- Angie Lau: Broadcaster & Tech Entrepreneur, Hong Kong
- Adam Cheyer: Creator of Siri & VP of AI experience AirBnb, USA
- Michelle K. Lee: Founder and CEO of Obsidian Strategies, USA
- Jamie Laing: Broadcaster, Producer & Entrepreneur, UK
- Todd Buchholz: Economist, Former White House Advisor & Bestselling author, USA
- Sebastian Thrun: Co-founder of Google X, USA
- Sheena Iyengar: Expert in Choice and Decision Making, USA
- Chester Elton: Leadership coach & bestselling Business Author, USA
- Rory Stewart: Best-Selling Author & Former Diplomat, UK
- Claudia Zeisberger: Private Capital Expert & Best-Selling Author, France, Singapore, USA
In the always-evolving and ever-moving corporate world, keynote speakers have become a major part of successful corporate events, offering both inspiration and insight.
Whether the aim is to motivate a workforce, spark innovation, or share expert knowledge, the right keynote speaker can captivate an audience and leave a lasting impression. The role of a keynote speaker goes beyond simply delivering a speech, they have the power to shape the tone of the event, energise participants, and even shift mindsets.
A great keynote speaker can create a shared experience that resonates long after the event is over, making them a pivotal investment for companies looking to engage and inspire team members or even clients. The keynote speaker industry has seen steady growth with inspiring women and men giving speeches that resonate with audiences.
The topics they cover, ranging from leadership and change management to technology trends and diversity, can be tailored to meet the unique challenges and goals of your business.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the best and most popular keynote speakers for corporate events in the UK. Whether you’re planning a leadership summit, a product launch, or an annual corporate gathering, this guide will help you find the perfect speaker to make your event a success.
What Makes a Great Keynote Speaker for Corporate Events?
Selecting the right keynote speaker for a corporate event goes beyond choosing someone famous or well-spoken. A great keynote speaker possesses a combination of qualities that align with your company’s values, event goals, and audience needs.
The key attributes that make a keynote speaker truly impactful at corporate events:
- Expertise and Authority: A top-notch keynote speaker is an expert in their field, whether it’s leadership, technology, innovation, or motivational speaking. Authority on the subject is what gives credibility to their message. They draw from years of experience, success stories, and challenges to provide actionable insights that resonate with a corporate audience.
- Engaging Speaking Style: It’s not just about what a speaker says, but how they say it. Top keynote speakers know how to connect with the audience through storytelling, humour, and authenticity. They can turn complex topics into digestible ideas, hold the attention of the room, and leave a lasting impression with their delivery.
- Tailored Content: The best speakers don’t deliver generic presentations. They customise their message to align with your company’s vision, the event’s theme, and the challenges faced by the audience. This tailoring makes their speech more relevant and impactful, helping attendees feel like they are part of the conversation.
- Inspiring and Motivating: A great keynote speaker inspires action. Whether it’s encouraging teams to embrace change, think creatively, or work toward a shared goal, they leave the audience motivated and energised, ready to apply what they’ve learned.
Top Motivational Speakers for Corporate Events
All the speakers listed below stand out as some of the best available keynote speakers for corporate events.
Angie Lau
Angie Lau is a prominent figure in the world of journalism and blockchain, known for her insightful commentary and expertise in the rapidly developing digital economy.
As the founder and CEO of Forkast.News, a leading digital media platform covering blockchain, cryptocurrency, and emerging technologies, Lau has positioned herself as one of the foremost voices in this space.
With a background in traditional media, including years as an anchor for Bloomberg Television, she has seamlessly transitioned into the tech and blockchain sectors, bridging the gap between mainstream finance and the digital future.
Throughout her career, Lau has been a passionate advocate for transparency, innovation, and education within the blockchain industry. She frequently speaks at global conferences, sharing her deep knowledge on topics like decentralised finance (DeFi), tokenisation, and the regulatory challenges facing cryptocurrencies.
Her ability to demystify complex topics has made her a sought-after speaker and commentator, particularly as businesses and governments grapple with how to integrate blockchain technology into the broader economy. Lau’s influence extends beyond journalism; she is also a champion for women in technology and leadership.
