Choosing the best AI keynote speakers to hire in the UK for your event is not straightforward. Many speakers make similar promises, which makes it difficult to judge real expertise or audience impact. This guide draws on verified booking insights and direct client feedback, alongside practical considerations such as sector fit, delivery style and measurable outcomes, to help business leaders, HR teams and event planners make informed, confident decisions.
Why an AI Speaker is Beneficial for Your Organisation
AI is now a commercial capability, not a side topic. Research shows sustained enterprise investment and widening use cases, from productivity to governance. The practical value of an AI keynote is speed: aligning leaders on what matters, what to prioritise, and what to stop. For example, a well-structured keynote on AI governance can move an organisation from ad hoc experimentation to an agreed approval process for high-risk use cases, reducing delays, rework, and reputational exposure.
Source: McKinsey, Gartner & The AI Speakers Agency
The Best AI Speakers to Hire
The ratings and fit notes below are based on data collected between 2021 and 2026 from 973 vetted events in London and across the UK that hired an artificial intelligence keynote speaker. Ratings reflect aggregated post-event feedback captured by booking teams and clients.
These AI experts are commonly booked for leadership off-sites, HR and workforce programmes, board briefings, industry conferences, and transformation events. See below for our official list of the best AI Speakers to hire.
- Cassie Kozyrkov – Decision intelligence and executive AI adoption (9.6/10)
- Professor Nick Hawes – Oxford robotics and real-world AI systems (9.1/10)
- Mo Gawdat – AI futures, human impact, and responsible progress (9.0/10)
- Dr Laura Gilbert CBE – AI in government and policy-grade delivery (9.4/10)
- Laurence Moroney – Applied AI leadership and engineering reality (9.0/10)
- Didem Un Ates – Enterprise AI strategy and implementation (8.8/10)
- Dr Andrew Ayres MBA – AI governance and enterprise transformation (8.6/10)
- Rahaf Harfoush – AI, creativity, culture, and burnout risk (8.7/10)
- Nina Schick – Generative AI, deepfakes, and information integrity (9.3/10)
- Professor Sana Khareghani – UK AI policy and responsible AI programmes (9.0/10)
- Henry Ajder – Deepfakes, synthetic media, and trust (8.9/10)
- Sophia the Robot – Showpiece AI and robotics experience (8.2/10)
- Professor John Tasioulas – AI ethics, law, and human rights (8.8/10)
- Toju Duke – Responsible AI delivery inside big tech (8.7/10)
- Rachel Botsman – Trust, technology, and organisational behaviour (9.0/10)
- Kay Firth-Butterfield – AI ethics and policy at global scale (9.1/10)
- Professor Shafi Ahmed – AI in healthcare and innovation leadership (8.8/10)
- Matt Clifford – UK AI opportunity and ecosystem building (8.9/10)
- Ray Kurzweil – Future forecasting and long-range AI trajectories (8.5/10)
- Jason Bates – Digital transformation and product-led change (8.4/10)
- Lex Fridman – Deep learning research and long-form AI discourse (8.7/10)
- Dame Professor Wendy Hall – UK AI Council and governance leadership (9.2/10)
- Hannah Fry – Data, systems thinking, and public communication (8.8/10)
- Zack Kass – AI strategy and adoption narrative (8.9/10)
- Richard Foster-Fletcher – AI, future of work, and CX transformation (8.6/10)
- Dr Kate Darling – Robotics and AI ethics (8.7/10)
- Allie Miller – Enterprise AI product and go-to-market (8.8/10)
- Kai-Fu Lee – Global AI leadership and investment view (8.9/10)
- Noelle Russell – Responsible and agentic AI leadership (8.8/10)
- John C. Havens – IEEE ethics frameworks and human-centred AI (8.6/10)
- Yoshua Bengio – Foundational AI research perspective (9.0/10)
- Sarah Armstrong-Smith – AI risk, cyber resilience, crisis leadership (8.7/10)
- Baroness Joanna Shields – AI leadership and internet safety policy (8.8/10)
- Kate Crawford – AI accountability, power, and societal impact (9.0/10)
- Inma Martinez – AI governance, advisory, and innovation (8.5/10)
- Danilo McGarry – AI learning, enterprise implementation, and ROI (8.5/10)
- Jon French – AI in business transformation and commercial leadership (8.4/10)
- Simon Greenman – Platform innovation and applied AI strategy (8.4/10)
- Tiffany St James – Public participation, data programmes, AI leadership (8.6/10)
- Damian Collins OBE – Online safety, regulation, and disinformation (8.3/10)
- Priya Lakhani OBE – AI in education, ethics, and growth leadership (8.7/10)
- Dr Paul Dongha – Banking AI strategy and ethics governance (8.4/10)
- Katie King – AI in business, marketing, and adoption (8.5/10)
- Daniel Hulme – Enterprise AI strategy and applied innovation (8.9/10)
1) Cassie Kozyrkov (9.6/10)
Cassie Kozyrkov is Google’s first Chief Decision Scientist and a pioneer of decision intelligence. A former Technical Director of AI and Data at Google, she has advised senior leaders on turning AI into better decisions and measurable outcomes. Cassie serves on the Innovation Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and has been recognised as a leading AI communicator, including as a top writer on Medium.
