Roula Khalaf

Roula Khalaf is a distinguished journalist and the current Editor of the Financial Times (FT), a role she assumed in 2020, becoming the first female editor in the newspaper’s 131-year history. Known for her incisive analysis and deep understanding of global affairs, she has built a remarkable career covering international politics, business, and the complexities of the Middle East. Khalaf's journalism career began at Forbes magazine in New York, where she honed her skills as a staff writer. In 1995, she joined the FT as a North Africa correspondent, marking the start of her decade-long tenure with the publication. Over the years, she took on increasingly senior roles, including Middle East Editor, Foreign Editor, and Deputy Editor, before taking the top editorial position.

During Roula's 13 years as Middle East Editor, she extensively reported on Iraq, the Gulf, North Africa, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, becoming a leading voice in international journalism. Her fearless reporting has earned her multiple accolades. In 2009, she received The Peace Through Media Award from the International Media Awards, and in 2013, she won the Print & Web Feature Story of the Year Award from the Foreign Press Association for her groundbreaking series Qatar: From Emirate to Empire, co-written with Abigail Fielding-Smith. This investigative work provided deep insights into Qatar's growing influence on the global stage. Roula has also been shortlisted for prestigious awards, including Foreign Reporter of the Year at the Press Awards and the One World Media Awards.

Roula Khalaf regularly appears on major TV and radio networks, sharing her perspective on critical global issues. Her deep knowledge, fearless reporting, and editorial leadership make her a compelling speaker for audiences seeking insights into the complex interplay of politics, business, and global conflict. Roula's ability to secure high-profile interviews further underscores her journalistic acumen. In 2022, she published an exclusive interview with Elon Musk, in which the Tesla and SpaceX CEO discussed his future plans for Twitter and his broader business ventures.

As a keynote speaker, Khalaf is sought after for her expertise in international affairs, Middle East conflict, geopolitics, and global business trends. Drawing on her extensive field experience and editorial leadership, she offers unparalleled insights into the shifting dynamics of global power, the economic and political challenges facing the Middle East, and the broader impact of international developments on business and finance.