Rachel Riley

TV Presenter, Oxford Mathematician, & Advocate for Women in STEM

Rachel Riley’s Biography:

Rachel Riley is one of Britain’s most recognised television personalities, best known as the resident mathematics expert on Channel 4’s long-running quiz show, Countdown, a role she has held for over a decade since 2009. Her down-to-earth character and relaxed approach to quick maths have kept the game show at the forefront of British television. She is a woman of many talents who appeals to a vast demographic, making her an ideal host or facilitator for various events.

Rachel’s career is founded on a strong academic background. Attending the esteemed University of Oxford, she graduated with a degree in Mathematics. After initially aiming to forge her future in finance, Rachel found the corporate world monotonous and soon turned to other avenues that would utilise her skill set. She made her television debut in 2009, quickly rising to prominence as the new maths and vocabulary expert on Countdown, succeeding Carol Vorderman.

Capitalising on her television success and expertise in STEM subjects, Rachel was sought after to front several other series, demonstrating her versatility. She has presented The Gadget Show and It’s Not Rocket Science, showcasing her enthusiasm for technology and science. Additionally, Rachel has established herself as a popular sports presenter, co-presenting Fantasy Football Club and Friday Night Football for Sky Sports, and actively campaigns on crucial social issues, leading to her receiving the 2019 Warrior for Truth Award.

As a speaker, Rachel leverages her prominent platform to champion important social causes, particularly advocating for women in STEM subjects. She actively engages pupils in schools on the topic, making complex mathematics fun and accessible, drawing on her Countdown experience. She delivers powerful and insightful keynotes on combating prejudice, using her experience as a campaigner against antisemitism, and is highly valued as an expert host for corporate events, awards ceremonies, and conferences.

Why Hire Rachel Riley?

Rachel Riley is a highly engaging speaker who transcends the role of TV presenter, combining her sharp academic intellect with mass-market appeal. As the numbers expert on Countdown, she has successfully demystified mathematics and made it enjoyable for a vast audience.

Hiring Rachel provides an event with a charismatic host who can facilitate complex discussions, particularly around data, technology, and finance. She is also a passionate advocate for social issues, delivering powerful and insightful keynotes on promoting STEM careers and combating prejudice. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences, coupled with her experience in high-pressure live TV environments, ensures a polished and memorable performance for any corporate or educational occasion.

Rachel Riley’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Rachel Riley’s inspirational career highlights throughout the world of media:

• 2025 – Appointed Patron of the Royal Society for STEM Education.
• 2019 – Receives the prestigious Warrior for Truth Award.
• 2016 – Co-presented major Sky Sports programs (Friday Night Football, Fantasy Football Club).
• 2014 – Presented science and technology shows (The Gadget Show, It’s Not Rocket Science).
• 2009 – Made television debut, joining Channel 4’s Countdown as the new numbers expert.
• 2008 – Graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in Mathematics.