Official Testimonial for Cassie Kozyrkov:
“Cassie was very professional and great to work with on all details of her presentation. I appreciated how promptly we heard responses and feedback on travel and presentation details, and she truly is an expert in all things AI! Loved her personality and kindness. She’s great to work with!” – Tiffany, Senior Event Marketing Manager, Accelerate24
2) Professor Nick Hawes (9.1/10)
Professor Nick Hawes is Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at the University of Oxford, a Fellow at Pembroke College, and Director of the Oxford Robotics Institute. With a doctorate from MIT’s Media Lab, Nick brings research depth and real-world systems thinking to leadership audiences. He has delivered major keynote lectures, including the Lord Kelvin Award Lecture, and headlined events such as the London AI Summit 2024.
Official Testimonial for Nick Hawes:
“We really appreciate learning directly from a leading expert on the hypes vs use cases of this cutting-edge technology. Nick was super articulate and even-handed, able to explain complicated subjects clearly to a semi-informed audience and we especially love his insights on what the successful integration of robotics AI looks like.” – Mandy, World50
3) Mo Gawdat (9.0/10)
Mo Gowdat is a former Chief Business Officer for Google and a prominent voice on the future impact of artificial intelligence. He is a four-time international bestselling author, including ‘Scary Smart’, and serves as Chief AI Officer for Steven Bartlett’s Flight Story. Mo also hosts the Number 1 podcast Slo Mo, translating complex technology shifts into practical leadership insights for organisations navigating rapid change.
Official Testimonial for Mo Gowdat:
“Mo Gawdat is the expert guide you need to help decipher the realities of a complex subject” – Bruce, Vice President, Twitter
4) Dr Laura Gilbert CBE (9.4/10)
Dr Laura Gilbert is Director of Data Science and AI at 10 Downing Street and a joint Chief Analyst in the Cabinet Office. She leads major public-sector AI initiatives and has held senior roles shaping the UK’s approach to responsible AI, including work with the Tony Blair Institute. Laura is also a visiting professor at the LSE and is connected to Oxford-based innovation programmes, bringing policy-grade credibility to organisational AI adoption.
Official Testimonial for Laura Gilbert:
“There is probably a future world in which the big tech providers dominate, and rich people get much richer and a lot more people end up with no jobs and health services are even more preferential to white people and people with money have a much better education.” – Laura Gilbert, Interview with The Innovator
5) Laurence Moroney (9.0/10)
Laurence Moroney is Global Director of AI at Arm and a former Global Head of AI at Google. He is an international bestselling author and a sought-after educator, including co-creating a DeepLearning AI course with Andrew Ng. Laurence also serves on advisory and board bodies connected to major AI initiatives and was recognised as a 2024 LinkedIn Top Voice, combining technical depth with accessible delivery for business audiences.
Official Testimonial for Laurence Moroney:
“Exploring how Language Model Mathematics (LLMs) can elevate your code is an exciting endeavor, and the partnership with Google, along with instruction from Laurence Moroney, promises a valuable learning experience. Whether it’s bug detection or seamless snippet integration, these skills can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of software development.” – Ernesto, Analytics Manager, Accenture
6) Didem Un Ates (8.8/10)
Didem Un Ates is an AI leader known for enterprise strategy and practical implementation. She has held senior roles across Microsoft, Accenture, and Schneider Electric, and founded Microsoft’s Girl in AI Hackathon. Didem has led programmes spanning data, AI, and education innovation, and currently advises at senior level including work connected to Goldman Sachs and its Global AI Council. She is also linked to global policy communities.