As a respected leader in both media and blockchain, she has consistently highlighted the importance of diversity in tech, advocating for more female representation in decision-making roles.
Her work with Forkast.News and her leadership within the industry demonstrate her commitment to driving meaningful change in how the world understands and uses new technologies. As such, she appeals to corporate audiences and is a highly sought-after speaker.
Notable Achievements
- Founder and CEO of Forkast.News, a leading blockchain and emerging tech media platform.
- Former Bloomberg Television anchor with over a decade of experience in global financial reporting.
- Renowned speaker and commentator at major international conferences on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and technology.
- Advocate for diversity in technology and leadership, especially for women in tech.
- Key voice in educating global audiences about blockchain, DeFi, and cryptocurrency trends.
- Recipient of multiple awards and accolades for her contributions to journalism and technology leadership.
Notable Speeches
I Am Not Supposed To Be Here, TEDxWanChaiWomen
Adam Cheyer
Known for creating Siri, Adam Cheyer is a prominent innovator in AI and voice technology. As a key player in the development of voice-driven AI, Cheyer’s work has shaped the way millions of people interact with their devices, transforming voice recognition from a futuristic concept into an everyday tool.
After Siri, Cheyer continued to push the boundaries of AI technology through his work with Viv Labs, a startup focused on creating the next generation of intelligent assistants, which was later acquired by Samsung.
With a deep background in computer science, Cheyer has long been at the forefront of AI and human-computer interaction. He has held leadership roles in a variety of tech companies, including SRI International, where he was a founding member of the AI Center.
His contributions have not only advanced voice recognition technology, but have also paved the way for new applications in natural language processing and machine learning. His vision for AI goes beyond convenience—he strives to create systems that augment human capabilities and enhance problem-solving in innovative ways.
Cheyer is also a prolific speaker and advisor, frequently sharing his insights on the future of AI at global conferences.His influence extends across industries, from technology and finance to healthcare and education, as organisations look to integrate AI into their operations.
Through his ventures and thought leadership, Cheyer continues to be a driving force in the development of intelligent systems that will shape the future of human-technology interaction.
Notable Achievements
- Co-founder of Siri, the virtual assistant acquired by Apple and integrated into iPhones.
- Co-founder of Viv Labs, a startup developing advanced AI, later acquired by Samsung.
- Founding member of the AI Center at SRI International.
- Key contributor to advancements in voice recognition, natural language processing, and AI.
- Prolific speaker and advisor on AI and the future of human-computer interaction.
- Leader in creating technologies that enhance human capabilities through AI.
Notable Speeches
Lessons From Siri, TEDxGunnHighSchool
Michelle K. Lee
Michelle Li is the founder of Clever Carbon, a platform designed to make understanding carbon footprints engaging and accessible. Her career began in Silicon Valley, where she worked with leading tech companies such as Jawbone, Salesforce, and DocuSign.
Through Clever Carbon, Li aims to empower individuals to measure their carbon footprint, believing that what gets measured, gets changed, helping both individuals and organisations make informed, sustainable decisions.
Li emphasises the urgent need to reduce our environmental impact, not just in terms of carbon, but also water and waste, to create a thriving planet. She believes that widespread carbon literacy is essential to accelerating impactful climate solutions.
Dedicated to amplifying the voices of women in climate action, Li also founded Women and Climate, a non-profit organisation that drives climate engagement among women professionals.
The organisation has held over 30 in-person events globally, including notable gatherings at NYC Climate Week and COP27. In 2023, Li launched the Carbon Newbie Summit at New York Climate Week, providing professionals and newcomers a platform to learn about carbon issues.
Li is a sought-after speaker, having presented at TEDx, SXSW, Bloomberg, and COP28, and is a contributor to the United Nations. She also advises on climate initiatives, serving as a Technical Committee Advisor for Oman Climate Week and an advisor to the Blue Standard, which empowers businesses to take action for the planet. She facilitates important conversations on sustainability, leveraging her deep expertise in carbon-related topics to empower businesses to take action for the planet.
Originally from Toronto, Li has lived in San Francisco and London, and is now based in New York.
Notable Achievements
- Founder of Clever Carbon & Women and Climate.
