Arne Elias Corneliussen

Arne Elias Corneliussen is an internationally recognised geopolitical strategist, explorer and business leader best known as the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NRCI, a leading geopolitical advisory firm. Through decades of research, global fieldwork and strategic analysis, he has built a reputation for helping organisations understand the complex forces shaping international markets, political developments and future risks. His unique approach combines first-hand observations from around the world with deep geopolitical expertise, making him one of the most sought-after voices on global trends, risk and opportunity. As a result, Arne is regularly hired as a keynote speaker by businesses, investors and organisations seeking informed perspectives on an increasingly uncertain world.

Arne began his career in research, serving as Research Coordinator for the Centre for Strategic & International Studies and later for Celare. He then joined the Norwegian Armed Forces, first as a soldier and later as an officer, experiences that strengthened his understanding of security, leadership and international affairs. Moving into the private sector, he held senior roles with Hafslund Security, including Senior Consultant, Team Motivator and Sales Manager, before becoming International Key Account Manager for Lyreco Skandinavien. He subsequently worked as a Management Consultant for Futurestep, advising organisations on growth and strategy. Building on this diverse professional background, he founded NRCI and established it as a respected authority in geopolitical intelligence and strategic forecasting.

Arne’s expertise has earned significant recognition across business and academic circles. He was invited to deliver a keynote address at SuperReturn Africa, one of the continent’s leading investment events, and has also spoken at the Norwegian Risk Forum. His commitment to understanding global developments is demonstrated through numerous geopolitical fact-finding expeditions, including his eleventh major expedition across Africa. Beyond the conference stage, he expanded his reach as the host and anchor of Global Horizon, sharing insights on international affairs and emerging trends with a wider audience. These experiences allow him to provide audiences with informed and practical perspectives that few commentators can match.

Arne’s standing is further reflected through his election as a Fellow of both The Linnean Society of London and the Royal Geographical Society. These honours recognise his contributions to exploration, research and global understanding. What distinguishes Arne as a keynote speaker is his ability to connect geopolitical developments with real-world business implications. Drawing on experience across research, military service, consulting, leadership and field exploration, he delivers engaging presentations that are insightful, relevant and actionable. Audiences value his ability to explain complex global issues with clarity, helping leaders navigate risk, identify opportunity and prepare for the future with confidence. This rare combination of strategic expertise, global experience and compelling communication is why Arne is consistently hired to speak at major conferences and executive events around the world.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Arne Elias Corneliussen’s remarkable career:

  • 2023 – Embarked on his 11th Geopolitical Fact-Finding Expedition in Africa
  • 2023 – Invited to deliver a Keynote Address at SuperReturn Africa
  • 2019 – Host & Anchor of Global Horizon
  • 2017 – Fellow of The Linnean Society of London
  • 2017 – Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society
  • 2010 – Keynote Speaker at the Norwegian Risk Forum
  • 2009 – Founder, Chairman & CEO of NRCI
  • 2008 – Management Consultant for Futurestep
  • 2004 – International Key Account Manager for Lyreco Skandinavien
  • 2003 – Sales Manager of Hafslund Security
  • 2002 – Senior Consultant & Team Motivator for Hafslund Security
  • 2001 – Officer of the Norwegian Armed Forces
  • 2000 – Soldier in the Norwegian Armed Forces
  • 1999 – Research Coordinator of Celare
  • 1998 – Research Coordinator of the Center for Strategic & International Studies