Robert Guest

Deputy Editor at The Economist, Chair of Trustees at The Economist Educational Foundation & 2x Author

Robert Guest’s Biography:

Robert Guest is Deputy Editor of The Economist and one of Britain’s most respected commentators on geopolitics and global business. With editorial oversight of international coverage spanning Africa, Asia, Europe and the United States, Robert is trusted to interpret complex economic and political developments for senior decision-makers. As a keynote speaker, he is valued for his ability to connect global trends to commercial reality, offering audiences strategic clarity on trade, migration, growth and geopolitical risk.

Robert began his career as a freelance journalist in South Korea before becoming Tokyo Correspondent for The Daily Telegraph. He joined The Economist as Africa Editor, reporting from London and Johannesburg on governance and economic reform. He later served as Washington Correspondent, writing the Lexington column on American politics. Progressing through senior editorial leadership, he became Business Editor, then US Editor, before serving as Foreign Editor overseeing global coverage. He now sits on the publication’s top editorial team as Deputy Editor.

A two-time author, Robert wrote ‘Shackled Continent’, an examination of Africa’s economic challenges, followed by ‘Borderless Economics‘, which explores global migration and the movement of talent. His journalism has earned the Queen’s English Society’s Annual Award for Fine Writing and the Foreign Press Association’s Award for Best Economic Story of the Year. He is also Chair of Trustees of The Economist Educational Foundation, supporting young people to think critically about current affairs.

Robert is a regular contributor to the BBC and CNN, providing measured analysis during major global events. Known for intellectual rigour and grounded insight, he brings an evidence-led perspective to discussions on power, policy and prosperity, making him a compelling voice at conferences and leadership forums.

Why Hire Robert Guest?

Robert equips leadership teams with a sharper understanding of how international economics, political instability and demographic change shape corporate strategy. Drawing on reporting from global capitals and boardrooms, he translates macroeconomic shifts into practical implications for growth, resilience and competitiveness. His sessions are structured, analytical and engaging, helping executives stress-test assumptions and plan confidently for uncertainty. For organisations navigating volatility, Robert provides context, foresight and disciplined thinking that supports better long-term decision-making.

Robert Guest’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Robert Guest’s inspiring career:

• 2025 – Appointed Chair of Trustees of The Economist Educational Foundation, guiding its strategic direction.
• 2023 – Promoted to Deputy Editor of The Economist, joining the senior editorial leadership team.
• 2016 – Served as Foreign Editor, overseeing the magazine’s global news coverage.
• 2011 – Published Borderless Economics, analysing migration and global labour mobility.
• 2009 – Wrote the Lexington column on US politics for The Economist.
• 2004 – Published Shackled Continent, examining Africa’s economic development.
• 2004 – Won Best Journalist at the Diageo Africa Business Reporting Awards.