- Founded Carbon Newbie Summit.
- Key contributor to the United Nations.
- Hosted several formal events for NYC Climate Week and COP27.
- She has worked with big names in tech such as Jawbone, Salesforce, and DocuSign.
- TEDx, SXSW, Bloomberg, and COP28 speaker on the topic of carbon literacy.
- Technical Committee Advisor for Oman Climate Week and Advisor to the Blue Standard.
Notable Speeches
How Domino’s Pizza Used AI to Revolutionise Their Customer Experience | Michelle K. Lee
Jamie Laing
Jamie Laing is a well-known British entrepreneur, television personality, and podcaster, best recognised for his role in the popular reality TV series Made in Chelsea. Beyond his television career, Laing has built a successful business empire, particularly through his confectionery company, Candy Kittens.
Launched in 2012, the gourmet sweet brand has grown into a popular and thriving venture, offering vegan, sustainably sourced sweets that appeal to a broad audience.
Through his leadership, Candy Kittens has expanded its presence across the UK and internationally, earning Laing recognition as a savvy entrepreneur with a flair for building a fun and ethical brand.
In addition to his business ventures, Laing has become a sought-after public figure and speaker, leveraging his television fame and charismatic personality to explore various media platforms. His success extends to the world of podcasting, where he co-hosts Private Parts, a popular show that blends humour with candid conversations about life, fame, and relationships.
Laing’s ability to engage audiences with his witty, down-to-earth style has made him a favourite in both the entertainment and business worlds.
Laing is also passionate about mental health advocacy and often speaks about his own challenges with anxiety, using his platform to raise awareness and reduce stigma. His journey from reality TV star to entrepreneur, media host, and mental health advocate showcases his versatility and influence across multiple industries.
With a strong following and a growing list of ventures, Jamie Laing continues to make a significant impact both on-screen and off.
Notable Achievements
- Founder of Candy Kittens, a successful vegan, gourmet sweet brand.
- Star of Made in Chelsea, a popular UK reality TV show.
- Co-host of Private Parts, a highly successful podcast blending humour and candid conversations.
- Recognised advocate for mental health awareness, frequently discussing his personal experiences with anxiety.
- Successful entrepreneur with a focus on creating fun, ethical, and sustainable products.
- Sought-after speaker and media personality with a strong influence in both business and entertainment.
Notable Speeches
Jamie Laing on building an £8m+ business, stinky feet and the problem with MIC | UNFILTERED
Todd Buchholz
Todd Buchholz is a highly respected economist, author, and keynote speaker, known for his ability to make complex economic issues accessible and engaging.
As a former White House Director of Economic Policy under President George H.W. Bush, Buchholz has been at the forefront of shaping economic policy on a national level. He is also a former managing director of the prestigious Tiger Management hedge fund, where he further honed his expertise in global finance and investment strategy.
With his deep knowledge of economics, markets, and global trends, Buchholz frequently advises businesses, governments, and financial institutions on how to navigate economic challenges and capitalise on opportunities.
Beyond his work in policy and finance, Buchholz is a best-selling author of several books on economics and leadership, including New Ideas from Dead Economists, Rush: Why You Need and Love the Rat Race, and The Price of Prosperity.
His writing combines rigorous economic analysis with sharp insights into human behaviour, culture, and history, making his books popular among both professionals and general readers alike. His ability to blend economics with storytelling has also made him a sought-after commentator, appearing on major networks like CNBC, BBC, and NPR.
As a keynote speaker, Buchholz captivates audiences with his dynamic and engaging style, using humour, anecdotes, and real-world examples to discuss global economic trends, financial markets, and business strategy.
He is a frequent speaker at conferences, corporate events, and universities around the world, where he shares his insights on the future of the global economy, leadership, and innovation. His broad expertise and charismatic presence make him a standout in the world of economics and public speaking.
Notable Achievements
- Former White House Director of Economic Policy under President George H.W. Bush.
- Managing Director at Tiger Management hedge fund.
- Best-selling author of books, including New Ideas from Dead Economists and Rush: Why You Need and Love the Rat Race.
- Renowned keynote speaker on global economic trends, financial markets, and leadership.