Official Testimonial for Didem Un Ates:
“Didem was a tremendously engaging speaker, incredibly knowledgeable and credible in her areas of expertise and has a great way to simplify and give context to very complex topics. She shared some great examples of her work which resonated well with the audience, and took time to answer questions at the end. It was an excellent experience for our guests. She was everything we hoped for as a first-class speaker.” – OVH Cloud
7) Dr Andrew Ayres MBA (8.6/10)
Dr Andrew Ayres is a specialist in AI governance, enterprise transformation, and digital acceleration. He is a Master Strategist at Hewlett Packard Enterprise and a member of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence. Andrew previously led EMEA roles at Gartner and completed a PhD focused on AI governance. He is also author of the forthcoming book ‘The Agentic Edge’, helping organisations govern autonomous systems with clarity and control.
Official Quote from Andrew Ayres:
“It’s at times of crisis that we have to seek out positivity and perspective – we have to collaborate and create – we have to spur each other on. If we play our cards right now – I believe we can turn crisis into opportunity.” – Andrew Ayres
8) Rahaf Harfoush (8.7/10)
Rahaf Harfoush is a New York Times bestselling author of The Decoded Company and a leading thinker on technology, work, and creativity. She has served on the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI and is a Fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute. Rahaf also worked with President Barack Obama’s social media team and has delivered a widely viewed TED Talk on burnout and creativity, making her relevant for leadership and HR audiences.
Official Testimonial for Rahaf Harfoush:
“You really set the tone of the day. I don’t think I ever received so many positive feedback about a speaker at one of our events.” — Edouard, Head of Media Partnerships, Facebook
9) Nina Schick (9.3/10)
Nina Schick is a recognised authority on generative AI and synthetic media. She wrote what is described as the world’s first book on generative AI and is author of Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse. Nina has advised senior political and security leaders, including links to NATO and US leadership, and was a 2023 LinkedIn Top Voice on AI. She also leads a large GenAI community and advises AI video company Synthesia.
Official Testimonial for Nina Schick:
“We had excellent feedback from our guests on the quality of the speakers, with Nina being at the very top! Her presentation was pitched just right and extremely popular.” – Transparity
10) Professor Sana Khareghani (9.0/10)
Professor Sana Khareghani is former Head of the UK Government Office for Artificial Intelligence and now Professor of Practice in AI at King’s College London. She is AI Policy Lead for Responsible AI UK and a Trustee at The Institute for the Future of Work. Sana holds an MBA in Computer Science from MIT and brings rare experience across policy, practice, and governance, helping organisations align AI ambition with responsible, workable delivery.
Official Quote from Sana Khareghani:
“Responsibility starts with people, and it’s the work of all of us across academia, government, industry and civil society to come together to secure an equitable AI future for all.” – Sana Khareghani, Interview with Kings College London
11) Henry Ajder (8.9/10)
Henry Ajder is known as the world’s first “GenAI Cartographer” and a leading specialist on deepfakes and synthetic media risk. He has led generative AI research at MIT and worked with the deepfake detection company Sensity AI. Henry has presented for the BBC and sits on the Meta Reality Labs Advisory Council. He also contributed to widely referenced deepfake reporting and advises organisations such as EY on generative AI.
Official Testimonial for Henry Ajder:
“Henry is an absolute rockstar in the world of AI. If you’re looking for a speaker who brings unparalleled enthusiasm and expertise to your event, look no further!” – London Tech Week
12) Sophia the Robot (8.2/10)
Sophia the Robot is a globally recognised robotics figure, often booked for high-impact conference moments focused on AI, innovation, and human–machine interaction. She is billed as the world’s first robot to receive citizenship of any country, making her a distinctive option for event planners seeking an attention-holding centrepiece alongside broader content on the implications of AI and robotics for business and society.
Official Testimonial for Sophia the Robot:
“Sophia was great, everyone loved her” – Karen, Dell
13) Professor John Tasioulas (8.8/10)
Professor John Tasioulas is Director of the Oxford Institute for Ethics in AI and Professor of Ethics and Legal Philosophy at the University of Oxford. He advises on AI and human rights, including consulting work connected to the World Bank and European Parliament science and technology futures. John has also advised senior political leadership internationally and co-edits major academic work in international law, making him a strong choice for governance, legal, and policy audiences.
