Bob Bevan

Bob Bevan is one of Britain’s most respected after-dinner speakers and comedians, renowned for his remarkable ability to entertain audiences ranging from intimate business gatherings to major charity and sporting events. For more than five decades, he has built a reputation for combining sharp wit, impeccable timing and a deep understanding of his audience, making him one of the most sought-after personalities on the speaking circuit. Best known for his outstanding contribution to after-dinner entertainment and charitable fundraising, Bob has performed for royalty, sporting legends, business leaders and thousands of corporate guests. His unique blend of humour, professionalism and experience is why organisations continue to hire him as a keynote speaker for conferences, awards ceremonies and special events.

Bob’s speaking career began in 1967 when he delivered his first official after-dinner speech, marking the start of a lifelong journey in entertainment. Over the following years, he developed his craft on the dinner circuit, becoming known for his natural storytelling and audience engagement. His breakthrough came when he appeared at the Footballer of the Year Dinner, a performance that encouraged him to turn fully professional in 1980 as a comedian and speaker. His popularity continued to grow, and in 1986, he launched his first international comedy tour of Australia, expanding his reputation beyond the United Kingdom. By the end of the century, he had become a familiar figure at major sporting and corporate occasions, including his record-setting appearances at the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year Awards. He further demonstrated his appeal as a large-scale host when he performed before 5,000 people at the Royal Albert Hall Tribute Band Concert.

Throughout his career, Bob has received significant recognition for both his entertainment achievements and charitable contributions. His dedication to fundraising through after-dinner speaking was acknowledged when he was awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for charitable services. This honour reflected the considerable impact he has made through countless events supporting worthy causes. His reputation has also led to regular appearances at prestigious sporting, corporate and charitable functions where his ability to connect with audiences of all backgrounds continues to make him a popular choice.

Bob’s standing within British sport and entertainment is reflected in the leadership positions he has held. He became the first entertainer ever elected President of Kent County Cricket Club and later served as President of the National Sporting Club. His contribution to the entertainment industry was further recognised when he was inducted as the King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats, one of Britain’s most distinguished entertainment charities. These achievements demonstrate the respect he commands across multiple sectors. With decades of experience, proven success before audiences of every size and a unique ability to inspire laughter while delivering memorable messages, Bob remains an exceptional keynote speaker who brings credibility, warmth and world class entertainment to every event.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Bob Bevan’s remarkable career:

  • 2016 – Inducted as the King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats entertainment charity
  • 2014 – Appointed as the President of the National Sporting Club
  • 2013 – Elected as the first entertainer to serve as the President of Kent County Cricket Club
  • 2004 – Awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for his charitable services through after-dinner speaking
  • 2001 – Performed as a headline host in front of 5,000 people at the Royal Albert Hall Tribute Band Concert
  • 1999 – Made his record-setting appearances at the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year Awards
  • 1986 – Launched his first international comedy tour of Australia
  • 1980 – Turned fully professional as a comedian and speaker following his breakthrough performance at the Footballer of the Year Dinner
  • 1967 – Delivered his official debut after-dinner speech, initiating his long-standing entertainment circuit career