Founder of Exponential View, Co-Chair of the Global Futures Council at the World Economic Forum, Founder & Former CEO of PeerIndex & Named in the Top 10 Must Known Influencers Driving Conversation in the UK
Azeem Azhar’s Biography:
Azeem Azhar is one of the leading voices exploring how artificial intelligence, exponential technologies and digital transformation are reshaping business, society and the global economy. As the Founder of Exponential View and Founder and former CEO of PeerIndex, Azeem has built an international reputation as an expert strategist, analyst, product entrepreneur and writer. Having delivered more than 100 talks on AI and its economic impact, he is highly sought after as a keynote speaker by global businesses, universities and technology conferences. His ability to explain complex technological shifts with clarity and commercial relevance makes him a trusted advisor to leaders navigating disruption.
After studying Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Oxford, Azeem began his career in journalism and media, holding roles at The Guardian, The Economist and the BBC. He later became Head of Innovation at Reuters, where he explored the future of digital media and emerging technologies. In 2009, he founded PeerIndex, a pioneering social media analytics company that helped organisations better understand online influence. Following the success of PeerIndex, Azeem launched Exponential View in 2015, a platform examining the intersection of AI, business and society. Alongside his entrepreneurial work, he has held influential advisory and fellowship positions with Harvard Business School, Stanford University, Accenture and the Oxford Martin School.
Azeem is the author of the bestselling books “Exponential: How Accelerating Technology is Leaving Us Behind and What To Do About It” and “Exponential: Order & Chaos in an Age of Accelerating Technology”. He is also a Financial Times columnist and host of the Exponential View podcast, where he interviews global innovators, academics and business leaders. Recognised as a LinkedIn Top Voice on four occasions, he has also been named among the Top 10 Must Know Influencers Driving Conversation in the UK. His expertise has been featured across the BBC, Sky and CNN.
Beyond his writing and speaking, Azeem plays an active role in shaping conversations around technology policy and future risk. As Co-Chair of the Global Futures Council on Complex Risk at the World Economic Forum, he contributes to discussions on the societal impact of emerging technologies and geopolitical change. He is also a Fellow at the RSA and a Board Member of the Ada Lovelace Institute. Combining strategic insight with real-world business experience, Azeem empowers audiences to understand the opportunities and challenges presented by rapid technological advancement.
Why Hire Azeem Azhar?
Azeem Azhar is hired as a speaker for his exceptional ability to decode the future of AI, technology and business transformation in a practical and engaging way. Drawing on decades of experience across journalism, entrepreneurship and strategic advisory roles, he helps organisations understand how accelerating technologies will reshape industries, leadership and society. Azeem has spoken at prestigious institutions and conferences, including Harvard, TechCrunch, Deutsche Telekom, the World Economic Forum and WHU Founders Conference. His presentations combine deep research, global insight and compelling storytelling, leaving audiences better prepared to navigate uncertainty and seize future opportunities.
Azeem Azhar’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Azeem Azhar’s remarkable career:
- 2024 – Became a Digital Fellow at Stanford University, contributing expertise on emerging technologies and innovation.
- 2023 – Spoke at the World Economic Forum on the impact of technology, AI and global risk.
- 2023 – Appointed Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School, advising on technology and business transformation.
- 2023 – Became Co-Chair of the Global Futures Council on Complex Risk at the World Economic Forum.
- 2023 – Served as Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Martin School, exploring the future impact of AI and society.
- 2022 – Published ‘Exponential: Order & Chaos in an Age of Accelerating Technology’.
- 2021 – Released the bestselling book ‘Exponential: How Accelerating Technology is Leaving Us Behind and What To Do About It’.
- 2019 – Launched the Exponential View podcast, interviewing leading thinkers and innovators.
- 2015 – Founded Exponential View, a platform analysing AI, technology and the future economy.
- 2009 – Founded and led PeerIndex as CEO, pioneering social media influence analytics.
Videos
Azeem Azhar’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Azeem delivered a high-energy, authoritative overview of artificial intelligence that hit the sweet spot for our audience.” – Andrus, Director, Estonian Space Office
“Azeem Azhar delivered a riveting talk on exponential change and what it means for global business. He left us inspired and ready to act.” – Lars, Senior Global Director, LEGO Group
“Azeem delivered a knowledgeable presentation on artificial intelligence to a demanding audience. He brought humour and in-depth understanding to this key topic.”- NordicNext
Speaking Topics
Azeem Azhar’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Generative AI: The Good, the Bad, the Revolutionary
- The Past & Future of the Exponential Age
- The Market’s Guide to AI
- The AI Opportunity: A Leader’s Guide
How Much Does Azeem Azhar Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Azeem Azhar?
Azeem Azhar’s speaking fees typically reflect his 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.