About Us My Favourites JLA Showcases Speakers Breakfasts Real Variety Show Blog Contact Us Imran YusufJLA Real Variety Show I value JLA's opinion - they have genuine knowledge of the speakers they represent CIPD Agent Recommendations JLA provide impartial advice on who best fits your event brief, but we’re not afraid to steer you in the direction of our tried and tested favourites. In this section our agents describe their own impressions from working with individual speakers, presenters and performers. View by agent or category, and look out for recommendations on speaker or artist records. Search Recommendations by Section Conference Speakers Presenters After Dinner Speakers Performers All Agent Recommendations Abandoman Comedy Hip-hop Improv by Danny Lee I put Abandoman in front of one usually reserved technology crowd, and by the end of the evening the CEO was dancing on the table screaming for an encore. The foremost (and only) Irish ‘hip-hop improv’ act are a must for any audience with even the tiniest capacity for fun. Book them now! Lucy Adams Former HR Director, BBC by Adam Harkness Thanks to her experience in turbulent times at the BBC, Lucy's speech is incredibly insightful – but she also has a natural ability to engage the room. The self-confessed "recovering HR director" even manages to inject a sense of fun. Whether she's asked to talk about the scourge of annual appraisals or the challenges of virtual teams, you will come away with a fresh perspective. Rt Hon Lord (Andrew) Adonis Chair, National Infrastructure Commission by Allan Grant Andrew has a brain the size of planet – condensing swathes of information into a speech that’s always tight to the brief and laced with humour. I've seen him speak on topics from infrastructure and education to collaboration. You can feel delegates paying close attention: they know they’re getting an inside view from one of the most influential policy makers in Westminster. Terry Alderton Comedian & Actor by Andy Hickman Forget he was in Eastenders, Terry’s comedy persona is as far from soaps as you can get. It’s an earthquake of energy, random accents and disembodied catchphrases verging on performance art. (But unlike performance art, he’s belly-achingly funny.) Terry is an original, capable of conquering any crowd. Buzz Aldrin Pioneering American Astronaut by Andrew Stoney You can't fail to feel excited and honoured to listen to Buzz. He's a living legend and a true pioneer, who's dedicated his life to space exploration. 45 years after walking on the moon he's still amazingly sprightly, with his sights firmly set on colonising Mars. In my view any audience would be inspired by Buzz's story – and transfixed by his vision of the future. Clare Balding Channel 4 Racing, BT Sport by Anke Schuster Wearing her conference presenter hat Clare brings a lightness of touch that gets the best out of anyone, from guest stars to business types. She makes it so easy for them to convey their own struggles and achievements – and she’s a joy to have on your team. John Barrowman Actor & Presenter by Sinead McGowan John has the charm of Captain Jack, the professionalism of a primetime presenter and the talent to belt out a show tune - all good reasons to book him. He flirts with everyone and takes some beating if you’re looking for an injection of showbiz glitz. Beardyman Human Beatbox by Simon King Beardyman isn’t just possessed of a rare skill, he’s a truly versatile performer. He can silence a room in awe, have them tap their feet and stand to applaud all within five minutes. I've watched him evolve from gifted beatboxer into a headline star – embracing comedy and unbelievable vocal gymnastics. Angellica Bell The One Show by Sarah Blake Some clients would only consider Angellica for young audiences, but she's much more versatile than that. She can move seamlessly between fun and serious, she really holds the audience and she’s refreshingly flexible with things like timings and scripts. Caspar Berry Former Poker Pro by Tom Mclaughlin In his conference speech Caspar teaches you about probability and risk. After dinner he gives you a taste of the nerve tingling thrills of poker – complete with steely expressions, fingers tapping on chips and eyes darting around to detect a hint of weakness in others. It’s fabulous to see him generate so much excitement without anyone risking a bean of their own money! Professor David Blanchflower Professor of Economics, Dartmouth College by Ben Arnold There are economists, forecasters and analysts – and then there's Danny. He’s straight talking, unafraid to cover ground many fear to tread, and he cuts through the gamesmanship. I particularly like his analogy about economic recovery: “It’s like visiting the doctor. Everyone wants to know when they’ll get better, but the best we can do is monitor progress and treat accordingly.” Rt Hon Lord (David) Blunkett Former Home Secretary by Jeremy Frewer Whatever your own political persuasion, when you listen to David you realise his conviction is utterly genuine. Add the fact that he's been blind since birth, and his achievements begin to hit home. But what might really surprise you is the warmth, the wealth of anecdotes and a delightful sense of humour. Rachel Botsman Author, What’s Mine is Yours by Barbara de Lacy Not only have Rachel’s book and ideas helped me make lifestyle choices, she’s also got some absolutely essential advice for twenty-first century businesses. Her speeches are peppered with nuggets that you’ll find yourself repeating to friends and colleagues for days to come. 200,000 views within two weeks of her latest TED Global talk going online say it all. Jeremy Bowen BBC Middle East Editor by Sinead McGowan Jeremy tells awesome stories with such wry humour that it makes for a brilliantly entertaining and surprisingly ‘corporate’ speech. His experiences in 17 war zones will have you on the edge of your seat, his geopolitical insight is relevant for any multinational business – and his approach to challenges in the field, looking after and motivating his team, will resonate with everyone. Gyles Brandreth Broadcaster & Writer by Allan Grant It’s a cliché, but Gyles’ personality alone can fill a room. He really enjoys what he does and it shows. Clients love him: he’s a delight to work with, he adapts to any situation, and most importantly he’s a terrific raconteur. Kevin Bridges Scottish Standup Star by Barbara de Lacy Much has been made of Kevin’s age but it’s still difficult to believe he’s so young when you see him perform. He’s got confidence in spades, and event producers love him because he’s so accommodating and mature. I love his cheeky grin as he waits for the audience to catch up with his punchline. Derren Brown Mind Control, Svengali by Barbara de Lacy When you’re lucky enough to stumble on a free date between filming and touring, Derren’s an absolute pleasure to work with. Production is blissfully simple in any space, and he really understands corporate audiences. You end up with a fast-paced, hugely entertaining show which will baffle everyone! Guy Browning Director, Smokehouse by Emily Collier In the words of one client, listening to Guy is “like being at The Comedy Store, but with a business message!” I’ve seen him have a group of stockbrokers on their feet impersonating athletes, pondering moral queries and roaring with laughter at his advice on how to manage your boss. They were putty in a master’s hands! Todd Buchholz Former White House Director for Economic Policy by Simon King Todd is not the brash, over-bearing financier his Wall Street to White House CV suggests. He uses a host of unconventional analogies to explain what’s going on in the markets, geopolitics and economics. Mix this with unbridled enthusiasm for business, sharp intelligence and delivery bordering on stand-up. You can expect lessons from history, politics and showbusiness. William Butler-Adams CEO, Brompton Bicycles Ltd by Danny Lee Bounding onstage, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're watching a cross between Boris Johnson and Willy Wonka (minus the Oompa Loompas). But there's more to WBA than meets the eye. As he extols the virtues of British engineering, you feel a sense of pride - not just about where we've been, but where we're going. Maybe the future of manufacturing isn't so bleak after all! Ed Byrne Mock The Week by Jamie Curtis Ed has a remarkable ability to judge audiences. Whatever mood you’re in before he walks on, you’ll be laughing at yourself by the end – and his jokes will follow you around the next day. I won’t be able to think about pillow talk in quite the same way ever again! Simon Calver Former Chief Executive, LOVEFiLM by Barbara de Lacy Simon’s LoveStory speech, with a film illustrating each early year of the business, demonstrates the ideals he still sticks to - you must be the culture of your business, and you mustn’t compromise or delegate that responsibility. Listening to him, you know he practises as he preaches: rewarding customers, continually challenging his people and developing relationships wherever he sees potential. Alastair Campbell New Labour’s Communications Director by Allan Grant I love how Alastair balances humour, gossip and serious messages. The story about the Deputy PM punching an egg-throwing voter is typical: Alastair gets a call from Prezza (in pantomime Yorkshire): "Hello… Errr… I've just thumped someone." After telling us what happened, he gives the audience a genuine insight into how to manage a potential PR disaster. It's a fantastic listen. Alan Carr Chatty Man by Allan Grant Offstage Alan is like his onscreen persona: down to earth, self-deprecating and wickedly funny. But he really delivers onstage. His opening routine intersperses topical gags with industry-specific material, and his energy is unrelenting. I can't recommend him highly enough. Alan Chambers Expedition Leader by Barbara de Lacy When you first meet Alan his expression is so deadpan it’s hard to believe he motivates people in such large numbers. See him in front of an audience and he’s utterly captivating. You suddenly realise how he’s able to lead groups of big egos through the harshest environments in the world. And you’ve got to admire a man who takes his 10-year old son on a trip to the North Pole! Dan Cobley Former MD, Google UK and Ireland by Ana Smolaka To say Dan has his finger on the pulse of technology is an understatement. His insights into what we should expect in our homes and businesses in the future are truly thought provoking – as is his advice on how to harness current technology to make a workplace thrive. You’re watching an expert at the top of his game, with a wonderfully accessible and humorous presentation style. Rt Hon Lord (Sebastian) Coe President, IAAF & Chairman, London Olympic Games by Jeremy Frewer Listening to Seb you can’t help recall your own favourite moment from London 2012 - be it Super Saturday, the Gamesmakers or Mo Farah winning a second gold. When you hear the behind-the-scenes stories and take in the true scale of the project, you realise quite how much Seb and his team achieved. He’s not just a great leader – he’s also an awesome communicator. Reverend Richard Coles Pop Star Turned Curate by Jeremy Frewer Richard's speech is one of the warmest I’ve heard in 10 years at JLA. After a glance back to his days as a pop star, he describes the shock of wearing cassocks and sharing a dormitory at the age of 40. If you’re a fan of Rev. (for which he is the inspiration), Richard will leave you in fits of giggles. Sean Collins Canadian Comedian by Simon King Offering a delightful deadpan take on British quirks, Sean is a cut above the average circuit comedian. He shares his amazement at how readily we accept most things don't work (transport, people etc), his amusement at foreigners' expectations and his daily frustrations with his family. He hits the mark with any crowd, from rowdy to reserved. Nina Conti Comedian & Ventriloquist by Sinead McGowan You’re in for a treat with Nina, particularly if it’s one of your colleagues that gets pulled up onstage. With a wealth