Co-Founder of Lastminute.com, Acclaimed Entrepreneur, Public Servant & Co-Founder of Lucky Voice
Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s Biography:
Baroness Martha Lane Fox is one of the United Kingdom’s most influential technology entrepreneurs, public servants and advocates for digital inclusion. Best known as the co-founder of Lastminute.com, Martha helped build one of Europe’s most successful online travel businesses during the early days of the internet revolution, taking the company public in 2000. Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, she has become a leading voice on the role of technology in society, championing digital transformation across business, government and education. Her unique combination of commercial success, public service and social impact makes her a highly sought-after keynote speaker on innovation, leadership and the future of technology.
Martha began her career by co-founding Lastminute.com in 1998, transforming the way consumers booked travel and leisure experiences online. Following her success with the company, she remained involved as a non-executive director after stepping down as Managing Director in 2003. She went on to co-found Lucky Voice, the innovative karaoke business that disrupted the entertainment sector. Alongside her entrepreneurial ventures, Martha held non-executive roles with organisations including Marks & Spencer, MyDeco.com and the Women’s Prize for Fiction. In 2010, she established the Digital Public Services Unit within the Cabinet Office and later joined the Government’s Efficiency and Reform Board, helping to modernise public services through technology.
Her contributions have been recognised through numerous honours and appointments. Martha was appointed the UK’s Digital Champion, helping to drive the development of digital government services, including GOV.UK. She was awarded a CBE in 2013 for services to the digital economy and charity and was elevated to the House of Lords as Baroness Lane-Fox of Soho, becoming the youngest female life peer at the time. She has also served as Chancellor of The Open University, President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Distinguished Fellow of the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.
Alongside her business and public sector work, Martha is a passionate advocate for social change. Her commitment to digital inclusion led to the launch of the Networked Nation Manifesto, while her charitable work includes serving as a trustee of Reprieve and patron of CAMFED. Today, she continues to serve as a crossbench peer and co-chair of the Government Technology Innovation Panel, helping to shape the future of technology, public services and artificial intelligence across the UK.
Why Hire Baroness Martha Lane Fox?
Baroness Martha Lane Fox delivers compelling insights into digital transformation, innovation, entrepreneurship and the future of technology. Drawing on her experience building one of Europe’s pioneering internet businesses and shaping national digital policy, she offers audiences a rare perspective on how technology can drive growth, improve public services and create social impact. Martha is also known for her thought-provoking TED Talk, ‘The Digital World is Having a Mid-Life Crisis’, in which she explores the responsibilities that accompany technological progress and the need for a more inclusive digital future. Combining strategic vision with practical experience, she helps audiences understand emerging trends, navigate change and harness technology for meaningful impact.
Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s remarkable career:
- 2024 – Serves as Co-chair of the Government Technology Innovation Panel, helping guide AI adoption and technology reform across UK public services.
- 2023 – Elected an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in recognition of her contribution to technology and innovation.
- 2022 – Became President of the British Chambers of Commerce, representing and supporting businesses across the UK and internationally.
- 2016 – Appointed Distinguished Fellow of the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, recognising her impact on the digital sector.
- 2014 – Appointed Chancellor of The Open University, promoting lifelong learning and educational accessibility.
- 2013 – Created Baroness Lane-Fox of Soho, becoming the youngest female life peer in the House of Lords at the time.
- 2013 – Awarded a CBE for services to the digital economy and charitable causes.
- 2010 – Established the Digital Public Services Unit within the Cabinet Office to accelerate digital transformation in government.
- 2009 – Appointed UK Digital Champion, leading initiatives to increase digital participation and improve government digital services.
- 2006 – Co-founded Lucky Voice, creating a pioneering entertainment brand that transformed the UK karaoke industry
Videos
Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Martha was really impressive and a number of our board approached her afterwards for a further conversation and to thank her. Our Chairman felt it was one of the best conversations we had ever hosted at our board dinners.” – James, Mastercard
Speaking Topics
Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s Official Keynote Topics:
- The future of digital inclusion and public services
- Innovation and technology in the digital economy
- Promoting female leadership and equality in business
- Digital transformation in government and public services
- The importance of responsible technology and ethics
- Entrepreneurship and its role in shaping modern economies
- Leveraging technology to address global challenges and inequalities
- Education and its role in driving technological innovation
How Much Does Baroness Martha Lane Fox Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Baroness Martha Lane Fox?
Baroness Martha Lane Fox’s speaking fees typically reflect her 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.