Official Quote from John Tasioulas:
“AI may replicate human capabilities, but it risks underestimating the unique aspects of human nature. AI makes mistakes humans wouldn’t, and it lacks rational autonomy. It lacks a kind of engagement with the world—it’s a model of the world, not a participant in it.” – Professor John Tasioulas, Chair on AI & Democracy’Lecture
14) Toju Duke (8.7/10)
Toju Duke is Programme Manager for Responsible AI at Google, founder of Diverse AI, and author of ‘Building Responsible AI Algorithms’. She is valued for translating responsible AI principles into practical actions for product and data teams, with a focus on fairness, accountability, and measurable governance. Toju’s experience inside a global technology organisation makes her especially relevant for leadership events where organisations want to operationalise responsible AI rather than treat it as theory.
Official Testimonial for Toju Duke:
“Toju Duke delivered a high-quality and engaging presentation on the latest trends in inclusive AI. Toju was well-prepared and knowledgeable, and our audience appreciated her industry insights.” – Lola & Lenia, Chairs, Women at SEGA
15) Rachel Botsman (9.0/10)
Rachel Botsman is an Oxford University Lecturer and Trust Fellow at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School. She is an acclaimed author and has been recognised by Monocle among the world’s top speakers, with her work also highlighted by WIRED. Rachel’s expertise in trust, technology, and social change is highly relevant for AI adoption, helping business audiences understand how confidence is earned, lost, and rebuilt when systems and decisions become more automated.
Official Testimonial for Rachel Botsman:
”Rachel’s talk both provoked and inspired, setting off an active conversation that continues to this day and worldwide within the company”- Microsoft
16) Kay Firth-Butterfield (9.1/10)
Kay Firth-Butterfield is a globally recognised leader in AI ethics and governance, including serving as Global Head of AI and Machine Learning at the World Economic Forum. She is widely cited as the world’s first Chief AI Ethics Officer and advises parliamentary and standards initiatives connected to ethical AI. Kay has held senior roles influencing AI policy and law, making her a strong choice for boards and regulated sectors that need credible guidance on responsible deployment.
Official Testimonial for Kay Firth-Butterfield:
“Kay’s deep and broad knowledge of AI allowed Kay to raise a lot of awareness and to provide insight into how enterprises should respond to the questions raised by AI, both for AI created by technology companies or AI procured by enterprises in all industry sectors. Kay is very engaging and did not only show a lot of presence on stage but also had great follow-up discussions with customers over dinner and throughout the day.” – Christian, Head of International Legal, Adobe
17) Professor Shafi Ahmed (8.8/10)
Professor Shafi Ahmed is a surgeon, entrepreneur, and innovation keynote speaker known for performing the world’s first virtual reality operation broadcast globally. He is CEO of Medical Realities, a faculty member at Harvard Medical School, and an Honorary Professor of Practice at UCL. Shafi has delivered multiple TEDx talks and advises major technology and healthcare organisations. He is well-suited to events exploring AI in health, innovation, and high-stakes change.
Official Testimonail for Shafi Ahmed:
“Shafi is not only world class but a true health tech pioneer. He couples his knowledge and encourages youngsters. A true role model. One of the nicest person I know. I wish him continuing successes . Shafi you are not only a medical star but superb Techie who makes a difference to those in need.” – Dillip, Pro Transport Professional
18) Matt Clifford (8.9/10)
Matt Clifford is a senior UK AI and innovation leader, serving as a Prime Minister’s Adviser on AI Opportunity and a representative for the AI Safety Summit. He co-founded and chairs Entrepreneur First and also chairs the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency, linked to major national funding. Matt authored the AI Opportunities Action Plan and is frequently booked to explain how the UK can scale AI capability responsibly and competitively.
Official Quote from Matt Clifford:
“AI presents us with so many opportunities to grow the economy and improve people’s lives. The UK is leading the way in many areas, but we can do even better”. – Matt Clifford
19) Ray Kurzweil (8.5/10)
Ray Kurzweil is Chief Futurist at Google and an inductee of the National Inventors Hall of Fame. He is best known for long-range thinking on technology trajectories and the implications of accelerating innovation. Ray is typically booked for major conferences and leadership audiences seeking a visionary view of what AI could mean over the coming decades, helping organisations think beyond short-term cycles while maintaining strategic discipline.