of characters at her fingertips it’s always going to be a fun show. I’m constantly amazed at her skill as well as her quick wit – especially when Monkey sings Time to Say Goodbye! Hal Cruttenden Comedian, Actor & Writer by Allan Grant Hal's comedy is perfect for corporate audiences. He's instantly endearing - with McIntyre-style energy, stage presence (and campness) along with wonderfully self deprecating put-downs. I’m still laughing at the gag about ignoring his child's schooling because she didn't ask him about his own day. Jamie Cullum Jazz Singer-Pianist by Allan Grant The first thing you notice working with Jamie is how down to earth he is – there’s no ‘white lilies and champagne’ nonsense on his rider! But onstage his star status comes across, powering through a mix of covers and original material. At Jamie’s last gig for me he even invited guests to sing with him! BJ Cunningham Serial Entrepreneur by Andy Hickman It begins as a battery of anecdotes, delivered with a mischievous sense of humour. Then, amid jaw dropping and laughter, a rallying cry emerges: leap at every opportunity, don’t fear the Goliaths who obstruct your path, and always come back fighting. As well as all that, his almost spiritual distillation of the concept of ‘brand’ will have you throwing your old definition into the dustbin. Karen Darke Para-cyclist & Mountaineer by Allan Grant Karen’s achievements since her accident stretch from extreme adventure to elite sport. If the basic premise of a motivational speech is to inspire you to adapt to the situation and scale new heights, it never feels more real than when listening to Karen. She’s been though such a horrific chain of events, yet remains defiantly positive. It feels like a real privilege to hear her story. Andrew Davis Social Media Strategist by Sarah Blake Andrew cuts through the gimmickry and helps you create a proper social media strategy. As well as waxing lyrical on how to create great content, he encourages you to pin down elusive ROI. But for me Andrew’s real magic is the way he equips you with the tools and confidence to keep making the right decisions - even when the game changes all over again. Fraser Doherty Founder, SuperJam by Jeremy Frewer With his big smile and positive energy, Fraser radiates charm. You can’t help smiling back when he talks about selling jam door to door, and laughing out loud at the thought that his Grandma has no idea of the intellectual property value of her recipes. SuperJam seems to embody Fraser’s own character: authentic, unpretentious and with no added preservatives! Matt Edmondson Radio 1 Presenter by Oliver Shermer If you want to inject energy into awards, the diminutive Radio 1 presenter is well worth considering. He has natural enthusiasm, he makes everyone feel relaxed and he leads proceedings without ever succumbing to the temptation of making it all about him. Huw Edwards Lead Anchor, BBC TV News by Allan Grant Live events give Huw an opportunity to display a wicked sense of humour. Unsurprisingly, he’s quick to a master the brief; what’s extraordinary is the ease with which he mixes serious messages with funny anecdotes – and his ability to make audiences feel they’re attending a very special occasion Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones ‘The Black Farmer’ by Allan Grant For me Wilfred is the perfect speaker. He isn’t one of those entrepreneurs who just dish up clichés. His is a personal story, full of lessons for delegates to take away and put into practice. The methods Wilfred used to take The Black Farmer from a niche, local product to an everyday supermarket brand are a ‘must-hear’ for any business that wants to grow. Sir Ranulph Fiennes The Greatest Living Explorer by Jeremy Frewer Fiennes is a living legend. Behind the stiff upper lip and glorious wit is one of the most inspiring leaders you could ever encounter. He shows how his close-knit teams stay ahead of the competition by evaluating the terrain, challenging the status quo and embracing technology. The business analogy is obvious – the effect Ran has on audiences (of any nationality) is a joy to behold. Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein Associate Editor, The Times by Rory Wilson Danny has his audience in stitches with his collection of ‘Rules for Politics.’ I especially like the analogy with hotel towels – and what MPs can learn from footballers. As you’d expect, he also provides a great insight into who’s up to what (and why) in the Westminster village. As much of a joy to watch as he is to work with, Daniel has heads bobbing in agreement right from the off. Ben Fogle The Accidental Adventurer by Andrew Stoney It’s hard to imagine that Ben fell into being an adventurer by accident. As he talks about his projects, what becomes clear is his passion and determination – as well as his boundless natural charm. He leaves you thinking that one day you might be able to row across the Atlantic yourself! Matt Forde Comedian & Presenter by Barbara de Lacy Recreating the House of Commons onstage might not sound like everybody’s cup of tea, but Matt pulls it off. Part football obsessive, part PMQs geek, he’s just as much at home dishing out topical stand-up as interviewing George Galloway – and his Ed Miliband impression is uncanny. Frank Bruno and Garry Richardson Former Heavyweight World Champion, BBC Radio sports presenter by Danny Lee If you’re after a big sports star, they don't come much bigger than Bruno. When a former heavyweight World Champion walks into the room it tends to focus the mind. With Garry Richardson as the interviewer, you get a story of extraordinary highs and lows – with a lot of laughs thrown in. Stéphane Garelli Professor, IMD by Ben Arnold While many economic speakers start by bracing you for whatever gloomy predictions they’re about to deliver, Stephane engages you with a real glint in his eye. Describing the post-recession world as “unusually desynchronised” he guides delegates through each region’s competitiveness, helping to join the dots in a constantly changing business landscape. Lesley Garrett Soprano & West End Star by Rebecca Parker Smith Lesley is charming and easy to work with – and she delivers a blistering thirty minutes of entertainment. After her performance she mingles with guests and signs autographs – last time in Jersey we had to drag her away! Bob Geldof Campaigner & Businessman by Emily Collier When Bob took to the stage, even the most serious looking business types pressed forward to listen. It's a cliché to describe a speaker having an audience 'spellbound' - but Bob's such a natural storyteller that he held their attention effortlessly, speaking without notes and from the heart. Afterwards he posed for selfies with everyone, including the event organisers!” PY Gerbeau Visiting Professor, LBS & Imperial College by Sarah Blake Despite the fact that he lectures MBA students, there’s no jargon with PY. In his own disarming way, he makes it crystal clear that people are the most important asset in any organisation – so now more than ever, managers need to lead by example. This is real insight from a seasoned CEO and recovery expert. His messages will resonate with everyone. Will Gompertz BBC Arts Editor by Ana Smolaka Will challenges any perceptions of the artistic world as a breeding ground for tormented, penniless outcasts. Instead he describes the most celebrated exponents as entrepreneurs with a sharp understanding of the zeitgeist. Along with some genuinely hilarious stories, Will’s message to business is crystal clear: to survive and thrive, we must all begin to think like artists. Ellie Goulding Singer-songwriter by Ben Arnold Performing her own hits from Burn to Starry Eyed via Your Song, Ellie and her band delivered a mesmerising 40-minute show. Chatting with the audience and sharing anecdotes in between numbers, she had my client and all his guests entranced - hanging on her every word. Professor A.C. Grayling Master, New College of the Humanities by Simon King The word 'philosopher' conjures up images of brooding pretension or high-minded aloofness. Anthony conforms to neither stereotype. He's down-to-earth, witty and understandable. He makes abstract concepts like fairness and ethics genuinely thought-provoking – especially for organisations looking to define their place in the lives of employees and customers. Professor Germaine Greer Writer & Academic by Andy Hickman Once over the thrill of meeting a feminist legend, you realise Germaine is an authority on anything from ageing to Australia. She illuminates her argument with casually recalled quotes, taking on lofty concepts with warmth and self-deprecating humour. She manages to cut through the cacophony of politically correct discourse with a bluntness and common sense you just can’t ignore. Bill Grimsey Author & Former Retail CEO by Simon King Bill has the common touch you might expect from one of the few bosses to go from storeroom to boardroom. When his 4-year old granddaughter pleaded for an iPad, he began to imagine how she’ll be served by retailers of the future. He now gives an unsentimental insider’s view of the commercial realities they face - not forgetting the social side of the high street that affects us all. Robert Guest Foreign Editor, The Economist by Hannah Rogers The breadth of Robert's insight is so impressive. When I last saw him he pulled together anecdotes and analysis on the US, China and Russia – then related their economic policies to the situation in the UK. It made for some striking (and entertaining) contrasts. He takes big and contentious issues and explores their impact in a way that’s immediately relevant and engaging. Tim Harford Financial Times’ Undercover Economist by Jamie Curtis The Undercover Economist was the first book I read when I joined JLA – since then I’ve never failed to be impressed by Tim. He makes you look at everything differently. Hearing his new speech on Big Data was a revelation: you realise the challenge is not to get the biggest data set, but the right data! He has a knack for making the seemingly impenetrable blissfully clear. Austin Healey Rugby Legend, Businessman & Dancer by Tom Mclaughlin When I last worked with Austin the audience loved the travel stories he’d put together for his intro, the production team loved 28 awards being presented bang on time and the client loved the fact that their briefing had been followed to a tee. They were also chuffed he did a ‘Strictly’ twirl to kick the evening off! Sir Chris Hoy Six-Time Gold Medal-winning Track Cyclist by Anke Schuster You rarely see an audience as awestruck as they are when Chris walks onstage. In an age full of so-called legends, he’s one of the few I work with who truly deserves the accolade - both for his achievements and the reaction he inspires. He exudes determination and charm, and despite all the medals his feet are still very firmly on the ground. He’s an inspiration, in every sense. John Humphrys Today, Mastermind by Tom Mclaughlin The nation's foremost interviewer brings a lighter touch than you might imagine when chairing company or industry conferences or hosting awards ceremonies. His gravitas and credibility however mean that delegates can be assured that their event is not being overtly stage managed nor participants spoon fed - and woe betide anyone who might think that is the case. Alex Hunter Brand & Customer Loyalty Expert by Hannah Rogers Alex speaks with real authority on the successes (and setbacks) of online business, and how peer-to-peer collaboration is changing the consumer experience. His own enthusiasm onstage perfectly echoes his argument that an ability to build relationships with customers online and make them care is what makes you stand out in the increasingly competitive digital space. Colin Jackson Champion Hurdler by Mark Truman Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! Leo Johnson Co-Presenter, FutureProofing by Sinead McGowan Leo convinces you straight away of the importance of ‘future-proofing.’ It’s no mean feat to marry business priorities with the demands of sustainability. He does it with boundless Johnson charm, positivity and real insight backed up by fascinating case studies. I’ve never seen a more entertaining and thought provoking way to set out the challenges and eye up the possible solutions. Alex Jones The One Show by Sarah Blake At the last event Alex did for me she stayed on site throughout the day, charmed everyone involved, looked gorgeous and did a fabulous job controlling a very excitable room. She’s a wonderful Welsh whirlwind. Milton Jones The Very World of Milton Jones by Andrew Stoney We’ve worked with Milton for years and it’s great to see him hit the big time. His one-liners are among the best. I’ve seen an entire Great Room captivated, holding on for the next perfectly crafted joke. Sometimes he doesn't even finish the gag – he just leaves you to fill in the gaps. An absolute genius. Russell Kane Edinburgh Award-winning Comedian by Emily Collier Russell drops in hilarious quips throughout the evening. He's intelligent and respectful, but he’s also playful and cheeky – it’s very funny to see him put off his stride whenever a stunning looking woman joins him onstage. The audience is onside for the duration. Natasha Kaplinsky News Presenter by Barbara de Lacy Natasha brings a touch of glamour to the proceedings and dazzles audience and interviewees alike. I’ve seen her equally at home dissecting the prospects for UK Plc with Sir Martin Sorrell as she was entertaining midwives at their awards – she never ever seems to get flustered. Kevin Keegan Former England Captain & Manager by Jeremy Lee Kevin’s talent for storytelling catches audiences by surprise. This is the tale of a boy from Doncaster who suddenly has the world at his feet, complete with the funniest slide show you’ve ever seen. There’s plenty of nostalgia, but it’s also uplifting – even if you don’t have an ounce of interest in football. Myleene Klass Musician & Presenter by Damian Cotter Myleene is a woman of many talents, and she’s wonderfully accommodating. If it’s appropriate for the event, she’s happy to combine her presenting and musical skills. More than that, she creates genuine warmth the moment she steps onstage. Angela Lamont Technology & Science Presenter by Ben Arnold I’m constantly impressed with Angela’s industriousness. She’s a fastidious researcher and she always seems to have a genuine interest in the topic. My clients re-book her again and again – that says everything. Lauren Laverne 6 Music by Ana Smolaka As well as having a finger on the pulse of current trends, what defines Lauren as an awards host is her warmth. She charms organisers, sponsors and most importantly the audience - and makes every winner feel that it’s their moment.And her Sunderland accent can’t fail to endear her to everyone! Magnus Lindkvist Trendspotter and Futurist by Jeremy Lee With a dry Nordic dry wit and a multimedia presentation that makes you feel like you’re in a theatre, Magnus challenges our way of thinking about the future. While evolving technologies will have a huge impact, from ‘nanobots’ to new sources of energy, he turns many of our assumptions on their head and paints a reassuring picture of a human race confidently adapting to change. John Lloyd Producer, QI, Blackadder by Danny Lee It’s a mystery why the viewing public isn’t given a chance to see that John’s at least as funny as the stars he’s nurtured. Not only is he the man behind Bean and Blackadder, he also co-wrote After Liff with Douglas Adams. Besides the gags, John is so inspiring when he talks about QI changing the way we learn. Fred MacAulay Scottish Comedian & Radio Host by Sarah Blake Fred is a national treasure in Scotland, but one of my London-based clients wasn't familiar with him and had always booked a name. Having worked with Fred for years I promised he would storm their awards and respect their senior audience. The day after the event the client declared that he’d delivered 100% – “and it reflected brilliantly on the organisers!” Dr Pippa Malmgren WEF ‘Global Leader for Tomorrow’ by Jeremy Lee In uncertain times Pippa provides real nuggets of wisdom about the global economy. It's fascinating to listen to someone who talks with such fluency about the factors that are having an impact on just about everything we buy and sell. You walk away feeling much better informed and a little bit smug about the inside knowledge you've gleaned. Stephen Mangan Actor & Guest Host by Danny Lee The best awards host I've seen all year. If ‘briefability’ were a real word then Stephen has it in spades. The fact that the first winner of the evening ran up to the stage and greeted him with a double high five showed how brilliantly Stephen had immersed himself in the event. Baroness Eliza Manningham-Buller Head of MI5 2002-2007 by Oliver Shermer Leadership isn't just something Eliza talks about; it's there in everything she does. She handles questions brilliantly, her tone is steady and considered, and she holds the room in a way that only someone who’s used to being listened to can. In fact the former MI5 boss is disarmingly approachable, witty and warm (and not at all scary). Paul Mason Author, Postcapitalism & Former Economics Editor by Rory Wilson Paul makes economics and politics personal. Whether he’s exploring the impact of technology on democracy or the future of UK manufacturing, he contextualises his subject in a way that moves it from theory to real life cause and effect. But what I like most about Paul is that he's never afraid to provoke debate and state his own position! Professor Mariana Mazzucato Professor, Economics of Innovation by Barbara de Lacy Listening to Mariana is exhilarating and frustrating; because her ideas seem simple and ingenious, but governments seem resistant to embrace them. Her background (Italian-born, US-educated, London-based) gives her a rare perspective, and she is constantly on the move – examples from each country she visits make their way into her next presentation. Steph McGovern Business, BBC Breakfast by Sarah Blake Steph’s a perfect combination of ‘plugged in’ and ‘credible’ – while remaining utterly down to earth. I’ve seen her demystify financial markets for grey-suited conference delegates and whoop up a roomful of excited awards contenders. It’s a fabulous sight to witness. I’m certain Ms McGovern’s profile is on a swift upward trajectory… Geoff Miller Former ECB Chairman of Selectors by Andrew Stoney With perfect comic timing Geoff tells of his tussles with some of the greats of the game. I’ve watched an audience of 1000 collapse in laughter when he described his lack of athleticism between the wickets. Even if you don’t like cricket, if you appreciate self-deprecating humour you’ll love Geoff Miller. Ian Moore Mod Comedian by Sarah Blake Ian is proving an utterly safe pair of hands. I’ve seen him charm and entertain a big room as well as, if not better than any ‘celebrity’ comic. Sometimes it can be tense watching a corporate audience watching someone they don’t know – with Ian, the client and I were completely relaxed throughout. Michael Mosley Producer & Presenter by Emily Collier Michael’s tricky to pigeon-hole because has so many strings to his bow, from popular science and technological innovation to NHS reforms. I always enjoy working with him – he takes the time to understand the background and really gets involved with the client. Michael even based one of his TV shows on an idea that stemmed from an event, so it’s clearly mutually beneficial! Andrew Neil Media Owner & Broadcaster by Jeremy Frewer Andrew's knowledge of business and politics is encyclopaedic. He not only ‘gets’ speaking briefs, he’s also extremely useful to have onside. And he runs a very tight ship as a moderator, lightening the mood whenever he finds the opportunity. The result is that Andrew’s sessions become the creative spaces they’re meant to be – a million miles from Death by PowerPoint. James Nesbitt Actor by Andrew Stoney Jimmy is one of the most easy-going hosts. Nothing is too much trouble. He spends time learning about the event, then works with his scriptwriter to put together a funny and relevant intro. He’s professional and utterly charming. Greg Nugent Brand, Marketing & Culture Director, London 2012 by Paul Warran Greg’s the man who coined one of the defining terms of the London Olympics: the ‘Gamesmakers.’ It’s fascinating to hear him compare the strategies behind 2012 with his experience at Eurostar and the US Presidential campaign. Hismessage of trust and belief is honest and simple – but what stands out is his passion, his mastery of complex data and his sheer communication skills. Dara O Briain Mock the Week by Tom Mclaughlin We’re often asked for a “safe, but edgy” name – someone sidesplittingly funny who will understand the audience, respect the event and follow the brief. Dara invariably shoots to the top of that list because he nails it time and again. He loves delving into other walks of life and coming up with killer industry gags. Isabel Oakeshott Former Sunday Times Political Editor by Hannah Rogers As a former Times Political Editor, Isabel has a true insider's perspective on the policies and personalities that shape our politics. At the event I attended her candour really set her apart from other speakers, winning everyone over with nuanced and persuasive answers. She'd clearly worked out how to relate her expertise to the concerns of the audience. Mark Ormrod Royal Marine Triple Amputee by Paul Warran The first thing to strike you about Mark is his resilience and humour. You’ll catch yourself laughing even as he describes retreating from the scene of the bomb blast, and wincing when he recalls standing on his prosthetic limbs forthe first time. The message is clear: measurable goals are the only way to overcome obstacles – whether in business or running across America. Paddy O’Connell Broadcasting House by Oliver Shermer Paddy exudes wonderful optimism at a time of spreading cynicism. He’s also a natural storyteller. What I like most is the cheeky glint in his eye - whether he’s talking about the joys of Eurovision or what’s it like to know that half your audience is only listening because they’re waiting for The Archers. Dawn O’Porter Presenter & Journalist by Georgia Sharp Dawn's the sort of person you want to spend hours nattering to, but that isn’t what makes her special. When I last worked with her there was a technical problem and she just powered on unperturbed with absolute cool – she has areal gift for putting organisers and audience at ease. Richard Parks Rugby Player Turned Adventurer by Oliver Shermer Despite his reputation as an aggressive rugby player, Richard comes across as a humble guy. His irrepressible enthusiasm for death-defying exploits for charity can’t fail to raise a smile. More importantly, the way he's turned career-ending injury into a source of motivation is a terrific lesson for anyone. Michael Pawlyn Architect & Innovator by Ben Arnold Not so much a futurist as one who’s actually helping shape the future, Michael shows what can happen when engineering and nature work in harmony to provide solutions to the seemingly impossible – like in his ground breaking Sahara Forest Project. He has a growing international reputation on the back of his TED speech, and he’s one of the few I could listen to again and again. Professor Steve Peters Consultant Psychiatrist by Mark Truman When Hoy, Wiggins and Pendleton all put their success down to one psychiatrist's mind management techniques, it doesn’t take a great leap to see that corporate audiences want to hear what they too can learn about their fears from Steve Peters. He’s known as a game changer. The question is, can you keep your inner chimp in its cage and perform under pressure??? Rt Hon Michael Portillo Broadcaster & Columnist by Anke Schuster Michael's charming, self-deprecating and always delivers the right blend of banter and content: it’s obvious he’s enjoying not being a politician. That said, he brings an enormous amount of heavyweight experience to bear – whether he’s facilitating a business debate, mapping out the geopolitical landscape