- Frequent commentator on major networks such as CNBC, BBC, and NPR.
- Advisor to businesses, governments, and financial institutions on navigating economic challenges and opportunities.
Notable Speeches
Todd G. Buchholz Speaker | The Link between Wall Street and Global Financial Capitals | Contact Agent
Sebastian Thrun
Sebastian Thrun is a renowned computer scientist, entrepreneur, and educator, recognised for his pioneering contributions to artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous vehicles, and online education.
As the founder of Udacity, a leading online learning platform offering Nanodegree programs in technology, Thrun has revolutionised education by making high-quality tech training accessible to people around the world.
Prior to founding Udacity, Thrun made headlines as the leader of the Stanford team that built the autonomous vehicle “Stanley,” which won the 2005 DARPA Grand Challenge, marking a significant milestone in self-driving car technology. His groundbreaking work in AI and robotics has helped shape the future of autonomous systems.
Thrun’s career spans academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. He served as a professor at Stanford University, where he led research in robotics and AI. He also founded Google X, the company’s secretive research lab, where he led the development of Google’s self-driving car project and other innovative technologies such as Google Glass.
His visionary work at the intersection of AI, technology, and entrepreneurship has earned him numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the world’s leading minds in AI and innovation.
In addition to his technological achievements, Thrun is passionate about education and has dedicated much of his career to reshaping how people learn.
Since its establishment in 2012, Thrun’s Udacity has gained recognition for its focus on providing real-world, project-based learning in fields like AI, machine learning, and autonomous systems. Thrun’s mission to democratise education has empowered thousands of students to gain the skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Notable Achievements
- Founder of Udacity, a leading online learning platform specialising in technology and AI education.
- Leader of the Stanford team that built “Stanley,” the winning autonomous vehicle in the 2005 DARPA Grand Challenge.
- Founder of Google X, where he led projects such as Google’s self-driving car initiative and Google Glass.
- Former professor at Stanford University, specialising in robotics and artificial intelligence.
- Key contributor to advancements in AI, machine learning, and autonomous vehicles.
- Visionary in reshaping education through online platforms, making high-tech skills accessible globally.
Notable Speeches
Sebastian Thrun Keynote – Bay Area Robotics Symposium 2023
Sheena Iyengar
Sheena Iyengar is a world-renowned expert in the field of choice, decision-making, and behavioural psychology. Growing up as a blind Indian American and the daughter of immigrants in New York City, Sheena Iyengar was inspired to deeply explore the concept of choice—not only for herself, but for everyone around her.
As a professor at Columbia Business School, Iyengar has dedicated her career to understanding how individuals and organisations make choices in complex environments.
Her innovative research on choice has questioned traditional beliefs and uncovered unexpected insights about how people perceive options and make decisions, both personally and professionally.
Her book, The Art of Choosing, explores the science behind human decision-making and has achieved critical acclaim. Additionally, multiple translations have made her insights in The Art of Choosing accessible to a global audience.
Iyengar’s research is particularly notable for its real-world applications, ranging from consumer behaviour to leadership and innovation. One of her most famous studies, the “jam study,” demonstrated that while people often believe more choices are better, an excess of options can actually lead to decision paralysis and decreased satisfaction.
This revelation has had significant implications for business strategies, marketing, and product development, influencing how companies structure their offerings and how leaders manage decision-making processes within organisations.
Beyond her academic achievements, Iyengar is a sought-after keynote speaker, consultant, and thought leader. She regularly advises Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and government agencies on how to improve decision-making, enhance innovation, and foster more effective leadership through a deeper understanding of choice.
Iyengar’s work continues to push the boundaries of behavioural science, helping individuals and organisations navigate the complexities of modern life with greater clarity and purpose.
Notable Achievements
- Professor at Columbia Business School, specialising in decision-making, choice, and leadership.
- Author of The Art of Choosing, a widely acclaimed book on the science of choice and decision-making.
- Conducted the famous “jam study,” revealing the paradox of choice and its impact on consumer behaviour.
- Sought-after keynote speaker and consultant, advising Fortune 500 companies on improving decision-making processes.
