Rory Sutherland

Vice-Chairman Of Ogilvy UK, Co-Founder Of OgilvyChange & Author of ‘Alchemy: The Surprising Power of Ideas That Don’t Make Sense’

Rory Sutherland’s Biography:

Rory Sutherland is one of the world’s most influential marketing thinkers, renowned for his groundbreaking insights into consumer psychology, behavioural economics and decision-making. As Vice-Chairman and Co-Founder of OgilvyChange, Rory pioneered the application of behavioural science to advertising, helping organisations understand the hidden forces that shape customer behaviour. Best known for his “butterfly effect” approach to consumer behaviour, he challenges conventional business thinking by demonstrating how small, seemingly insignificant changes can produce extraordinary results. A sought-after keynote speaker, Rory is celebrated for his ability to transform complex psychological concepts into practical strategies for business growth, innovation and marketing success.

Rory joined Ogilvy in 1988 as a graduate trainee and steadily rose through the ranks to become one of the advertising industry’s most respected figures. Over more than two decades, he worked as a Copywriter and Creative Director, contributing to award-winning campaigns and helping shape the agency’s reputation for creative excellence. His passion for understanding human behaviour led him to establish OgilvyChange, a pioneering behavioural science practice that applies psychological insights to marketing, public policy and business strategy. Alongside his work at Ogilvy, Rory has served as President of the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising and chaired the Direct Jury at Cannes.

An accomplished author and thought leader, Rory has written several influential books, including ‘Alchemy: The Surprising Power of Ideas That Don’t Make Sense’, ‘Alchemy: The Dark Art and Curious Science of Creating Magic in Brands, Business, and Life’, ‘Rory Sutherland: The Wiki Man’ and ‘Transport For Humans: Are We Nearly There Yet?‘ Through his writing, he explores the intersection of psychology, innovation and commercial success, earning recognition as one of the foremost voices in behavioural economics and modern marketing.

Beyond advertising, Rory is admired for his unconventional thinking and ability to challenge established assumptions. His engaging communication style, combined with decades of experience advising global brands, enables him to inspire audiences to think differently about innovation, value creation and human behaviour. Whether addressing business leaders, marketers or entrepreneurs, Rory delivers thought-provoking insights that encourage creative problem-solving and more effective decision-making.

Why Hire Rory Sutherland?

Rory is hired to help organisations unlock new ways of thinking about marketing, innovation and consumer behaviour. Drawing on decades of experience at the forefront of advertising and behavioural science, he demonstrates how psychological insights can create competitive advantage and drive business growth. His globally acclaimed TED Talks, including ‘Perspective is Everything’ and ‘Sweat the Small Stuff’, have attracted millions of views and showcase his ability to make complex ideas accessible and entertaining. Audiences leave with practical tools for improving decision-making, creativity and commercial performance.

Rory Sutherland’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Rory Sutherland’s remarkable career:

• 2023 – Continued promoting the principles of behavioural science through international keynote speaking engagements and industry events.
• 2019 – Published ‘Alchemy: The Surprising Power of Ideas That Don’t Make Sense’, which became a highly influential business and marketing book.
• 2012 – Delivered the TED Talk ‘Perspective is Everything’, exploring how perception shapes value and decision-making.
• 2010 – Presented the TED Talk ‘Sweat the Small Stuff’, which went on to attract millions of views worldwide.
• 2009 – Became a prominent advocate for applying behavioural economics principles to marketing and business strategy.
• 2007 – Served as President of the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising, representing the UK advertising industry.
• 2000 – Chaired the Direct Jury at Cannes, helping recognise excellence in global advertising creativity.
• 1988 – Joined Ogilvy as a graduate trainee, beginning a distinguished career that would lead to senior leadership and the co-founding of OgilvyChange.