at a conference, handing out industry awards or entertaining guests after dinner. Romesh Ranganathan Comedian by Danny Lee Romesh's onstage disdain for everyone and everything is utterly infectious. It's rare for someone playing the misanthrope to have so much charm, but he pulls off the perfect balance. His routine meanders over well-trodden paths, but every punch line feels fresh. Watch the audience roar their approval. Jay Rayner Writer, Presenter & Food Critic by Simon King Jay is everything you need in an after dinner speaker - perhaps it's years of entertaining dining companions. He’s eloquent, easy going and comes with a store of anecdotes about life as a restaurant critic (aka "going out to eat and writing smart-arsed things about it"). Jeffrey Robinson Author, The Laundrymen by Danny Lee Money laundering might not normally rate high as a source of entertainment, but Jeffrey's revelations about the more murky corners of the business world are absolutely gripping. With his New York comic’s delivery, he has audiences in the palm of his hand with every "You're not going to believe this…" story. David Rowan Editor-in-Chief, WIRED UK by Andrew Stoney If you want a speaker to provide a glimpse of what the future holds for your sector and your customers, David is for you. He sees himself as a storyteller, describing ways in which the world is rapidly changing and how technology is creating new opportunities for all businesses. But it comes with a warning: there are serious dangers if you ignore what’s happening around you. Stephen Sackur HARDtalk by Allan Grant I really enjoy working with Stephen. Though he's a hard-hitting journalist who interviews world leaders on a regular basis, he's incredibly affable and clearly ‘gets’ corporate events. It’s a given that he quickly gets on top of a tricky brief – what’s more unusual is that everything’s always so easy to arrange. Scott Seaborn Global Digital Strategy Director, Aimia & Creative Technologist by Oliver Shermer Perfectly appropriate for both up-to-the-minute techies and pencil-and-paper types, Scott quickly wins the audience’s respect with live demos and great video shorts. Above all he has a knack for holding onto the ‘human’ in a world of seemingly limitless technological possibilities – reminding us to focus on the useful and ‘personable’ as well as the spellbinding. Ken Segall Steve Jobs’ Creative Director at Apple by Oliver Shermer Ken’s understated delivery and wry smile might be what you'd expect from a man associated with the coolness of Apple. But it isn't a shallow speech about shiny electronic products; what his stories reveal about simplicity of both design and service goes to the core of how all businesses should operate. It’s magical to watch heads nod and confidence spread throughout the room. Juan Señor Business Presenter by Anke Schuster Every time I work with Juan he makes people’s lives easier. He puts clients’ minds at rest however tricky the brief, and he goes way beyond the call of duty. It feels like he’s one of the team working on the event, rather than the presenter. Lisa Snowdon Capital Breakfast Show by Anke Schuster Lisa is a joy to work with, both before the event and on the day. She hosts awards with enthusiasm, charm and bags of authority – a true professional! Debra Stephenson Impressionist & Actor by Damian Cotter When you book Debra you get Miranda Hart, Davina McCall, Anne Robinson and more into the bargain: she’s an excellent impressionist. More than that, she’s lovely to work with – fun, gracious, encouraging and glamorous. Daniel Tammet Real-life Rainman by Jeremy Lee Daniel failed at school. He's now a bestselling author, he speaks a dozen languages and he can visualise complex sums using just shapes and colours. When you hear him explain how he transfers these skills, you begin to realise everything can be seen through a different lens. Audiences come away inspired – thinking about ways to embrace change instead of fearing it. Hamish Taylor Former Travel & Banking CEO by Sarah Blake After proposing Hamish to one client, he immediately put together detailed examples of how he’d address their very exacting brief. He then delivered on it IN SPADES – giving delegates practical ideas for engaging their customers in a much more distinctive way. This has left me with an interesting challenge for the next event: now my client doesn’t believe anyone can top Hamish! The Lionels Classics Function Band by Ben Arnold Not only are Rich and his band some of the nicest musicians on the circuit, it’s plain to see they get a kick from entertaining corporate audiences. You don’t always find such genuine helpfulness and enthusiasm among covers band – and it really comes across both to organisers and guests. The Noise Next Door Improv Troupe by Sarah Blake I discovered this bunch at Edinburgh, the stand-out act in a strong year. Their quick wit can’t fail to impress - so it wasn’t surprising when they left the Real Variety Show audience wanting more. They’re fun, young, attention-grabbing and…. perhaps a little bit genius. Ian Thomas Game Ranger & Management Expert by Jeremy Lee Ian is one of the most captivating speakers I’ve ever seen. He’s not an actor, but nobody else can bring to life as vivid a picture of how lions behave - and then use it to demonstrate human teamwork. When he describes how a cub will chase a zebra knowing other members of the pride will join in, you can hear a pin drop. And you know the penny’s dropped too. Russell Watson Classical Cross-over Star by Jeremy Frewer Apart from Russell’s unquestionable talent and the inspiring way he’s dealt with cancer, what I admire most is his warmth and approachability. Though clearly at home on the world stage, he genuinely loves connecting with small corporate audiences – it only takes a quaver for Russell have you spellbound. Ellis Watson CEO, DC Thomson Publishing by Tom Mclaughlin If you want a speaker to spout the latest management theory, don't book Ellis. If you want enthusiasm and practical tips to equip your team for the challenge, you can’t do better. Ellis has been entrusted with turning around sizeable outfits, so when he talks about reigniting the passion in an organisation you know his words aren’t hot air. He really has been there and done it. Will Whitehorn Former President, Virgin Galactic by Oliver Shermer What’s so impressive about Will is how passionate he is about new ideas and innovation, combined with a steely focus on beating the competition! Listening to his story, you realise you're getting an insight into the dawn of mankind's next giant leap – it’s hugely inspiring. Josh Widdicombe The Last Leg by Emily Collier The fresh-faced young comic comes out with unexpectedly dry humour. It’s observational comedy at its best, which will have the audience reminiscing and laughing as if they’re all in on a private joke. Marc Woods Paralympic Gold Medallist by Sarah Blake If anyone can teach us a lesson about making the most of our circumstances it’s Marc. When he shows clips of the England team winning their gold medal, you can’t help but cheer as his teammate touches the finish line. When he explains just how everybody played their part, you can’t help but feel inspired. James Woudhuysen Innovation Forcaster by Georgia Sharp Sure, there must be obscure topics that James knows little about – but he has huge insight about stuff like energy storage, robotics, housing and GM foods. And he has a way of interrogating his subject that reveals connections missed by narrow specialists. It’s this that makes him a credible ‘futurist’ – taking wide research and placing it in context. And boy can he respond to a brief! Jane Young Digital Strategist by Tom Mclaughlin Jane has more commercial nous than you’ll find in a dozen business books. Where others get excited about what technology can do, her focus is on “Why are you doing this – does it help you achieve your objectives?” She applies the same informed common sense to the myriad pitfalls of social business: “It’s not just about getting a Facebook page and a twitter account.” Professor Marcus du Sautoy Mathematician, Broadcaster & Author by Danny Lee It's a wonderful thing when a seemingly dry subject is brought to life. As soon as he comes onstage Marcus grabs you, throwing out maths problems and then explaining where we’ve all gone wrong! It’s not new to say that maths is integral to everything, but Marcus goes way beyond platitudes and really gets down to the nitty gritty. Where was he when I needed him at school?!? Conference Speakers Buzz Aldrin Pioneering American Astronaut by Andrew Stoney You can't fail to feel excited and honoured to listen to Buzz. He's a living legend and a true pioneer, who's dedicated his life to space exploration. 45 years after walking on the moon he's still amazingly sprightly, with his sights firmly set on colonising Mars. In my view any audience would be inspired by Buzz's story – and transfixed by his vision of the future. BJ Cunningham Serial Entrepreneur by Andy Hickman It begins as a battery of anecdotes, delivered with a mischievous sense of humour. Then, amid jaw dropping and laughter, a rallying cry emerges: leap at every opportunity, don’t fear the Goliaths who obstruct your path, and always come back fighting. As well as all that, his almost spiritual distillation of the concept of ‘brand’ will have you throwing your old definition into the dustbin. Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones ‘The Black Farmer’ by Allan Grant For me Wilfred is the perfect speaker. He isn’t one of those entrepreneurs who just dish up clichés. His is a personal story, full of lessons for delegates to take away and put into practice. The methods Wilfred used to take The Black Farmer from a niche, local product to an everyday supermarket brand are a ‘must-hear’ for any business that wants to grow. Sir Ranulph Fiennes The Greatest Living Explorer by Jeremy Frewer Fiennes is a living legend. Behind the stiff upper lip and glorious wit is one of the most inspiring leaders you could ever encounter. He shows how his close-knit teams stay ahead of the competition by evaluating the terrain, challenging the status quo and embracing technology. The business analogy is obvious – the effect Ran has on audiences (of any nationality) is a joy to behold. Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein Associate Editor, The Times by Rory Wilson Danny has his audience in stitches with his collection of ‘Rules for Politics.’ I especially like the analogy with hotel towels – and what MPs can learn from footballers. As you’d expect, he also provides a great insight into who’s up to what (and why) in the Westminster village. As much of a joy to watch as he is to work with, Daniel has heads bobbing in agreement right from the off. Frank Bruno and Garry Richardson Former Heavyweight World Champion, BBC Radio sports presenter by Danny Lee If you’re after a big sports star, they don't come much bigger than Bruno. When a former heavyweight World Champion walks into the room it tends to focus the mind. With Garry Richardson as the interviewer, you get a story of extraordinary highs and lows – with a lot of laughs thrown in. Bob Geldof Campaigner & Businessman by Emily Collier When Bob took to the stage, even the most serious looking business types pressed forward to listen. It's a cliché to describe a speaker having an audience 'spellbound' - but Bob's such a natural storyteller that he held their attention effortlessly, speaking without notes and from the heart. Afterwards he posed for selfies with everyone, including the event organisers!” PY Gerbeau Visiting Professor, LBS & Imperial College by Sarah Blake Despite the fact that he lectures MBA students, there’s no jargon with PY. In his own disarming way, he makes it crystal clear that people are the most important asset in any organisation – so now more than ever, managers need to lead by example. This is real insight from a seasoned CEO and recovery expert. His messages will resonate with everyone. Professor Germaine Greer Writer & Academic by Andy Hickman Once over the thrill of meeting a feminist legend, you realise Germaine is an authority on anything from ageing to Australia. She illuminates her argument with casually recalled quotes, taking on lofty concepts with warmth and self-deprecating humour. She manages to cut through the cacophony of politically correct discourse with a bluntness and common sense you just can’t ignore. Bill Grimsey Author & Former Retail CEO by Simon King Bill has the common touch you might expect from one of the few bosses to go from storeroom to boardroom. When his 4-year old granddaughter pleaded for an iPad, he began to imagine how she’ll be served by retailers of the future. He now gives an unsentimental insider’s view of the commercial realities they face - not forgetting the social side of the high street that affects us all. Tim Harford Financial Times’ Undercover Economist by Jamie Curtis The Undercover Economist was the first book I read when I joined JLA – since then I’ve never failed to be impressed by Tim. He makes you look at everything differently. Hearing his new speech on Big Data was a revelation: you realise the challenge is not to get the biggest data set, but the right data! He has a knack for making the seemingly impenetrable blissfully clear. Colin Jackson Champion Hurdler by Mark Truman Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! Magnus Lindkvist Trendspotter and Futurist by Jeremy Lee With a dry Nordic dry wit and a multimedia presentation that makes you feel like you’re in a theatre, Magnus challenges our way of thinking about the future. While evolving technologies will have a huge impact, from ‘nanobots’ to new sources of energy, he turns many of our assumptions on their head and paints a reassuring picture of a human race confidently adapting to change. Baroness Eliza Manningham-Buller Head of MI5 2002-2007 by Oliver Shermer Leadership isn't just something Eliza talks about; it's there in everything she does. She handles questions brilliantly, her tone is steady and considered, and she holds the room in a way that only someone who’s used to being listened to can. In fact the former MI5 boss is disarmingly approachable, witty and warm (and not at all scary). Isabel Oakeshott Former Sunday Times Political Editor by Hannah Rogers As a former Times Political Editor, Isabel has a true insider's perspective on the policies and personalities that shape our politics. At the event I attended her candour really set her apart from other speakers, winning everyone over with nuanced and persuasive answers. She'd clearly worked out how to relate her expertise to the concerns of the audience. Professor Steve Peters Consultant Psychiatrist by Mark Truman When Hoy, Wiggins and Pendleton all put their success down to one psychiatrist's mind management techniques, it doesn’t take a great leap to see that corporate audiences want to hear what they too can learn about their fears from Steve Peters. He’s known as a game changer. The question is, can you keep your inner chimp in its cage and perform under pressure??? Scott Seaborn Global Digital Strategy Director, Aimia & Creative Technologist by Oliver Shermer Perfectly appropriate for both up-to-the-minute techies and pencil-and-paper types, Scott quickly wins the audience’s respect with live demos and great video shorts. Above all he has a knack for holding onto the ‘human’ in a world of seemingly limitless technological possibilities – reminding us to focus on the useful and ‘personable’ as well as the spellbinding. Ken Segall Steve Jobs’ Creative Director at Apple by Oliver Shermer Ken’s understated delivery and wry smile might be what you'd expect from a man associated with the coolness of Apple. But it isn't a shallow speech about shiny electronic products; what his stories reveal about simplicity of both design and service goes to the core of how all businesses should operate. It’s magical to watch heads nod and confidence spread throughout the room. Daniel Tammet Real-life Rainman by Jeremy Lee Daniel failed at school. He's now a bestselling author, he speaks a dozen languages and he can visualise complex sums using just shapes and colours. When you hear him explain how he transfers these skills, you begin to realise everything can be seen through a different lens. Audiences come away inspired – thinking about ways to embrace change instead of fearing it. Hamish Taylor Former Travel & Banking CEO by Sarah Blake After proposing Hamish to one client, he immediately put together detailed examples of how he’d address their very exacting brief. He then delivered on it IN SPADES – giving delegates practical ideas for engaging their customers in a much more distinctive way. This has left me with an interesting challenge for the next event: now my client doesn’t believe anyone can top Hamish! Ian Thomas Game Ranger & Management Expert by Jeremy Lee Ian is one of the most captivating speakers I’ve ever seen. He’s not an actor, but nobody else can bring to life as vivid a picture of how lions behave - and then use it to demonstrate human teamwork. When he describes how a cub will chase a zebra knowing other members of the pride will join in, you can hear a pin drop. And you know the penny’s dropped too. Will Whitehorn Former President, Virgin Galactic by Oliver Shermer What’s so impressive about Will is how passionate he is about new ideas and innovation, combined with a steely focus on beating the competition! Listening to his story, you realise you're getting an insight into the dawn of mankind's next giant leap – it’s hugely inspiring. James Woudhuysen Innovation Forcaster by Georgia Sharp Sure, there must be obscure topics that James knows little about – but he has huge insight about stuff like energy storage, robotics, housing and GM foods. And he has a way of interrogating his subject that reveals connections missed by narrow specialists. It’s this that makes him a credible ‘futurist’ – taking wide research and placing it in context. And boy can he respond to a brief! Jane Young Digital Strategist by Tom Mclaughlin Jane has more commercial nous than you’ll find in a dozen business books. Where others get excited about what technology can do, her focus is on “Why are you doing this – does it help you achieve your objectives?” She applies the same informed common sense to the myriad pitfalls of social business: “It’s not just about getting a Facebook page and a twitter account.” Professor Marcus du Sautoy Mathematician, Broadcaster & Author by Danny Lee It's a wonderful thing when a seemingly dry subject is brought to life. As soon as he comes onstage Marcus grabs you, throwing out maths problems and then explaining where we’ve all gone wrong! It’s not new to say that maths is integral to everything, but Marcus goes way beyond platitudes and really gets down to the nitty gritty. Where was he when I needed him at school?!? After Dinner Speakers Buzz Aldrin Pioneering American Astronaut by Andrew Stoney You can't fail to feel excited and honoured to listen to Buzz. He's a living legend and a true pioneer, who's dedicated his life to space exploration. 45 years after walking on the moon he's still amazingly sprightly, with his sights firmly set on colonising Mars. In my view any audience would be inspired by Buzz's story – and transfixed by his vision of the future. BJ Cunningham Serial Entrepreneur by Andy Hickman It begins as a battery of anecdotes, delivered with a mischievous sense of humour. Then, amid jaw dropping and laughter, a rallying cry emerges: leap at every opportunity, don’t fear the Goliaths who obstruct your path, and always come back fighting. As well as all that, his almost spiritual distillation of the concept of ‘brand’ will have you throwing your old definition into the dustbin. Huw Edwards Lead Anchor, BBC TV News by Allan Grant Live events give Huw an opportunity to display a wicked sense of humour. Unsurprisingly, he’s quick to a master the brief; what’s extraordinary is the ease with which he mixes serious messages with funny anecdotes – and his ability to make audiences feel they’re attending a very special occasion Sir Ranulph Fiennes The Greatest Living Explorer by Jeremy Frewer Fiennes is a living legend. Behind the stiff upper lip and glorious wit is one of the most inspiring leaders you could ever encounter. He shows how his close-knit teams stay ahead of the competition by evaluating the terrain, challenging the status quo and embracing technology. The business analogy is obvious – the effect Ran has on audiences (of any nationality) is a joy to behold. Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein Associate Editor, The Times by Rory Wilson Danny has his audience in stitches with his collection of ‘Rules for Politics.’ I especially like the analogy with hotel towels – and what MPs can learn from footballers. As you’d expect, he also provides a great insight into who’s up to what (and why) in the Westminster village. As much of a joy to watch as he is to work with, Daniel has heads bobbing in agreement right from the off. Frank Bruno and Garry Richardson Former Heavyweight World Champion, BBC Radio sports presenter by Danny Lee If you’re after a big sports star, they don't come much bigger than Bruno. When a former heavyweight World Champion walks into the room it tends to focus the mind. With Garry Richardson as the interviewer, you get a story of extraordinary highs and lows – with a lot of laughs thrown in. PY Gerbeau Visiting Professor, LBS & Imperial College by Sarah Blake Despite the fact that he lectures MBA students, there’s no jargon with PY. In his own disarming way, he makes it crystal clear that people are the most important asset in any organisation – so now more than ever, managers need to lead by example. This is real insight from a seasoned CEO and recovery expert. His messages will resonate with everyone. Will Gompertz BBC Arts Editor by Ana Smolaka Will challenges any perceptions of the artistic world as a breeding ground for tormented, penniless outcasts. Instead he describes the most celebrated exponents as entrepreneurs with a sharp understanding of the zeitgeist. Along with some genuinely hilarious stories, Will’s message to business is crystal clear: to survive and thrive, we must all begin to think like artists. Professor Germaine Greer Writer & Academic by Andy Hickman Once over the thrill of meeting a feminist legend, you realise Germaine is an authority on anything from ageing to Australia. She illuminates her argument with casually recalled quotes, taking on lofty concepts with warmth and self-deprecating humour. She manages to cut through the cacophony of politically correct discourse with a bluntness and common sense you just can’t ignore. Tim Harford Financial Times’ Undercover Economist by Jamie Curtis The Undercover Economist was the first book I read when I joined JLA – since then I’ve never failed to be impressed by Tim. He makes you look at everything differently. Hearing his new speech on Big Data was a revelation: you realise the challenge is not to get the biggest data set, but the right data! He has a knack for making the seemingly impenetrable blissfully clear. John Humphrys Today, Mastermind by Tom Mclaughlin The nation's foremost interviewer brings a lighter touch than you might imagine when chairing company or industry conferences or hosting awards ceremonies. His gravitas and credibility however mean that delegates can be assured that their event is not being overtly stage managed nor participants spoon fed - and woe betide anyone who might think that is the case. Colin Jackson Champion Hurdler by Mark Truman Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! James Woudhuysen Innovation Forcaster by Georgia Sharp Sure, there must be obscure topics that James knows little about – but he has huge insight about stuff like energy storage, robotics, housing and GM foods. And he has a way of interrogating his subject that reveals connections missed by narrow specialists. It’s this that makes him a credible ‘futurist’ – taking wide research and placing it in context. And boy can he respond to a brief! Professor Marcus du