- Recipient of several awards for her contributions to behavioural science and psychology.
- Recognised for her innovative research in leadership, innovation, and consumer behaviour.
Notable Speeches
The Art of Choosing | Sheena Iyengar | TED
Chester Elton
Chester Elton is a globally recognised expert in leadership, organisational culture, and employee engagement. As a best-selling author and sought-after keynote speaker, Elton has made a significant impact on how businesses foster positive, productive work environments.
He is best known for co-authoring several influential books, including The Carrot Principle, All In, and The Best Team Wins, which focus on the power of recognition, teamwork, and leadership to drive results. His work emphasises how effective recognition and appreciation can boost employee morale, engagement, and performance, making him a key thought leader in corporate leadership and human resources.
With decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, Elton’s practical insights on how to build engaged, high-performing teams have resonated with leaders across industries.
Top global brands, such as American Express, Procter & Gamble, and Starbucks, helping these companies develop stronger workplace cultures through strategic recognition and leadership initiatives have sought his expertise.
Elton’s research-backed strategies focus on how simple acts of gratitude and acknowledgement can transform organisations, leading to higher retention rates, better teamwork, and improved bottom-line results.
Elton is also a charismatic and engaging speaker, frequently delivering keynote addresses at global leadership conferences, company retreats, and HR summits. His presentations combine humour, storytelling, and actionable advice, leaving audiences inspired and equipped to make positive changes within their organisations.
Through his books, speeches, and consulting work, Chester Elton continues to be a leading voice in shaping how companies create more engaging, people-focused workplaces.
Notable Achievements
- Best-selling co-author of The Carrot Principle, All In, and The Best Team Wins, focusing on leadership, recognition, and team dynamics.
- Recognised expert in employee engagement, leadership, and organisational culture.
- Sought-after consultant and advisor to Fortune 500 companies, including American Express, Procter & Gamble, and Starbucks.
- Frequent keynote speaker at leadership conferences, HR summits, and corporate events worldwide.
- Advocate for using recognition and gratitude to drive employee engagement and improve organisational performance.
- Recipient of multiple awards for his contributions to leadership and workplace culture development.
Notable Speeches
Managing With Carrots | Chester Elton | TEDxFordhamUniversity
Rory Stewart
Rory Stewart is a British politician, diplomat, author, and academic renowned for his contributions to international policy, humanitarian work, and public service.
As a former Member of Parliament, Stewart served in various capacities, including as the UK Secretary of State for International Development, where he focused on foreign aid, poverty alleviation, and global security issues.
His career in diplomacy and public service also includes roles as the Governor of two provinces in Iraq following the 2003 invasion and as a diplomat in the British Foreign Office, where he worked on critical international challenges, including the rebuilding of war-torn regions.
A deep commitment to global issues, particularly in conflict and post-conflict zones marks Stewart’s work. His widely acclaimed book, The Places in Between, chronicles his journey walking across Afghanistan, offering profound insights into the region’s culture, politics, and challenges.
This and his other works, such as Occupational Hazards, highlight Stewart’s unique blend of on-the-ground experience and policy expertise. Stewart’s humanitarian efforts are further exemplified through his role as CEO of the GiveDirectly charity, where he leads initiatives aimed at addressing global poverty through direct cash transfers to the poorest communities.
In addition to his political and humanitarian work, Stewart is a highly respected public speaker and commentator. He regularly shares his insights on international relations, leadership, and conflict resolution at global forums, universities, and media outlets.
With his deep knowledge of foreign affairs and experience in both politics and diplomacy, Stewart has become a powerful advocate for more thoughtful, human-centred approaches to development and foreign policy.
Notable Achievements
- Former UK Secretary of State for International Development, focusing on global aid and poverty reduction.
- Served as Governor of two Iraqi provinces and as a diplomat for the British Foreign Office, specialising in post-conflict reconstruction.
- Best-selling author of The Places in Between and Occupational Hazards, offering insights into Afghanistan, Iraq, and international politics.
- CEO of GiveDirectly, a charity focused on alleviating poverty through direct cash transfers.
- Frequent public speaker and commentator on international relations, conflict resolution, and humanitarian issues.
