Rita Clifton

Rita Clifton, who has been hailed as the ‘Brand Guru’ by the Financial Times, has been leading the way in branding and advertising for over 35 years. As former CEO of Interbrand, Rita is now sought for the role of non-executive director by companies wanting to replicate her international success. From business leadership to an acclaimed author, Rita's influence across the industry is defining and continues to benefit corporate clients, and inspire individuals. As a keynote speaker, she expands on how to build a world class brand, leading as a woman, building a personal brand and utilises her experiences to add value to her audiences. 

At events, the revered branding expert can act as both a business keynote speaker and after dinner speaker. With such an extensive career, full of trial, error, and achievement, Rita’s after dinner engagements are captivating for audiences, who enjoy listening to her honest account of high-profile business leaders. Similarly, as a continued spearhead in the industry, Rita’s implementable advice and first-hand experience of navigating each aspect of business perfectly place her for business keynote talks. Previous clients include the likes of Google, Barclays, and TEDx, who benefited from her exploration of building a world-class brand, branding in a digital age, and disruption in the industry. She is now the Deputy Chair of John Lewis Partnership and has been appointed Chairperson of Simplyhealth in 2025.

Starting her career at Saatchi & Saatchi, Rita climbed the ladder, a pioneering woman in business, until 1995 when she became the Vice Chairman and Executive Planning Director. After eleven years as the ad agency’s brand builder, Rita joined as the CEO and Chairman of Interbrand in 1997. Under her expertise, Interbrand became a household name, a market leader, and a thriving business, a testament to Rita’s ability to create timeless and exciting brands. Proving once more her ability to take a brand global, in 2013 she co-founded BrandCap, and only a year later was appointed CBE for her services to the advertising sector. Rita also serves as Chair of Forum of the Future, working closely with Executive Director Dr. Sally Uren. 

Once regarded as ‘Brand Leading the Brands’ by The Daily Telegraph, Rita has served as a Non-Executive Director to a portfolio of clients, including Nationwide Building Society, ASOS, and BP. The former University of Cambridge graduate has returned to her school as a Visiting Fellow educating others through her experience, and, furthers this through her bestselling books like "The Future of Brands", "Brands and Branding" and "Love Your Imposter". Her talents as a keynote speaker are evident from her TEDx talk "Branding Democracy". If you are looking for an accomplished female business keynote speaker, look no further than Rita Clifton!