Professor Thom Brooks is one of the UK’s most influential public intellectuals working at the intersection of law, politics and civic identity. A distinguished scholar, institutional leader and trusted commentator, his work has shaped national debates on citizenship, migration, justice and the future of British democracy.
As Principal of Collingwood College, Durham University, Thom has played a central role in advancing student leadership, civic engagement and public service — strengthening one of the country’s most prestigious universities as a place where academic excellence meets public responsibility. His leadership blends intellectual vision with practical institutional impact.
A prolific author and thinker, Thom has written nine major books and over 150 peer-reviewed articles, chapters and public essays. His research has informed parliamentary discussions, government policy thinking, and national media conversations — most notably through his work on the British citizenship test, where he has been a consistent, evidence-based advocate for fairness, reform and national cohesion.
Thom is widely recognised as a bridge between academia, government, and the wider public. He is a regular contributor to BBC, ITV, Sky News and national newspapers, where he is known for his clarity, integrity and ability to explain complex issues in accessible terms. His interventions are marked by moderation, rigour, and a commitment to democratic values.
Internationally, Thom has held visiting appointments at world-leading institutions including Harvard University, the University of Oxford, and Yale Law School — reflecting his standing as a scholar of global repute. He is also the founding editor of the Journal of Moral Philosophy, demonstrating his leadership in shaping intellectual debate beyond the UK.
His career exemplifies public service through scholarship: combining research excellence, civic leadership and national engagement. Thom’s work speaks to the enduring questions of what it means to belong, how societies should govern themselves, and how the UK can navigate change with confidence, fairness and unity.
Why book Thom Brooks?
Audiences value Thom for:
- Authority with humility — world-class expertise delivered without elitism
- National perspective — able to connect local concerns to UK-wide policy
- Intellectual integrity — evidence-based, balanced, and principled
- Public leadership — someone who shapes debates, not just comments on them
When at corporate events, Thom is known to cover the following topics:
- Politics & Brexit
- Coaching & Development
- Current Affairs & Education
- General Election
- US Elections
- Law & Legal
- Management & Leadership
- Migration & Immigration
Thom is often booked as a speaker for corporate events, read his latest feedback below.
“Thanks again for your presentation at the International Trade Committee last week, it was really well received by everyone!” - Ben, Policy Advisor, North East Chamber of Commerce
“As you know, the audience enjoyed your talk. There's nothing more refreshing than having a speaker talk, with knowledge, who has no real need for slides, only for making points” - Dawn, Edinburgh Sceptics about Edinburgh Fringe Event
“So many people have told me it was their favourite talk since the start of the series and I don't disagree!” - Prof Constantine, organiser of ‘Why Philosophy Matters’ Public Lectures at Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum
“Professor Brook’s use of the available space is exemplary. I observed the students across the room and found them to be absorbed in the lecture. Professor Brooks talks directly to individual students who are happy to respond to the class as a whole. A number asked questions during the lecture and others approached Professor Brooks at its conclusion. Professor Brooks is an excellent lecturer – lively, engaged and very popular among the student body. This lecture was compelling, I learned a lot, and time passed very quickly.” - Prof Deirdre, Professor of Law, Durham University
“Thom sets the highest standards in teaching. His enthusiasm for teaching is both obvious and infectious, and is matched by a genuine concern for enhancing, and for adding value”. - Prof Roger, Professor of Law, Durham University
“In 16 years of Higher Education, this was clearly one of the best taught sessions I have witnessed. Dr Brooks is an outstanding lecturer and possesses excellent teaching skills”. - Prof Alex, Professor in Economic Geography, Newcastle University
How to hire Thom Brooks
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Thom Brooks 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.