- Advocate for more human-centred, effective approaches to global development and foreign policy.
Notable Speeches
Rory Stewart OBE: “Failed States – and How Not to Fix Them”
Claudia Zeisberger
Claudia Zeisberger is a renowned professor, author, and thought leader in the fields of private equity, venture capital, and innovation. She is best known for her role as a Senior Affiliate Professor of Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise at INSEAD, one of the world’s leading business schools.
As the founder of INSEAD’s Global Private Equity Initiative (GPEI), Zeisberger has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academia and industry, offering insights into the dynamics of private equity and venture capital markets, particularly in emerging economies.
Zeisberger’s work spans multiple facets of the investment landscape, from advising companies on strategic growth to educating future business leaders on the intricacies of private equity and innovation. She authored Mastering Private Equity and Private Equity in Action, both of which industry professionals acclaim for their comprehensive analysis and practical case studies.
Through her research and teaching, Zeisberger has emphasised the importance of strategic value creation, operational improvement, and responsible investing, guiding organisations on how to navigate the complexities of global markets.
In addition to her academic work, Claudia Zeisberger is a sought-after speaker and advisor, frequently appearing at international conferences and industry events. She shares her deep knowledge on topics ranging from investment strategies and market trends to the role of private capital in fostering innovation and growth.
Companies, investors, and policymakers value her insights, making her a significant voice in the global private equity and venture capital community. As such, she is a perfect speaker for corporate events in the UK.
Notable Achievements
- Senior Affiliate Professor of Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise at INSEAD.
- Founder of the Global Private Equity Initiative (GPEI) at INSEAD.
- Author of Mastering Private Equity and Private Equity in Action, leading books on private equity and venture capital.
- Advisor to companies, investors, and institutions on private capital strategies and market trends.
- Sought-after keynote speaker at global conferences on private equity, venture capital, and innovation.
- Recognised thought leader on investment strategies, value creation, and responsible investing in emerging markets.
Notable Speeches
Start Up Funding for Entrepreneurs | Claudia Zeisberger
How to Book a Motivational Speaker for Your Event
To book a speaker with CWG Speakers, you can follow these steps:
- Browse the Speaker Catalogue: Visit the CWG Speakers website and browse their catalogue of available speakers. You can search by name, industry, expertise, or event type to find the right match for your event.
- Submit an Inquiry: Once you’ve found a speaker you’re interested in, go to the speaker’s profile page. Fill out the inquiry form with relevant details, including the name of the speaker, the type of event you’re hosting, event date(s), location, and any specific requests or topics you’d like the speaker to cover.
- Consult with a CWG Representative: After submitting your inquiry, a representative from CWG Speakers will contact you to discuss your event in more detail. They may offer additional speaker suggestions based on your event needs and help you refine your selection to ensure the speaker aligns with your goals.
- Receive a Proposal: CWG Speakers will provide you with a proposal that includes the speaker’s fee, availability, and the terms for the booking. The proposal will also cover logistics like travel, accommodation, and technical requirements for the speaker’s presentation.
- Confirm the Booking: Once you agree to the proposal, you can confirm the booking by signing a contract and making any required payments or deposits. CWG Speakers will work with you to finalise all the arrangements for the speaker’s participation, ensuring a smooth experience leading up to your event.
- Coordinate Event Details: Leading up to the event, CWG Speakers will stay in contact to coordinate any last-minute logistics, such as rehearsal times, presentation formats, or special requests from the speaker.
By following these steps, you can book a high-quality keynote speaker through CWG Speakers for your corporate or special event.
Final Word
Choosing the right keynote speaker for your corporate event in the UK can make a lasting impact on your audience, inspiring and motivating them in ways that resonate long after the event has ended.
Whether you’re seeking someone to spark innovation, provide leadership insights, or offer expertise on emerging trends, the best speakers bring not only their knowledge but also their ability to engage, challenge, and energise attendees.
By carefully selecting a speaker who aligns with your event goals and audience needs, you can create a memorable and impactful experience that drives positive change and growth within your organisation.
At CWG Speakers, we make finding key speakers for your company conference, year end awards, or any other event easy. Just fill out an inquiry form or reach out for more information.
