Former Presenter of BBC World News ‘Asia Today’, Former Host of ‘Panorama’
Nisha Pillai’s Biography:
Nisha Pillai is an accomplished journalist, broadcaster, and moderator, best known for her 25-year career as a presenter and correspondent with the BBC. Renowned for her intelligent interviewing style and calm authority, she became one of the most recognisable faces on BBC World News, anchoring flagship programmes such as Asia Today, World News Today, and Impact. She also hosted the long-running investigative series Panorama, where her work earned her a Royal Television Society Award for outstanding journalism. With a career spanning major global events and complex political, economic, and social issues, Nisha has earned a reputation as a trusted and insightful voice in international broadcasting.
A graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science, where she earned a BSc in Economics, Nisha began her journalism career at BBC Television in 1990 as an investigative reporter. Her analytical background and passion for truth made her a natural storyteller capable of bringing clarity to complex subjects. By 1996, she had moved into presenting on BBC World News, where she reported breaking stories and conducted high-profile interviews with world leaders, economists, and business executives. Her coverage of pivotal moments such as global financial crises, climate debates, and geopolitical shifts has made her a respected commentator on international affairs.
Today, Nisha draws on her vast media experience as a professional moderator and speaker, leading global conferences and high-level panels across industries. Her key areas of expertise include the energy transition and decarbonisation, global economics, finance, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. Combining her deep subject knowledge with journalistic precision, Nisha ensures that every discussion she leads is engaging, balanced, and intellectually stimulating.
Why Hire Nisha Pillai?
Nisha Pillai is a world-class moderator and communicator, celebrated for her ability to distil complex topics into clear, engaging dialogue. Having spent over two decades interviewing political and business leaders on BBC World News and Panorama, she brings journalistic rigour, presence, and professionalism to every event. Event organisers value her poise, quick thinking, and ability to connect with diverse audiences, making her a trusted choice for international conferences, summits, and corporate gatherings seeking meaningful discussion and expert moderation.
Nisha Pillai’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Nisha Pillai’s inspirational career in media, television and technology:
- 2025 – Spoke at the Temenos Community Forum as the Event MC.
- 2008 – Transitioned to public speaking, delivering lively and engaging keynotes on the topics at hand.
- 1996 – Became News Presenter at BBC World News, anchoring global programmes including Asia Today, World News Today, and Impact
- 1991 – Received a Royal Television Society Award for excellence in investigative reporting on BBC’s Panorama
- 1990 – Began career as an Investigative Reporter at BBC Television, covering international current affairs and economics
Videos
Nisha Pillai’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“I would just like to place on record the impact the speech has had on a fairly “change terrorised” organisation. For many folk it was a wake-up call for the need to re-evaluate…..careers, priorities, life choices. I certainly had ambitions and goals for the event but how much more rewarding if we were able to provoke a deeper reaction that could be life changing. Thanks Nisha.” – Nigel, Director IT Projects, EDF Energy
“You were largely responsible for the successful tempo and tone of our annual conference and I wish to thank you warmly for your work. When the meeting flagged, you brought it to life with humor, wit or a pointed remark. When the meeting threatened to get out of hand, you calmed things down and pushed the discussion along in the right direction.” – Kofi, former UN secretary general, & head of The Global Humanitarian Forum
“Your professionalism, dedication and drive both before, during and after the event helped to make it an overwhelming success” – Omar, United Nations Development Programme
“An outstanding economics reporter on The Money Programme, Nisha had the rare combination of intellectual ability, curiosity and tenacity that took her to the heart of often complex issues. And the ability to translate her stories into straightforward narratives accessible to any viewer.” – David, Editor, The Money Programme
Topics
Nisha Pillai’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Global Economics
- Finance
- AI and Digitalisation
- The Energy Transition and Decarbonisation
How Much Does Nisha Pillai Cost To Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Nisha Pillai?
The cost of hiring Nisha Pillai depends on factors such as your event requirements, whether it’s in-person or virtual, and any travel or accommodation needs. To receive an accurate quote, contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.