John Kampfner

John Kampfner is an award-winning author of seven books, a commentator and columnist on global affairs, politics and history. With over four decades of experience with an inspirational career spanning journalism, public life and leadership, he is known for providing insight into national and international issues. Currently close to completing his eighth book, his 2023 publication, ‘In Search of Berlin’, was a Waterstones history book of the month. John engages his audiences on the complexity of politics and international relations, making them accessible to all. 

John began his career as a Reuters trainee reporter in Moscow before becoming a correspondent for the Daily Telegraph. In 1995, he became Chief Political Correspondent for the Financial Times. His further work for the BBC and New Statesman established him as a trusted and well-known voice on world affairs. In 2002, he was a journalist for the BBC’s ‘The Ugly War’ two-part film, for which he won the Foreign Press Association award for Film of the Year and Journalist of the Year. Following this, in 2008, he served as the Founder Chair of Turner Contemporary, a leading UK art gallery. 

Throughout his career, John has had many influential roles, including a Member of Council at King’s College London and Chair of the Clore Social Leadership Programme. In 2014, he became the founder and CEO of the Creativity Industries Federation, working to amplify voices to cultivate creativity and become the catalysts of change. Currently, John works in multiple roles, including a Commentator at The Guardian, Columnist at POLITICO Europe, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study, Chairperson at Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration and a Senior Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute. 

John’s commentary is regularly sought by leading broadcasters, with him featuring regularly on BBC Radio 4, such as with the ‘World at One’. Additionally, he is a frequent guest on Channel 4 News, Channel 1 Germany, Times Radio, Guardian Podcast and BBC WS. His flourishing career has not gone unnoticed, with him being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in 2019 for his services to the arts by Bath Spa University. As a speaker, he is admired for providing thought-provoking, balanced and engaging keynotes. Drawing on his extensive experience, he provides real-world knowledge to leave audiences feeling informed and inspired.