Mark Brooks OBE

Mark Brooks OBE is a leading national voice on men’s health, inclusion and domestic abuse. With over 25 years’ senior experience in communications, policy and advocacy, he has become one of the UK’s most respected authorities on the wellbeing of men and boys. He was awarded an OBE in 2019 for his pioneering work supporting male victims of domestic abuse and an Honorary Doctorate in 2023 from the University of West London for his outstanding contribution to public policy and inclusion. Mark’s talks combine depth, compassion and practicality, making him a sought-after keynote speaker for organisations seeking to understand and improve the lives of men and boys.

Mark’s early career was grounded in public service and communications. Born in Southeast London and the first in his family to attend university, he began as a Political Researcher before moving into national communications roles. He rose to become Head of Media at National Savings and Investments, where he created the now-iconic ‘Agent Million’ brand and won the CIPR Corporate and Financial Campaign of the Year. He later served as Head of Marketing and Communications at Shaw Trust, commissioning the UK’s first Disability Power 100 Awards, and then as Director of Communications and Marketing at the Education and Training Foundation, leading national campaigns to improve teaching and leadership standards in further education. These formative years gave him a unique perspective on how strategic communication can shape public understanding and social change.

Throughout his career, Mark has built an extraordinary record of leadership and advocacy. He is currently Director of Policy and Communications at the Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys, Chair of the ManKind Initiative, and National Ambassador for International Men’s Day UK. He has written and co-authored landmark reports such as ‘Missing Men’, ‘Boys will be Boys’ and the proposed ‘Men’s Health Strategy for England’. His evidence has influenced Parliamentary Committees, and he has helped secure recognition of men’s health as a national policy priority. Mark also serves as a Policy Advisor for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Issues Affecting Men and Boys and is an Associate of the Men’s Health Forum. His expertise has made him a trusted adviser to government, employers, charities and public bodies, as well as a regular voice on BBC, ITV and national radio.

Mark’s presentations are informed, accessible and full of insight. He speaks on men’s health, male suicide prevention, boys’ education, domestic abuse, and modern masculinity in the workplace. His ability to translate complex policy into practical action makes him an engaging and credible voice for audiences across sectors. People book Mark because he combines data and lived experience with empathy and clarity. His talks leave listeners more informed, more confident, and more equipped to make real change.