Sautoy Mathematician, Broadcaster & Author by Danny Lee It's a wonderful thing when a seemingly dry subject is brought to life. As soon as he comes onstage Marcus grabs you, throwing out maths problems and then explaining where we’ve all gone wrong! It’s not new to say that maths is integral to everything, but Marcus goes way beyond platitudes and really gets down to the nitty gritty. Where was he when I needed him at school?!? Presenters John Barrowman Actor & Presenter by Sinead McGowan John has the charm of Captain Jack, the professionalism of a primetime presenter and the talent to belt out a show tune - all good reasons to book him. He flirts with everyone and takes some beating if you’re looking for an injection of showbiz glitz. Angellica Bell The One Show by Sarah Blake Some clients would only consider Angellica for young audiences, but she's much more versatile than that. She can move seamlessly between fun and serious, she really holds the audience and she’s refreshingly flexible with things like timings and scripts. Guy Browning Director, Smokehouse by Emily Collier In the words of one client, listening to Guy is “like being at The Comedy Store, but with a business message!” I’ve seen him have a group of stockbrokers on their feet impersonating athletes, pondering moral queries and roaring with laughter at his advice on how to manage your boss. They were putty in a master’s hands! Matt Edmondson Radio 1 Presenter by Oliver Shermer If you want to inject energy into awards, the diminutive Radio 1 presenter is well worth considering. He has natural enthusiasm, he makes everyone feel relaxed and he leads proceedings without ever succumbing to the temptation of making it all about him. Huw Edwards Lead Anchor, BBC TV News by Allan Grant Live events give Huw an opportunity to display a wicked sense of humour. Unsurprisingly, he’s quick to a master the brief; what’s extraordinary is the ease with which he mixes serious messages with funny anecdotes – and his ability to make audiences feel they’re attending a very special occasion Will Gompertz BBC Arts Editor by Ana Smolaka Will challenges any perceptions of the artistic world as a breeding ground for tormented, penniless outcasts. Instead he describes the most celebrated exponents as entrepreneurs with a sharp understanding of the zeitgeist. Along with some genuinely hilarious stories, Will’s message to business is crystal clear: to survive and thrive, we must all begin to think like artists. John Humphrys Today, Mastermind by Tom Mclaughlin The nation's foremost interviewer brings a lighter touch than you might imagine when chairing company or industry conferences or hosting awards ceremonies. His gravitas and credibility however mean that delegates can be assured that their event is not being overtly stage managed nor participants spoon fed - and woe betide anyone who might think that is the case. Colin Jackson Champion Hurdler by Mark Truman Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! Alex Jones The One Show by Sarah Blake At the last event Alex did for me she stayed on site throughout the day, charmed everyone involved, looked gorgeous and did a fabulous job controlling a very excitable room. She’s a wonderful Welsh whirlwind. Russell Kane Edinburgh Award-winning Comedian by Emily Collier Russell drops in hilarious quips throughout the evening. He's intelligent and respectful, but he’s also playful and cheeky – it’s very funny to see him put off his stride whenever a stunning looking woman joins him onstage. The audience is onside for the duration. Natasha Kaplinsky News Presenter by Barbara de Lacy Natasha brings a touch of glamour to the proceedings and dazzles audience and interviewees alike. I’ve seen her equally at home dissecting the prospects for UK Plc with Sir Martin Sorrell as she was entertaining midwives at their awards – she never ever seems to get flustered. Isabel Oakeshott Former Sunday Times Political Editor by Hannah Rogers As a former Times Political Editor, Isabel has a true insider's perspective on the policies and personalities that shape our politics. At the event I attended her candour really set her apart from other speakers, winning everyone over with nuanced and persuasive answers. She'd clearly worked out how to relate her expertise to the concerns of the audience. Dawn O’Porter Presenter & Journalist by Georgia Sharp Dawn's the sort of person you want to spend hours nattering to, but that isn’t what makes her special. When I last worked with her there was a technical problem and she just powered on unperturbed with absolute cool – she has areal gift for putting organisers and audience at ease. Juan Señor Business Presenter by Anke Schuster Every time I work with Juan he makes people’s lives easier. He puts clients’ minds at rest however tricky the brief, and he goes way beyond the call of duty. It feels like he’s one of the team working on the event, rather than the presenter. Lisa Snowdon Capital Breakfast Show by Anke Schuster Lisa is a joy to work with, both before the event and on the day. She hosts awards with enthusiasm, charm and bags of authority – a true professional! Debra Stephenson Impressionist & Actor by Damian Cotter When you book Debra you get Miranda Hart, Davina McCall, Anne Robinson and more into the bargain: she’s an excellent impressionist. More than that, she’s lovely to work with – fun, gracious, encouraging and glamorous. Performers Terry Alderton Comedian & Actor by Andy Hickman Forget he was in Eastenders, Terry’s comedy persona is as far from soaps as you can get. It’s an earthquake of energy, random accents and disembodied catchphrases verging on performance art. (But unlike performance art, he’s belly-achingly funny.) Terry is an original, capable of conquering any crowd. Jamie Cullum Jazz Singer-Pianist by Allan Grant The first thing you notice working with Jamie is how down to earth he is – there’s no ‘white lilies and champagne’ nonsense on his rider! But onstage his star status comes across, powering through a mix of covers and original material. At Jamie’s last gig for me he even invited guests to sing with him! Matt Edmondson Radio 1 Presenter by Oliver Shermer If you want to inject energy into awards, the diminutive Radio 1 presenter is well worth considering. He has natural enthusiasm, he makes everyone feel relaxed and he leads proceedings without ever succumbing to the temptation of making it all about him. Ellie Goulding Singer-songwriter by Ben Arnold Performing her own hits from Burn to Starry Eyed via Your Song, Ellie and her band delivered a mesmerising 40-minute show. Chatting with the audience and sharing anecdotes in between numbers, she had my client and all his guests entranced - hanging on her every word. Milton Jones The Very World of Milton Jones by Andrew Stoney We’ve worked with Milton for years and it’s great to see him hit the big time. His one-liners are among the best. I’ve seen an entire Great Room captivated, holding on for the next perfectly crafted joke. Sometimes he doesn't even finish the gag – he just leaves you to fill in the gaps. An absolute genius. Russell Kane Edinburgh Award-winning Comedian by Emily Collier Russell drops in hilarious quips throughout the evening. He's intelligent and respectful, but he’s also playful and cheeky – it’s very funny to see him put off his stride whenever a stunning looking woman joins him onstage. The audience is onside for the duration. The Lionels Classics Function Band by Ben Arnold Not only are Rich and his band some of the nicest musicians on the circuit, it’s plain to see they get a kick from entertaining corporate audiences. You don’t always find such genuine helpfulness and enthusiasm among covers band – and it really comes across both to organisers and guests. The Noise Next Door Improv Troupe by Sarah Blake I discovered this bunch at Edinburgh, the stand-out act in a strong year. Their quick wit can’t fail to impress - so it wasn’t surprising when they left the Real Variety Show audience wanting more. They’re fun, young, attention-grabbing and…. perhaps a little bit genius. Agent Recommendations by Adam Harkness Lucy Adams Former HR Director, BBC by Adam Harkness Thanks to her experience in turbulent times at the BBC, Lucy's speech is incredibly insightful – but she also has a natural ability to engage the room. The self-confessed "recovering HR director" even manages to inject a sense of fun. Whether she's asked to talk about the scourge of annual appraisals or the challenges of virtual teams, you will come away with a fresh perspective. Agent Recommendations by Allan Grant Rt Hon Lord (Andrew) Adonis Chair, National Infrastructure Commission by Allan Grant Andrew has a brain the size of planet – condensing swathes of information into a speech that’s always tight to the brief and laced with humour. I've seen him speak on topics from infrastructure and education to collaboration. You can feel delegates paying close attention: they know they’re getting an inside view from one of the most influential policy makers in Westminster. Gyles Brandreth Broadcaster & Writer by Allan Grant It’s a cliché, but Gyles’ personality alone can fill a room. He really enjoys what he does and it shows. Clients love him: he’s a delight to work with, he adapts to any situation, and most importantly he’s a terrific raconteur. Alastair Campbell New Labour’s Communications Director by Allan Grant I love how Alastair balances humour, gossip and serious messages. The story about the Deputy PM punching an egg-throwing voter is typical: Alastair gets a call from Prezza (in pantomime Yorkshire): "Hello… Errr… I've just thumped someone." After telling us what happened, he gives the audience a genuine insight into how to manage a potential PR disaster. It's a fantastic listen. Alan Carr Chatty Man by Allan Grant Offstage Alan is like his onscreen persona: down to earth, self-deprecating and wickedly funny. But he really delivers onstage. His opening routine intersperses topical gags with industry-specific material, and his energy is unrelenting. I can't recommend him highly enough. Hal Cruttenden Comedian, Actor & Writer by Allan Grant Hal's comedy is perfect for corporate audiences. He's instantly endearing - with McIntyre-style energy, stage presence (and campness) along with wonderfully self deprecating put-downs. I’m still laughing at the gag about ignoring his child's schooling because she didn't ask him about his own day. Jamie Cullum Jazz Singer-Pianist by Allan Grant The first thing you notice working with Jamie is how down to earth he is – there’s no ‘white lilies and champagne’ nonsense on his rider! But onstage his star status comes across, powering through a mix of covers and original material. At Jamie’s last gig for me he even invited guests to sing with him! Karen Darke Para-cyclist & Mountaineer by Allan Grant Karen’s achievements since her accident stretch from extreme adventure to elite sport. If the basic premise of a motivational speech is to inspire you to adapt to the situation and scale new heights, it never feels more real than when listening to Karen. She’s been though such a horrific chain of events, yet remains defiantly positive. It feels like a real privilege to hear her story. Huw Edwards Lead Anchor, BBC TV News by Allan Grant Live events give Huw an opportunity to display a wicked sense of humour. Unsurprisingly, he’s quick to a master the brief; what’s extraordinary is the ease with which he mixes serious messages with funny anecdotes – and his ability to make audiences feel they’re attending a very special occasion Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones ‘The Black Farmer’ by Allan Grant For me Wilfred is the perfect speaker. He isn’t one of those entrepreneurs who just dish up clichés. His is a personal story, full of lessons for delegates to take away and put into practice. The methods Wilfred used to take The Black Farmer from a niche, local product to an everyday supermarket brand are a ‘must-hear’ for any business that wants to grow. Stephen Sackur HARDtalk by Allan Grant I really enjoy working with Stephen. Though he's a hard-hitting journalist who interviews world leaders on a regular basis, he's incredibly affable and clearly ‘gets’ corporate events. It’s a given that he quickly gets on top of a tricky brief – what’s more unusual is that everything’s always so easy to arrange. Agent Recommendations by Andrew Stoney Buzz Aldrin Pioneering American Astronaut by Andrew Stoney You can't fail to feel excited and honoured to listen to Buzz. He's a living legend and a true pioneer, who's dedicated his life to space exploration. 