Leadership Expert, Founder of Global Tolerance, Pause for Thought Contributor on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show & Blogger for Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur Magazine & Huffington Post
Simon Cohen’s Biography:
Simon Cohen is a British entrepreneur, broadcaster and thought leader best known as the founder of Global Tolerance, an organisation created to help businesses build more compassionate and emotionally intelligent workplace cultures. Since launching the company in 2003, Simon has become widely recognised for challenging traditional ideas around leadership, wellbeing and human connection in business. His reputation grew significantly after becoming the first business owner in the United Kingdom to place his entire agency on a year-long company sabbatical, an ambitious move that attracted national attention for its bold approach to workplace culture and trust. Simon is also known for his engaging storytelling, humour and emotionally driven presentations, which combine practical business insight with deeply personal experiences. His ability to connect with audiences on leadership, resilience and culture is why organisations hire him as a keynote speaker.
Simon’s career has centred on redefining how businesses treat people, both internally and externally. Through Global Tolerance, he developed a consultancy focused on helping organisations improve communication, empathy and workplace relationships. His work gained international recognition after delivering his keynote presentation ‘Challenging Conventional Wisdom’, which became the most popular talk on Trendhunter for six consecutive months. Alongside his consultancy work, Simon established himself as a respected broadcaster and commentator. He became a regular contributor to the ‘Pause for Thought’ segment on BBC Radio 2’s Chris Evans Breakfast Show, where he shared reflective and uplifting stories with millions of listeners across the United Kingdom. His speaking style blends commercial experience with authenticity, allowing audiences to relate to both his successes and challenges.
Simon’s profile as a speaker has continued to grow through high-profile appearances, conference presentations and media contributions. In 2022, he was selected as a keynote presenter for the Boarding Schools’ Association Annual Conference for Heads at Oxford Town Hall, reflecting the broad appeal of his message beyond the corporate sector. His talks frequently focus on resilience, emotional intelligence, mental wellbeing and purpose-driven leadership, themes that resonate strongly with modern organisations navigating cultural change. Simon is widely praised for delivering presentations that are both motivational and commercially relevant, using humour, honesty and practical examples to inspire lasting behavioural change among audiences.
Why Hire Simon Cohen?
Simon is recognised for his wide influence on conversations around leadership and workplace wellbeing. His experiences as an entrepreneur, broadcaster and culture specialist allow him to speak with credibility across a range of sectors. Event organisers value Simon for his warmth, relatability and ability to engage audiences with genuine emotion while still delivering actionable insight. His presentations are memorable because they balance humour with vulnerability, making complex topics accessible and impactful. Whether addressing senior executives, educators or emerging leaders, Simon delivers keynote speeches that challenge conventional thinking and encourage audiences to lead with greater empathy, courage and humanity.
Simon Cohen’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Simon Cohen’s remarkable career:
- 2022 – Keynote presenter for the Boarding Schools’ Association Annual Conference for Heads at Oxford Town Hall
- 2013 First business owner in the United Kingdom to place his entire agency on a year-long company sabbatical
- 2013 – “Pause for Thought” contributor on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show for BBC Radio 2
- 2009 – Delivered a keynote presentation titled “Challenging Conventional Wisdom,” which ranked as the most popular talk on Trendhunter for six consecutive months
- 2003 – Founded Global Tolerance
Videos
Simon Cohen’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Simon Cohen is an inspiring keynote speaker known for delivering powerful and emotionally engaging talks on leadership, resilience and human connection. Combining humour, authenticity and practical insight, Simon leaves audiences motivated to challenge conventional thinking and create more compassionate cultures.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Simon Cohen’s Official Keynote Topics:
- How to speak out
- Reimagining the ‘new normal’
- How to succeed
- Values at Work
- Living Well
How Much Does Simon Cohen Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Simon Cohen?
Simon Cohen’s speaking fees vary depending on the event format, location, duration and level of preparation required. For an accurate quote, please share your event date, location and brief with an official booking agent.