Official Testimonial for Ray Kurzweil:
“Ray came in and really inspired our employees. His presentation was extremely well received, and many people in the audience expressed their gratitude for being in the presence of one of their true heroes. My inbox has been filled with thanks and expressions of how their perspective on their jobs has really changed. I don’t think we could have asked for much more than that!” – Dolby
20) Jason Bates (8.4/10)
Jason Bates is a fintech entrepreneur and transformation speaker, known as co-founder and Chief Customer Officer of Monzo and a co-founder of Starling Bank. He has also launched major innovation initiatives, including the Barclays Digital Eagle, and co-founded 11:FS, a consultancy focused on digital transformation. Jason is a strong choice for events where AI is part of a broader customer, product, and operating-model shift.
Official Testimonial for Jason Bates:
“Jason is a ‘stand out’ professional, bright, articulate, original, creative and full of positive energy. He has worked as a consultant for some of our clients and always gets outstanding feedback. I have always been super impressed with the quality of the form and content of whatever he produces. Through our business we get to know a lot of very good consultants; Jason is in the ‘best of the best’ club and i cannot recommend him highly enough.” – Tony, Founding Partner B2E Consulting
21) Lex Fridman (8.7/10)
Lex Fridman is a Research Scientist at MIT, a deep learning lecturer, and host of the widely followed Lex Fridman Podcast. He is frequently cited among top AI influencers and has a large global audience across major platforms. Lex is typically booked for high-level events that want thoughtful, research-informed discussion about AI progress, safety, and society, framed through conversations with leading scientists, technologists, and decision-makers.
Official Quote from Lex Fridaman:
“I worry that we humans will discriminate against AI systems that clearly exhibit consciousness. That we will not allow AI systems to have consciousness.” – Lex Fridman
22) Dame Professor Wendy Hall (9.2/10)
Dame Wendy Hall is Regius Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton and a pioneering figure in web and data science. She co-founded the Web Science Research Initiative with Sir Tim Berners-Lee and has served as Co-Chair of the UK Government’s AI Council. Wendy has also sat on global futures councils and international advisory bodies, making her a compelling speaker on AI governance, digital policy, and the long-term societal impact of technology.
Official Testimonial for Wendy Hall:
Dame Wendy Hall provided an insightful and balanced perspective on AI’s trajectory, its societal implications, and the urgent need for regulation. I personally found very interesting her emphasis on societal responsibility, particularly the dangers of misinformation and unchecked technological deployment. Furthermore, her optimism about AI’s potential to reshape industries, education, and work patterns, while maintaining caution about existential risks, was setting a pragmatic and visionary tone that resonated with the audience.” – Sergio, Deloitte LLP
23) Hannah Fry (8.8/10)
Hannah Fry is a mathematician, best-selling author, and Professor in the Mathematics of Cities. She is also an award-winning science presenter and podcast host, known for explaining complex systems and data-driven decision-making clearly to broad audiences. Hannah is well-suited to conferences and leadership events where organisations want a human, accessible understanding of how algorithms shape outcomes, and what leaders should question when relying on models in the real world.
Official Testimonial for Hannah Fry:
“Fantastic and so relevant for the people attending! Really good presentation and lively Q&A” – The Data Lab
24) Zack Kass (8.9/10)
Zack Kass is a global AI strategist and futurist, described as a former Head of Market at OpenAI and an adviser to major organisations on AI strategy. He is booked to help leaders understand what AI adoption means for competitive advantage, operations, and workforce change. Zack’s strength is translating fast-moving AI developments into clear leadership choices, including how to prioritise use cases, prepare teams, and set practical expectations for implementation.
Official Testimonial for Zack Kass:
“Zack helped us plan our entire AI strategy” – Coca-Cola
25) Richard Foster-Fletcher (8.6/10)
Richard Foster-Fletcher is a former AI and CX Director at Oracle and a recognised UK voice on AI, customer experience, and the future of work. He has held advisory roles linked to public and private sector leadership, including boards and policy contexts, and has been recognised as a leading AI communicator. Richard is well-suited to leadership and HR audiences seeking practical guidance on how AI changes work design, capability planning, and customer expectations.
Official Testimonial for Richard Foster-Fletcher:
“Richard’s keynote at our recent EMEA Conference was both enlightening and engaging. His presentation adeptly addressed the complex interplay of AI innovation and ethics, enhancing our understanding of these critical issues. Richard combined humour and humility to make the intricate topics of bias and the future of work approachable, while his interactive style enriched our session. We are grateful for his significant contribution to the conference and for advancing the conversation on ethical AI.” – Megan, Executive Director, MBA Career Services & Employee Alliance
26) Dr Kate Darling (8.7/10)
Dr Kate Darling is an MIT researcher and a Harvard fellow specialising in robot and AI ethics. She is booked for leadership and policy audiences that want a grounded understanding of how humans relate to intelligent systems, and what that means for trust, risk, and adoption. Kate’s work helps organisations consider the behavioural and ethical dimensions of robotics and AI, making her a strong fit for governance programmes and innovation events with societal implications.