45 years after walking on the moon he's still amazingly sprightly, with his sights firmly set on colonising Mars. In my view any audience would be inspired by Buzz's story – and transfixed by his vision of the future. Ben Fogle The Accidental Adventurer by Andrew Stoney It’s hard to imagine that Ben fell into being an adventurer by accident. As he talks about his projects, what becomes clear is his passion and determination – as well as his boundless natural charm. He leaves you thinking that one day you might be able to row across the Atlantic yourself! Milton Jones The Very World of Milton Jones by Andrew Stoney We’ve worked with Milton for years and it’s great to see him hit the big time. His one-liners are among the best. I’ve seen an entire Great Room captivated, holding on for the next perfectly crafted joke. Sometimes he doesn't even finish the gag – he just leaves you to fill in the gaps. An absolute genius. Geoff Miller Former ECB Chairman of Selectors by Andrew Stoney With perfect comic timing Geoff tells of his tussles with some of the greats of the game. I’ve watched an audience of 1000 collapse in laughter when he described his lack of athleticism between the wickets. Even if you don’t like cricket, if you appreciate self-deprecating humour you’ll love Geoff Miller. James Nesbitt Actor by Andrew Stoney Jimmy is one of the most easy-going hosts. Nothing is too much trouble. He spends time learning about the event, then works with his scriptwriter to put together a funny and relevant intro. He’s professional and utterly charming. David Rowan Editor-in-Chief, WIRED UK by Andrew Stoney If you want a speaker to provide a glimpse of what the future holds for your sector and your customers, David is for you. He sees himself as a storyteller, describing ways in which the world is rapidly changing and how technology is creating new opportunities for all businesses. But it comes with a warning: there are serious dangers if you ignore what’s happening around you. Agent Recommendations by Ben Arnold Professor David Blanchflower Professor of Economics, Dartmouth College by Ben Arnold There are economists, forecasters and analysts – and then there's Danny. He’s straight talking, unafraid to cover ground many fear to tread, and he cuts through the gamesmanship. I particularly like his analogy about economic recovery: “It’s like visiting the doctor. Everyone wants to know when they’ll get better, but the best we can do is monitor progress and treat accordingly.” Stéphane Garelli Professor, IMD by Ben Arnold While many economic speakers start by bracing you for whatever gloomy predictions they’re about to deliver, Stephane engages you with a real glint in his eye. Describing the post-recession world as “unusually desynchronised” he guides delegates through each region’s competitiveness, helping to join the dots in a constantly changing business landscape. Ellie Goulding Singer-songwriter by Ben Arnold Performing her own hits from Burn to Starry Eyed via Your Song, Ellie and her band delivered a mesmerising 40-minute show. Chatting with the audience and sharing anecdotes in between numbers, she had my client and all his guests entranced - hanging on her every word. Angela Lamont Technology & Science Presenter by Ben Arnold I’m constantly impressed with Angela’s industriousness. She’s a fastidious researcher and she always seems to have a genuine interest in the topic. My clients re-book her again and again – that says everything. Michael Pawlyn Architect & Innovator by Ben Arnold Not so much a futurist as one who’s actually helping shape the future, Michael shows what can happen when engineering and nature work in harmony to provide solutions to the seemingly impossible – like in his ground breaking Sahara Forest Project. He has a growing international reputation on the back of his TED speech, and he’s one of the few I could listen to again and again. The Lionels Classics Function Band by Ben Arnold Not only are Rich and his band some of the nicest musicians on the circuit, it’s plain to see they get a kick from entertaining corporate audiences. You don’t always find such genuine helpfulness and enthusiasm among covers band – and it really comes across both to organisers and guests. Agent Recommendations by Barbara de Lacy Rachel Botsman Author, What’s Mine is Yours by Barbara de Lacy Not only have Rachel’s book and ideas helped me make lifestyle choices, she’s also got some absolutely essential advice for twenty-first century businesses. Her speeches are peppered with nuggets that you’ll find yourself repeating to friends and colleagues for days to come. 200,000 views within two weeks of her latest TED Global talk going online say it all. Kevin Bridges Scottish Standup Star by Barbara de Lacy Much has been made of Kevin’s age but it’s still difficult to believe he’s so young when you see him perform. He’s got confidence in spades, and event producers love him because he’s so accommodating and mature. I love his cheeky grin as he waits for the audience to catch up with his punchline. Derren Brown Mind Control, Svengali by Barbara de Lacy When you’re lucky enough to stumble on a free date between filming and touring, Derren’s an absolute pleasure to work with. Production is blissfully simple in any space, and he really understands corporate audiences. You end up with a fast-paced, hugely entertaining show which will baffle everyone! Simon Calver Former Chief Executive, LOVEFiLM by Barbara de Lacy Simon’s LoveStory speech, with a film illustrating each early year of the business, demonstrates the ideals he still sticks to - you must be the culture of your business, and you mustn’t compromise or delegate that responsibility. Listening to him, you know he practises as he preaches: rewarding customers, continually challenging his people and developing relationships wherever he sees potential. Alan Chambers Expedition Leader by Barbara de Lacy When you first meet Alan his expression is so deadpan it’s hard to believe he motivates people in such large numbers. See him in front of an audience and he’s utterly captivating. You suddenly realise how he’s able to lead groups of big egos through the harshest environments in the world. And you’ve got to admire a man who takes his 10-year old son on a trip to the North Pole! Matt Forde Comedian & Presenter by Barbara de Lacy Recreating the House of Commons onstage might not sound like everybody’s cup of tea, but Matt pulls it off. Part football obsessive, part PMQs geek, he’s just as much at home dishing out topical stand-up as interviewing George Galloway – and his Ed Miliband impression is uncanny. Natasha Kaplinsky News Presenter by Barbara de Lacy Natasha brings a touch of glamour to the proceedings and dazzles audience and interviewees alike. I’ve seen her equally at home dissecting the prospects for UK Plc with Sir Martin Sorrell as she was entertaining midwives at their awards – she never ever seems to get flustered. Professor Mariana Mazzucato Professor, Economics of Innovation by Barbara de Lacy Listening to Mariana is exhilarating and frustrating; because her ideas seem simple and ingenious, but governments seem resistant to embrace them. Her background (Italian-born, US-educated, London-based) gives her a rare perspective, and she is constantly on the move – examples from each country she visits make their way into her next presentation. Agent Recommendations by Simon King Beardyman Human Beatbox by Simon King Beardyman isn’t just possessed of a rare skill, he’s a truly versatile performer. He can silence a room in awe, have them tap their feet and stand to applaud all within five minutes. I've watched him evolve from gifted beatboxer into a headline star – embracing comedy and unbelievable vocal gymnastics. Todd Buchholz Former White House Director for Economic Policy by Simon King Todd is not the brash, over-bearing financier his Wall Street to White House CV suggests. He uses a host of unconventional analogies to explain what’s going on in the markets, geopolitics and economics. Mix this with unbridled enthusiasm for business, sharp intelligence and delivery bordering on stand-up. You can expect lessons from history, politics and showbusiness. Sean Collins Canadian Comedian by Simon King Offering a delightful deadpan take on British quirks, Sean is a cut above the average circuit comedian. He shares his amazement at how readily we accept most things don't work (transport, people etc), his amusement at foreigners' expectations and his daily frustrations with his family. He hits the mark with any crowd, from rowdy to reserved. Professor A.C. Grayling Master, New College of the Humanities by Simon King The word 'philosopher' conjures up images of brooding pretension or high-minded aloofness. Anthony conforms to neither stereotype. He's down-to-earth, witty and understandable. He makes abstract concepts like fairness and ethics genuinely thought-provoking – especially for organisations looking to define their place in the lives of employees and customers. Bill Grimsey Author & Former Retail CEO by Simon King Bill has the common touch you might expect from one of the few bosses to go from storeroom to boardroom. When his 4-year old granddaughter pleaded for an iPad, he began to imagine how she’ll be served by retailers of the future. He now gives an unsentimental insider’s view of the commercial realities they face - not forgetting the social side of the high street that affects us all. Jay Rayner Writer, Presenter & Food Critic by Simon King Jay is everything you need in an after dinner speaker - perhaps it's years of entertaining dining companions. He’s eloquent, easy going and comes with a store of anecdotes about life as a restaurant critic (aka "going out to eat and writing smart-arsed things about it"). Agent Recommendations by Danny Lee Abandoman Comedy Hip-hop Improv by Danny Lee I put Abandoman in front of one usually reserved technology crowd, and by the end of the evening the CEO was dancing on the table screaming for an encore. The foremost (and only) Irish ‘hip-hop improv’ act are a must for any audience with even the tiniest capacity for fun. Book them now! William Butler-Adams CEO, Brompton Bicycles Ltd by Danny Lee Bounding onstage, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're watching a cross between Boris Johnson and Willy Wonka (minus the Oompa Loompas). But there's more to WBA than meets the eye. As he extols the virtues of British engineering, you feel a sense of pride - not just about where we've been, but where we're going. Maybe the future of manufacturing isn't so bleak after all! Frank Bruno and Garry Richardson Former Heavyweight World Champion, BBC Radio sports presenter by Danny Lee If you’re after a big sports star, they don't come much bigger than Bruno. When a former heavyweight World Champion walks into the room it tends to focus the mind. With Garry Richardson as the interviewer, you get a story of extraordinary highs and lows – with a lot of laughs thrown in. John Lloyd Producer, QI, Blackadder by Danny Lee It’s a mystery why the viewing public isn’t given a chance to see that John’s at least as funny as the stars he’s nurtured. Not only is he the man behind Bean and Blackadder, he also co-wrote After Liff with Douglas Adams. Besides the gags, John is so inspiring when he talks about QI changing the way we learn. Stephen Mangan Actor & Guest Host by Danny Lee The best awards host I've seen all year. If ‘briefability’ were a real word then Stephen has it in spades. The fact that the first winner of the evening ran up to the stage