Ben Hammersley

Coiner of The Term “Podcast”, Former Editor-At-Large of Wired UK, Former Prime Minister’s Ambassador to East London Tech City & Presenter of “Cybercrimes with Ben Hammersley”

Ben Hammersley’s Biography:

Ben Hammersley is one of the world’s most authoritative voices on the future of technology, society and digital transformation. Best known for coining the word “podcast” in 2004 while writing for The Guardian, he has shaped how billions consume audio content and influenced the evolution of the global media landscape. As a leading futurist, he provides strategic insight to governments, global institutions and major corporations on navigating complexity in the modern digital age.

Ben has worked at the heart of technological innovation as Editor-at-Large of WIRED UK and as the UK Prime Minister’s Ambassador to East London Tech City. He has been a Non-Resident Fellow of the Brookings Institution and a Fellow of the Robert Schuman School for Advanced Studies, roles that enable him to influence international policy and critical thinking on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and information warfare.

His broadcasting career includes presenting Cybercrimes with Ben Hammersley for the BBC and Netflix, as well as BBC World News’ six-part series on cybercrime and numerous BBC Radio 4 programmes, including Futureproof Yourself. A prolific writer, his book 64 Things You Need to Know Now for Then, has guided global audiences through the forces shaping the 21st-century world.

With more than 15 years on stage as a keynote speaker and advisor, Ben is renowned for making highly technical ideas accessible, compelling and actionable. A true polymath, he brings a blend of journalism, deep technology expertise and practical experience from working with organisations across defence, emergency response, media and government. His work empowers leaders to make confident decisions in an era defined by unprecedented change.

Why Hire Ben Hammersley?

Ben delivers high-impact keynotes that decode the complexities of emerging technology, digital risk and societal transformation. He equips decision-makers with the ability to anticipate what’s coming next — from AI and cybersecurity to future talent and organisational resilience. With a unique perspective gained from frontline journalism, international policy advisory and hands-on innovation, he challenges audiences to rethink assumptions and adopt practical strategies for future-proofing. Ben ensures every audience leaves informed, inspired and prepared for the realities of tomorrow.

Ben Hammersley’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Ben Hammersley’s inspirational career:

• 2025 – Recognised for delivering high-impact keynote talks worldwide, further establishing his reputation as a leading futurist voice shaping how organisations prepare for the future.
• 2023 – Writer and strategic technology commentator for WIRED, advising on future global trends and innovation.
• 2015 – Presented a six-part BBC World News documentary series on cybersecurity and online crime.
• 2013 – Appointed Fellow of the Robert Schuman School for Advanced Studies, shaping academic perspectives on digital society.
• 2011 – Appointed a Fellow of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, contributing to global technology engagement.
• 2008 – Presenter of BBC Radio 4 programme Analysis, exploring complex policy and societal shifts.
• 2007 – Continued presenting Analysis on BBC Radio 4, reporting on emerging threats and digital culture.
• 2006 – Pioneered multi-platform digital journalism for The Guardian, leading transformation in newsroom technology.
• 2005 – Recognised by the New Oxford American Dictionary for creating the Word of the Year — “Podcast”.
• 2004 – Coined the term “podcast” in a column for The Guardian, marking a turning point in digital media history.