Official Testimonial for Kate Darling:
“Kate Darling was a smash hit. She was absolutely delightful. I would highly recommend her, and I would book her again in a heartbeat. Her talk is fascinating and the follow-up conversation with our CEO was terrific.” – Juniper Networks
27) Allie Miller (8.8/10)
Allie Miller is an AI business leader known for senior roles across Amazon Web Services and IBM, including building IBM’s first trained multimodal AI system. She has been recognised for innovation and is frequently booked for practical, executive-friendly keynotes on AI strategy, product direction, and adoption. Allie is best suited to organisations that want clear next steps and a realistic view of what it takes to translate machine learning capability into scalable business outcomes.
Official Testimonial for Allie Miller:
“She is a visionary leader who can see the big picture and develop strategies to achieve her goals. She is a strong communicator who’s infectious positivity can inspire and motivate her team members. She is a results-oriented leader who is always looking for ways to improve.” – Rob, CTO, Microsoft for Startups
28) Kai-Fu Lee (8.9/10)
Kai-Fu Lee is a globally recognised AI leader with senior experience across Microsoft, Google China, and Apple. He has chaired global councils connected to the World Economic Forum and is the bestselling author of AI 2041. Kai-Fu has been named among influential AI figures and is booked to help executives understand global AI competition, talent dynamics, and investment trends, connecting technology progress to strategic choices for business leaders.
Official Testimonial for Kai-Fu Lee:
“He is a strategic leader who delegates and then coaches. He makes people accountable for their performance and is quick to recognize and reward effort and success. […] A leader with vision who gets results for the company.” – Richard, Programme Management Product Development
29) Noelle Russell (8.8/10)
Noelle Russell is Founder and CEO of the AI Leadership Institute and a recognised leader in responsible and agentic AI. She has been a multi-time Microsoft AI Most Valuable Professional and serves as a global ambassador role linked to responsible AI. Noelle is booked for organisations that want practical governance and leadership guidance, especially around safe adoption, organisational readiness, and the shift from experimentation to scalable systems that can be trusted.
Official Testimonial for Noelle Russell:
“Noelle keynoted our AI conference last week and she was terrific! Smart, accomplished, engaging, entertaining and an absolute expert on the subject matter, Noelle was riveting from beginning to end. In addition, she was great to work with, down-to-earth and personable while also highly professional and dependable. I highly recommend her for your AI event!” – Ian, Founder & CSO, Distribution Strategy Group
30) John C. Havens (8.6/10)
John C. Havens is Executive Director of the IEEE global initiative on ethics of autonomous and intelligent systems and Executive Director of the Council on Extended Intelligence. He is also the author of ‘Heartificial Intelligence’, focusing on human-centred technology and trust. John is well suited to organisations that need ethical frameworks that translate into operational decisions, helping leaders define accountability, evaluate risk, and design AI programmes that respect people and improve outcomes.
Official Testimonial for John C. Havens:
“His exceptional interpersonal skills enable him to bring out the best in people, nurturing collaboration across diversity. John is more than a leader in our field; he’s a catalyst for positive change in shaping the future of AI and extended intelligence.” – Audrey, Cyber Ambassador
31) Yoshua Bengio (9.0/10)
Yoshua Bengio is one of the three widely recognised “godfathers of AI” and a Turing Award recipient alongside Geoffrey Hinton and Yann LeCun. He has been named among influential AI figures and is booked for high-level conferences where deep research authority matters. Yoshua’s key value is helping leaders understand the direction of AI capability and the implications for safety, governance, and long-term decision-making at national and organisational levels.
Official Quote from Yoshua Bengio:
“The current use of AI isn’t necessarily aligned with the goals of building a better society, unfortunately. We could change that” – Yoshua Bengio
32) Sarah Armstrong-Smith (8.7/10)
Sarah Armstrong-Smith is Microsoft’s Chief Security Adviser and a board member, known for expertise spanning cyber resilience, crisis management, and organisational risk. She is a bestselling author of ‘Effective Crisis Management’ and has held senior resilience roles at Fujitsu and the London Stock Exchange Group. Sarah is booked where AI intersects with security and governance, helping leaders understand evolving threat landscapes, preparedness, and the practical steps organisations need to protect systems and maintain continuity.
