James Payne

James Payne is a renowned keynote speaker and Global Head of Purpose of Business at Forum for the Future, where he leads the organisation’s work on the changing role and expectations of business in society. A pioneering regenerative business practitioner, James is widely recognised for his thought leadership on how businesses can be powerful drivers of both regeneration and social justice. As lead author of 'A Compass for Just and Regenerative Business', he has played a pivotal role in helping leaders respond to the increasing volatility and disruption shaping today’s operating environments, highlighting how businesses can evolve to remain relevant, resilient and responsible.

James’ career began at Guinness Ireland, where he joined the Graduate Programme and quickly established a strong grounding in consumer research and brand strategy. Starting as Assistant Consumer Planning Manager, he gained early experience in analysing consumer behaviour, before progressing to On-trade Sales Trainee. His talent and ambition saw him rise to Assistant Brand Manager of Guinness, followed by senior brand roles including Brand Manager of Smirnoff Ice & Bushmills Whiskey for Diageo Ireland. He went on to become Global Communications Manager and later Global Marketing Strategy & Innovation Manager of Baileys at Diageo Plc. Seeking to address wider societal and environmental challenges, James completed an MSc in Business & the Environment at Imperial College London in 2011 - a formative step that deepened his systems thinking and commitment to sustainability.

Since then, James has worked across consultancy, business and civil society, with a strong track record in integrating sustainability, strategy and innovation. He held senior roles including Sustainability Lead at Independents United, Director of 6heads, and Strategy Director and Consultancy Director at Given London Limited, where he advised brands on purpose and environmental impact. At Forum for the Future, he has led major initiatives with global businesses to reimagine value chains and transform consumption models. His recent work includes 2030 sustainability strategies for Diageo, Target and Royal Enfield, and applied futures programmes with Amazon, Henkel and Pearson. With more than two decades of cross-sector experience, James is known for bridging commercial and sustainability priorities to deliver transformational change.

As a keynote speaker, James brings clarity, inspiration and practical insight to every stage. He is particularly sought after for his expertise in regenerative business, ESG strategy, sustainable consumption, and value chain transformation—all of which are becoming urgent priorities for today’s business leaders. Whether addressing boardrooms or global conferences, James offers compelling, action-oriented perspectives that empower organisations to lead with purpose in turbulent times. If you're seeking a speaker who can make complex sustainability issues accessible, ignite new thinking, and equip your audience with the tools for transformational impact, hire James Payne today.

In February 2024 we sat down virtually with James Payne and discussed the importance of businesses focusing on tackling climate change and how future technologies will impact the climate battle. Watch our new and exclusive interview with James Payne.