AI Consultant, Member of the Board of Directors for Genesis Systems & Author of New York Times Bestseller ‘Rise of the Robots’
Martin Ford’s Biography:
Martin Ford is an internationally renowned futurist, AI consultant and bestselling author recognised for his influential insights into artificial intelligence, robotics and the future of work. Best known for his New York Times bestselling book Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of Mass Unemployment, Martin has become one of the world’s leading voices on how emerging technologies will reshape business, employment and society. His expertise has led to discussions with senior policymakers, including conversations with the White House Chief of Staff regarding the economic impact of AI and robotics. As a speaker, Martin is highly sought after for his ability to explain complex technological shifts in a commercially relevant and accessible way.
After earning a BSE in Computer Engineering from the University of Michigan, Martin completed an MBA at the UCLA Anderson School of Management in 1991 before founding a Silicon Valley software development firm. His background in both engineering and business enabled him to bridge the gap between technological innovation and economic strategy. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a leading commentator on automation, AI and workforce transformation. Since 2017, Martin has served on the Board of Directors for Genesis Systems and has also acted as an expert for Société Générale’s Rise of the Robots equity index. Alongside his consultancy and advisory work, he regularly speaks at major international conferences and industry events.
Martin is the author of several acclaimed books, including The Lights in the Tunnel, Architects of Intelligence: The Truth About AI From the People Building It and Rule of the Robots: How Artificial Intelligence Will Transform Everything. In 2015, he won the prestigious Financial Times/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award. His writing and commentary have featured in globally respected publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Fortune, The Financial Times and Harvard Business Review.
Beyond publishing, Martin has become widely recognised through documentaries and television features including The Future of Work and Death, Automation Nation, Notes on the Way Forward, How to Build a Human and The Truth About Killer Robots. His TED Talk, How We’ll Earn Money in a Future Without Jobs, has achieved more than four million views, further cementing his reputation as a leading authority on technological disruption. Having spoken at events including the TED Conference, the Milken Institute Global Conference, the Festival of Dangerous Ideas and the St. Gallen Symposium, Martin continues to help organisations understand the opportunities and risks presented by artificial intelligence.
Why Hire Martin Ford?
Martin Ford is hired as a speaker for his exceptional ability to translate the complexities of artificial intelligence, automation and robotics into practical business insight. Combining technical expertise with economic analysis, he helps audiences understand how emerging technologies will transform industries, employment and society. Martin’s TED Talk, How We’ll Earn Money in a Future Without Jobs, has attracted millions of viewers worldwide, while his appearances at globally respected forums such as TED, the Milken Institute Global Conference and the St. Gallen Symposium demonstrate his authority as a futurist speaker trusted by corporate leaders, policymakers and innovators alike.
Martin Ford’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Martin Ford’s remarkable career:
- 2025 – Expanded his influence as a leading futurist speaker through keynote appearances discussing generative AI and workforce transformation.
- 2018 – Published ‘Architects of Intelligence: The Truth About AI From the People Building It’, featuring interviews with leading AI pioneers.
- 2017 – Joined the Board of Directors for Genesis Systems, contributing expertise in artificial intelligence and future technologies.
- 2015 – Won the Financial Times/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award for ‘Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of Mass Unemployment’.
- 2015 – Released the New York Times bestselling book ‘Rise of the Robots’, examining the economic impact of automation and AI.
- 2015 – Delivered his acclaimed TED Talk ‘How We’ll Earn Money in a Future Without Jobs’, later surpassing four million views.
- 2009 – Published ‘The Lights in the Tunnel’, an early exploration of automation and technological unemployment.
- 1991 – Completed an MBA at the UCLA Anderson School of Management, strengthening his expertise in business and technology strategy.
- Early Career – Founded a Silicon Valley software development firm after earning a BSE in Computer Engineering from the University of Michigan.
Videos
Martin Ford’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Martin Ford delivered an exceptional keynote that combined deep technical expertise with clear commercial insight. His ability to explain the future impact of artificial intelligence, automation and robotics in a way that was engaging, accessible and thought provoking left a lasting impression on our audience. Martin’s presentation was both intellectually rigorous and highly relevant to today’s business challenges, prompting valuable discussions long after the event had ended. Professional, insightful and incredibly forward thinking, Martin is a standout speaker for any organisation looking to better understand the future of work and emerging technology.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Martin Ford’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Future of Work
- Technology
- Futurism
How Much Does Martin Ford Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Martin Ford?
Martin Ford’s speaking fees typically reflect his exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.