Alison Edgar

Alison Edgar MBE is a renowned entrepreneur, behavioural psychology expert and change management specialist, recognised for helping individuals and organisations achieve sustainable growth through stronger relationships, goal setting and high-performance cultures. As the founder and Managing Director of SMASH IT! Training, Alison has become one of the UK’s most respected business advisers, delivering impactful keynote speeches on topics including change management, imposter syndrome, innovation and sales success. A dynamic and engaging speaker, she has worked with leading organisations including EasyJet, The Discovery Channel, SkyBet and the NHS, while also advising the government on business legislation and economic growth. Her ability to translate complex behavioural concepts into practical strategies has established her as a sought-after authority in business and leadership development.

Alison began her career in the hospitality sector, initially serving as Front Office Manager for Seymour Hotels of Jersey before progressing into senior leadership roles with Welcome Hotels & Restaurants and Radisson. These early experiences provided her with valuable insight into customer service, people management and commercial growth. Driven by a passion for helping businesses succeed, she transitioned into entrepreneurship and consultancy, ultimately founding SMASH IT! Training. Through her work, Alison has supported organisations of all sizes, from ambitious start-ups to multinational corporations, helping leaders develop the mindset and skills needed to thrive in rapidly changing environments.

A dyslexic author and respected thought leader, Alison has written two international best-selling books, including ‘SMASH IT!: The Art of Getting What YOU Want’, which became a three-time Amazon international bestseller. Her work has been recognised by WHSmith as one of the Top Ten Business Books and by The Independent as one of the Top 10 Business Books Written by a Woman. Twice named among the UK’s Top Ten Business Advisers, she was awarded an MBE in 2020 for services to entrepreneurship and business and received an Honorary Doctorate of Education in 2024.

Beyond her commercial success, Alison is committed to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. She has served as a mentor for StartUp Britain, The Aspire Foundation and Independent Export Advisors, while also contributing as a judge for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and Young Enterprise UK. A familiar face across business media, Alison is a BBC Small Business Expert and contributor, and in 2023 starred in the Amazon Prime UK and US business television series ‘Ready Set StartUP’. Her practical expertise, authenticity and infectious energy continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

Alison Edgar delivers practical, high-energy keynote presentations that empower audiences to embrace change, overcome self-limiting beliefs and achieve measurable results. Combining expertise in behavioural psychology, entrepreneurship and leadership, she provides actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately within organisations. Her TEDx talk, ‘The Art of Getting What You Want’, further showcased her ability to connect with audiences through relatable storytelling and proven business insights. Whether speaking on innovation, performance, sales or mindset, Alison leaves audiences motivated, engaged and equipped with the confidence and tools to drive lasting success.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Alison Edgar’s remarkable career:

  • 2024 – Awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education in recognition of her contributions to business, entrepreneurship and learning.
  • 2023 – Starred in the Amazon Prime UK and US business television series ‘Ready Set StartUP’.
  • 2023 – Delivered a widely acclaimed keynote speech at the Women in Business event, praised for its energy and practical insights.
  • 2020 – Appointed MBE in Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday Honours for services to entrepreneurship and business.
  • 2020 – Published ‘SMASH IT!: The Art of Getting What YOU Want’, which became a three-time Amazon international bestseller.
  • 2019 – Named one of the UK’s Top 10 Business Advisers by Enterprise Nation.
  • 2018 – Served as a judge for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and delivered her TEDx talk, ‘The Art of Getting What You Want’.
  • 2016 – Ranked among the 100 Most Influential British Entrepreneurs by Richtopia, highlighting her growing influence across the UK business community.