John Sitilides is a leading authority in global affairs and a dynamic keynote speaker, known for his strategic insights into international relations, national security, and U.S. foreign policy. A Senior Fellow in the National Security Program at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and a former Diplomacy Consultant to the U.S. Department of State (2006–2023), he delivers engaging, non-partisan presentations that illuminate the critical geopolitical shifts shaping today’s world. As a seasoned speaker, John captivates audiences ranging from Fortune 500 executives to military leaders with his ability to simplify complex global challenges and forecast their business and policy implications.
John’s path into the world of geopolitics began with his early work in Communications and Legislative Affairs for Senator Alfonse M. D'Amato in 1986, where he honed his understanding of the U.S. political system. This foundation in public service was strengthened during his tenure as Federal Affairs Manager at AKT Development Corporation in 1993, where he specialised in environmental and regulatory reform. These experiences sparked John’s commitment to public policy and international strategy, leading to a lifelong career helping organisations navigate volatile global landscapes.
Throughout his distinguished career, John has held numerous high-profile roles. In 1998, he became Executive Director of the Western Policy Center, where he focused on advancing U.S. interests in Southeast Europe. In 2005, he was appointed Chairman of the Southeast Europe Project at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, before joining the Board of Directors at Biovest International in 2006 and 3doo, Inc in 2013. John is a frequent contributor to major global media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and The Wall Street Journal, and has spoken at leading events including the U.S. Naval War College, Washington Oil & Gas Forum, and the Istanbul World Political Forum. His work has also earned him a reputation as a trusted voice for corporate, military, and investment communities worldwide.
Organisations hire John for his deep expertise, clarity of communication, and strategic foresight on topics that define the global agenda. His keynote, ‘Trump & the World: The New Geopolitics of Trade, Energy, Diplomacy, and War’, is a timely analysis of geopolitical risk, energy security, and great power competition. Speaking on everything from U.S.-China tensions to global supply chain threats, John empowers audiences to understand and respond to the evolving world order. His presentations are essential for leaders navigating the uncertain terrain of international business and policy.
John Sitilides' official speaking topics are listed below:
- China, Russia and America: Geopolitics & Geo-Economics in the Decade Ahead
- Geopolitics, Geo-Economic and Great Power Threats to Global Supply Chains
- The Big Picture: A Geopolitical and Geo-Economic Outlook
- Trump & the World: The New Geopolitics of Trade, Energy, Diplomacy, and War
- Washington and the World: The New Geopolitics of Great Power Rivalry
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
“You exhibit a rare ability to process difficult and complicated questions yet manoeuvring skilfully down unexpected avenues, all the while substantively addressing virtually every issue presented to you, no matter how off-beat or unexpected.” - U.S. Department of State
“Your passion for and understanding of the strategic geopolitical challenges facing the United States and global community are inspiring. Your presentation was excellent.” - Checchi Capital Advisers LLC
“You were clearly the best presenter…You have a unique gift to succinctly wrap geopolitical issues into a coherent methodology of whom, why and how.” - Ager Consulting
“Very much enjoyed your presentation - excellent poise, diction, delivery, substance, coordinated use of effective visuals, and audience connection - exemplary!” - Bird Capital Group
“Our participants were greatly impressed and satisfied with the way you guided us through the political landscape of the contemporary United States. Your insights provided us with a clear and solid background to understand the current changes in America.” - Telenor ASA
- 2023 – Senior Fellow of the Foreign Policy Research Institute, National Security Program
- 2013 – Appointed to the Board of Directors & Strategic Communications at 3doo, Inc
- 2006 – Appointed to the Board of Directors of Biovest International
- 2005 – Chairman of the Southeast Europe Project, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
- 1998 – Executive Director of the Western Policy Center
- 1993 – Federal Affairs Manager, AKT Development Corporation
- 1986 – Communications & Legislative Affairs for Senator Alfonse M. D'Amato
How to hire John Sitilides
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring John Sitilides 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.