Official Testimonial for Sarah Armstrong-Smith:
“This is excellent Sarah, definitely reflects the journey that many companies are on with regards to their roles of CISO at Board level with an understanding of the Business and Technical challenges that the organisation faces. Love these Cyber Insights” – Andy, Head of Security & Compliance
33) Baroness Joanna Shields (8.8/10)
Baroness Joanna Shields is CEO of BenevolentAI and served as the UK’s first Minister of State for Internet Safety and Security. She is booked for leadership audiences focused on responsible innovation, policy, and the societal implications of technology. Joanna’s strength is combining executive experience with public-sector insight, helping organisations navigate governance, safety, and trust in an AI-driven environment, particularly where stakeholder expectations and regulation are evolving quickly.
Official Quote from Joanna Shields:
“AI is not destiny. It is design. And design is a moral act. The goal is not to slow innovation — it is to ensure innovation serves human dignity rather than eroding it.” – Baroness Joanna Shields
34) Kate Crawford (9.0/10)
Kate Crawford is the author of ‘Atlas of AI’ and a Senior Principal Researcher at Microsoft. She has been named among influential AI figures and holds academic appointments focused on AI and justice. Kate is booked for organisations that want a clear-eyed view of AI’s real-world impacts, including power, accountability, and the hidden costs of systems. Her talks help leaders ask better questions about governance, data practices, and the consequences of deployment at scale.
Official Testimonial for Kate Crawford:
“Kate Crawford… demonstrates again and again, artificial intelligence does not come to us as a deus ex machine but, rather, through a number of dehumanising extractive practices, of which most of us are unaware.” – The New York Review of Books
35) Inma Martinez (8.5/10)
Inma Martinez is an AI and innovation adviser with experience across international policy and expert groups, including work connected to the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence. She has advised public bodies and governments on AI strategy and performance excellence. Inma is booked for leadership audiences that need a practical view of how to align AI innovation with governance and public trust, especially in complex environments involving multiple stakeholders and regulatory expectations.
Official Testimonial for Inma Martinez:
“One of the best talents in human digital behaviour” – TIME
36) Danilo McGarry (8.5/10)
Danilo McGarry is a former Head of AI and Machine Learning at Citi and has led large-scale automation programmes, including work connected to the world’s largest automation initiative. He has been recognised as a LinkedIn Top Voice and is known for practical AI learning and business application. Danilo is booked to help organisations move beyond pilots, building capability and delivery discipline so AI efforts translate into measurable performance and operational improvements.
Official Testimonial for Danilo McGarry:
“Danilo just delivered the best speech on AI I have ever seen, truly eye-opening and life-changing.” – National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (US Government)
37) Jon French (8.4/10)
Jon French is a senior commercial leader with experience at Google EMEA, Microsoft, Samsung, and Beats by Dr Dre. He is booked as a leading UK voice on applying AI in business transformation, particularly for organisations that want operational impact, not theory. Jon’s key value is linking technology capability to execution: aligning teams, clarifying priorities, and driving adoption across functions, with practical insight drawn from high-growth and global environments.
Official Testimonial for Jon French:
“Jon delivered an insightful session, exploring technological disruptions, industry challenges, and the power of adaptability – key lessons for students preparing to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. A huge thank you to Jon for sharing his expertise and inspiring the next generation of business leaders!” – Nottingham Business School
38) Simon Greenman (8.4/10)
Simon Greenman is a technology entrepreneur and innovation leader who co-founded Best Practice AI and helped pioneer early geospatial internet products, including MapQuest. He is linked to global innovation communities and advisory networks. Simon is booked for audiences that need practical strategy on building and scaling technology-led products and AI-enabled services. He helps leaders think clearly about adoption, platform dynamics, and the commercial realities of innovation programmes.
Official Testimonial for Simon Greenman:
“Simon brings a rare combination of intellect, experience and enthusiasm to business challenges. He manages to combine the raw excitement of a new start-up founder with the worldly-wise savvy of an experienced investor who has seen it all before. He is a pleasure to work with” – Tim, Partner, Best Practice AI
39) Tiffany St James (8.6/10)
Tiffany St James is described as the UK’s first regional Chief AI Officer and has led significant public-sector digital transformation, including launching Data.gov.uk. She has worked with early internet pioneers and is recognised for influence in digital strategy. Tiffany is booked for organisations that need leadership insight on AI adoption, stakeholder engagement, and practical delivery. She connects technology ambition to implementation reality, with a focus on trust, participation, and measurable outcomes in complex environments.
