns across the UK, Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France and the Republic of Ireland. His expertise has made him a respected commentator on modern political behaviour, cultural change and emerging social trends. He coined the term the 'Red Wall' and has contributed analysis to The Times Red Box and appeared on BBC Newsnight and BBC Radio 3, where he shares insights into public opinion, electoral psychology and the future of society.
James is hired as a speaker because he delivers a rare combination of intellectual depth, commercial awareness and real-world political experience. His presentations help audiences understand how data influences leadership, culture, consumer behaviour and decision making during periods of disruption and uncertainty. Whether discussing behavioural science, political psychology or the future of social trends, James communicates highly technical concepts in a clear, engaging and thought-provoking manner. His ability to connect advanced analytics with human motivation gives organisations practical frameworks for understanding change, building resilience and influencing outcomes. For businesses, leadership teams and conference audiences seeking fresh perspectives on people, behaviour and the future of society, James offers insights that are both academically rigorous and immediately relevant.
- 2026 - Speaker at Davos
- 2025 - Became Honorary Professor at the University of Glasgow
- 2022 – Became a research assistant in the policy institute at King's College London, contributing to political and policy research.
- 2021 – Co-founded Stack Data Strategy as CEO, advising organisations on data driven strategy and behavioural analysis.
- 2019 – Appointed Partner of Polling and Data Science at Hanbury Strategy.
- 2018 – Worked as a management consultant at OC&C Strategy Consultants, advising businesses on commercial and strategic growth.
- 2017 – Led analytical strategy work during the UK General Election, supporting major political campaign operations.
- 2016 – Directed analytics and political strategy projects during the Scottish parliamentary elections at Populus.
- 2014 – Became Head of Analytics and Political Strategy at Populus, specialising in voter modelling and behavioural analysis.
- 2012 – Joined Rothschild & Co as an Investment Banking Strategist.
- 2010 – Graduated from University of Cambridge.
How to hire James Kanagasooriam
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring James Kanagasooriam 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.
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