Official Testimonial for Tiffany St James:
“Tiff’s knowledge on AI is second to none. Our team spent the day with her, for which she designed a bespoke presentation on AI that not only met our needs but was inspiring, with plenty of practical applications for all different sectors of the business. On a personal level, I love spending time with Tiff as she is brilliant fun and extremely knowledgable!” – Tania, Head of Marketing, The Event Academy
40) Damian Collins OBE (8.3/10)
Damian Collins is a former UK Minister for Technology and the Digital Economy and chaired key parliamentary committees, including work on online safety and disinformation. He has also worked in strategic communications and holds roles in academia and business. Damian is booked for organisations navigating AI-related regulation, platform governance, and reputational risk. He helps leadership audiences understand how policy is evolving and what it means for organisational accountability and decision-making.
Official Testimonial for Damian Collins:
“Thank you very much to Damian Collins OBE, former MP, Minister for Tech, and Chair of the DCMS Select Committee, for reminding us why defending European competition and copyright regulation online is crucial. Because without strong digital rules, innovation loses direction — and creativity loses protection.” – Siinda
41) Priya Lakhani OBE (8.7/10)
Priya Lakhani is Founder and CEO of CENTURY Tech, an award-winning AI education company. She is a member of the UK Prime Minister’s Council of Science and Technology and co-founded the Institute for Ethical AI in Education. Priya also co-hosts BBC News AI Decoded and has been recognised by the World Economic Forum. She is booked for leadership audiences focused on skills, learning, and responsible AI at scale.
Official Quote from Priya Lakhani:
“Remember, not all AI is creted equal. My advice? Focus on your business needs and let the experts help you navigate the technology” – Priya Lakhani
42) Dr Paul Dongha (8.4/10)
Paul Dongha is Global Head of AI and AI Strategy at NatWest and formerly led data and AI roles at Lloyds Banking Group. He has co-chaired ethics governance and held AI ethics leadership roles in industry, alongside academic lecturing and research involvement. Paul is booked for financial services and risk-aware audiences that need practical insight on governance, model risk, and responsible deployment, translating complex AI decisions into clear leadership actions and operating models.
Official Testimonial for Paul Dongha:
“Paul’s appearances at events like The AI Summit New York and London have consistently elevated the discourse.. As a speaker, Paul is exemplary.. his presentations and panel contributions are marked by thoughtful, practical insights that deftly balance innovation with responsible AI frameworks.” – Evelina, Lead Producer, Informa – The AI Summit London, 2034 and 2024
43) Katie King (8.5/10)
Katie King is CEO of AI in Business and a recognised speaker on AI adoption in marketing and commercial strategy. She has held editorial and advisory roles connected to UK policy discussions on AI adoption and contributes to AI and ethics discourse. Katie is booked for leadership and marketing audiences that want practical routes to implementation, including use-case selection, capability planning, and change management. She helps organisations build momentum while keeping governance and customer trust in view.
Official Testimonial for Katie King:
“Katie was absolutely fantastic from start to finish—engaging, warm, and genuinely personable. She made a real effort to connect with attendees one-on-one, taking time for every conversation and making people feel heard and valued. […] Her keynote was also spot on—she delivered everything we asked for and more. It can be tough to land on content that’s both insightful and actionable, but she did just that. Attendees walked away with real, practical takeaways they could implement, which is exactly what we hoped for.” – Kristan, Edwards School of Business, University of Sadkatchewan, Canada
44) Daniel Hulme (8.9/10)
Daniel Hulme is Chief AI Officer at WPP and a four-time TEDx speaker known for applied AI strategy and innovation leadership. He previously founded and led Satalia, which he sold for a reported major acquisition, and has advised governments and organisations on AI strategy. Daniel is booked for enterprises that want a clear, delivery-focused view of how to scale AI responsibly, balancing commercial opportunity with execution risk, governance, and real organisational constraints.
“Daniel is one of the most engaging speakers out there on the subject of artificial intelligence. He has a natural ability to convey complex technical concepts into an accessible and entertaining format.” – Rob, Director of AI, PwC
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