and greeted him with a double high five showed how brilliantly Stephen had immersed himself in the event. Romesh Ranganathan Comedian by Danny Lee Romesh's onstage disdain for everyone and everything is utterly infectious. It's rare for someone playing the misanthrope to have so much charm, but he pulls off the perfect balance. His routine meanders over well-trodden paths, but every punch line feels fresh. Watch the audience roar their approval. Jeffrey Robinson Author, The Laundrymen by Danny Lee Money laundering might not normally rate high as a source of entertainment, but Jeffrey's revelations about the more murky corners of the business world are absolutely gripping. With his New York comic’s delivery, he has audiences in the palm of his hand with every "You're not going to believe this…" story. Professor Marcus du Sautoy Mathematician, Broadcaster & Author by Danny Lee It's a wonderful thing when a seemingly dry subject is brought to life. As soon as he comes onstage Marcus grabs you, throwing out maths problems and then explaining where we’ve all gone wrong! It’s not new to say that maths is integral to everything, but Marcus goes way beyond platitudes and really gets down to the nitty gritty. Where was he when I needed him at school?!? Agent Recommendations by Andy Hickman Terry Alderton Comedian & Actor by Andy Hickman Forget he was in Eastenders, Terry’s comedy persona is as far from soaps as you can get. It’s an earthquake of energy, random accents and disembodied catchphrases verging on performance art. (But unlike performance art, he’s belly-achingly funny.) Terry is an original, capable of conquering any crowd. BJ Cunningham Serial Entrepreneur by Andy Hickman It begins as a battery of anecdotes, delivered with a mischievous sense of humour. Then, amid jaw dropping and laughter, a rallying cry emerges: leap at every opportunity, don’t fear the Goliaths who obstruct your path, and always come back fighting. As well as all that, his almost spiritual distillation of the concept of ‘brand’ will have you throwing your old definition into the dustbin. Professor Germaine Greer Writer & Academic by Andy Hickman Once over the thrill of meeting a feminist legend, you realise Germaine is an authority on anything from ageing to Australia. She illuminates her argument with casually recalled quotes, taking on lofty concepts with warmth and self-deprecating humour. She manages to cut through the cacophony of politically correct discourse with a bluntness and common sense you just can’t ignore. Agent Recommendations by Sarah Blake Angellica Bell The One Show by Sarah Blake Some clients would only consider Angellica for young audiences, but she's much more versatile than that. She can move seamlessly between fun and serious, she really holds the audience and she’s refreshingly flexible with things like timings and scripts. Andrew Davis Social Media Strategist by Sarah Blake Andrew cuts through the gimmickry and helps you create a proper social media strategy. As well as waxing lyrical on how to create great content, he encourages you to pin down elusive ROI. But for me Andrew’s real magic is the way he equips you with the tools and confidence to keep making the right decisions - even when the game changes all over again. PY Gerbeau Visiting Professor, LBS & Imperial College by Sarah Blake Despite the fact that he lectures MBA students, there’s no jargon with PY. In his own disarming way, he makes it crystal clear that people are the most important asset in any organisation – so now more than ever, managers need to lead by example. This is real insight from a seasoned CEO and recovery expert. His messages will resonate with everyone. Alex Jones The One Show by Sarah Blake At the last event Alex did for me she stayed on site throughout the day, charmed everyone involved, looked gorgeous and did a fabulous job controlling a very excitable room. She’s a wonderful Welsh whirlwind. Fred MacAulay Scottish Comedian & Radio Host by Sarah Blake Fred is a national treasure in Scotland, but one of my London-based clients wasn't familiar with him and had always booked a name. Having worked with Fred for years I promised he would storm their awards and respect their senior audience. The day after the event the client declared that he’d delivered 100% – “and it reflected brilliantly on the organisers!” Steph McGovern Business, BBC Breakfast by Sarah Blake Steph’s a perfect combination of ‘plugged in’ and ‘credible’ – while remaining utterly down to earth. I’ve seen her demystify financial markets for grey-suited conference delegates and whoop up a roomful of excited awards contenders. It’s a fabulous sight to witness. I’m certain Ms McGovern’s profile is on a swift upward trajectory… Ian Moore Mod Comedian by Sarah Blake Ian is proving an utterly safe pair of hands. I’ve seen him charm and entertain a big room as well as, if not better than any ‘celebrity’ comic. Sometimes it can be tense watching a corporate audience watching someone they don’t know – with Ian, the client and I were completely relaxed throughout. Hamish Taylor Former Travel & Banking CEO by Sarah Blake After proposing Hamish to one client, he immediately put together detailed examples of how he’d address their very exacting brief. He then delivered on it IN SPADES – giving delegates practical ideas for engaging their customers in a much more distinctive way. This has left me with an interesting challenge for the next event: now my client doesn’t believe anyone can top Hamish! The Noise Next Door Improv Troupe by Sarah Blake I discovered this bunch at Edinburgh, the stand-out act in a strong year. Their quick wit can’t fail to impress - so it wasn’t surprising when they left the Real Variety Show audience wanting more. They’re fun, young, attention-grabbing and…. perhaps a little bit genius. Marc Woods Paralympic Gold Medallist by Sarah Blake If anyone can teach us a lesson about making the most of our circumstances it’s Marc. When he shows clips of the England team winning their gold medal, you can’t help but cheer as his teammate touches the finish line. When he explains just how everybody played their part, you can’t help but feel inspired. Agent Recommendations by Jeremy Frewer Rt Hon Lord (David) Blunkett Former Home Secretary by Jeremy Frewer Whatever your own political persuasion, when you listen to David you realise his conviction is utterly genuine. Add the fact that he's been blind since birth, and his achievements begin to hit home. But what might really surprise you is the warmth, the wealth of anecdotes and a delightful sense of humour. Rt Hon Lord (Sebastian) Coe President, IAAF & Chairman, London Olympic Games by Jeremy Frewer Listening to Seb you can’t help recall your own favourite moment from London 2012 - be it Super Saturday, the Gamesmakers or Mo Farah winning a second gold. When you hear the behind-the-scenes stories and take in the true scale of the project, you realise quite how much Seb and his team achieved. He’s not just a great leader – he’s also an awesome communicator. Reverend Richard Coles Pop Star Turned Curate by Jeremy Frewer Richard's speech is one of the warmest I’ve heard in 10 years at JLA. After a glance back to his days as a pop star, he describes the shock of wearing cassocks and sharing a dormitory at the age of 40. If you’re a fan of Rev. (for which he is the inspiration), Richard will leave you in fits of giggles. Fraser Doherty Founder, SuperJam by Jeremy Frewer With his big smile and positive energy, Fraser radiates charm. You can’t help smiling back when he talks about selling jam door to door, and laughing out loud at the thought that his Grandma has no idea of the intellectual property value of her recipes. SuperJam seems to embody Fraser’s own character: authentic, unpretentious and with no added preservatives! Sir Ranulph Fiennes The Greatest Living Explorer by Jeremy Frewer Fiennes is a living legend. Behind the stiff upper lip and glorious wit is one of the most inspiring leaders you could ever encounter. He shows how his close-knit teams stay ahead of the competition by evaluating the terrain, challenging the status quo and embracing technology. The business analogy is obvious – the effect Ran has on audiences (of any nationality) is a joy to behold. Andrew Neil Media Owner & Broadcaster by Jeremy Frewer Andrew's knowledge of business and politics is encyclopaedic. He not only ‘gets’ speaking briefs, he’s also extremely useful to have onside. And he runs a very tight ship as a moderator, lightening the mood whenever he finds the opportunity. The result is that Andrew’s sessions become the creative spaces they’re meant to be – a million miles from Death by PowerPoint. Russell Watson Classical Cross-over Star by Jeremy Frewer Apart from Russell’s unquestionable talent and the inspiring way he’s dealt with cancer, what I admire most is his warmth and approachability. Though clearly at home on the world stage, he genuinely loves connecting with small corporate audiences – it only takes a quaver for Russell have you spellbound. Agent Recommendations by Hannah Rogers Robert Guest Foreign Editor, The Economist by Hannah Rogers The breadth of Robert's insight is so impressive. When I last saw him he pulled together anecdotes and analysis on the US, China and Russia – then related their economic policies to the situation in the UK. It made for some striking (and entertaining) contrasts. He takes big and contentious issues and explores their impact in a way that’s immediately relevant and engaging. Alex Hunter Brand & Customer Loyalty Expert by Hannah Rogers Alex speaks with real authority on the successes (and setbacks) of online business, and how peer-to-peer collaboration is changing the consumer experience. His own enthusiasm onstage perfectly echoes his argument that an ability to build relationships with customers online and make them care is what makes you stand out in the increasingly competitive digital space. Isabel Oakeshott Former Sunday Times Political Editor by Hannah Rogers As a former Times Political Editor, Isabel has a true insider's perspective on the policies and personalities that shape our politics. At the event I attended her candour really set her apart from other speakers, winning everyone over with nuanced and persuasive answers. She'd clearly worked out how to relate her expertise to the concerns of the audience. Agent Recommendations by Jamie Curtis Ed Byrne Mock The Week by Jamie Curtis Ed has a remarkable ability to judge audiences. Whatever mood you’re in before he walks on, you’ll be laughing at yourself by the end – and his jokes will follow you around the next day. I won’t be able to think about pillow talk in quite the same way ever again! Tim Harford Financial Times’ Undercover Economist by Jamie Curtis The Undercover Economist was the first book I read when I joined JLA – since then I’ve never failed to be impressed by Tim. He makes you look at everything differently. Hearing his new speech on Big Data was a revelation: you realise the challenge is not to get the biggest data set, but the right data! He has a knack for making the seemingly impenetrable blissfully clear. Agent Recommendations by Anke Schuster Clare Balding Channel 4 Racing, BT Sport by Anke Schuster Wearing her conference presenter hat Clare brings a lightness of touch that gets the best out of anyone, from guest stars to business types. She makes it so easy for them to convey their own struggles and achievements – and she’s a joy to have on your team. Sir Chris Hoy Six-Time Gold Medal-winning Track Cyclist by Anke Schuster You rarely see an audience as awestruck as they are when Chris walks onstage. In an age full of so-called legends, he’s one of the few I work with who truly deserves the accolade - both for his achievements and the reaction he inspires. He exudes determination and charm, and despite all the medals his feet are still very firmly on the ground. He’s an inspiration, in every sense. Rt Hon Michael Portillo Broadcaster & Columnist by Anke Schuster Michael's charming, self-deprecating and always delivers the right blend of banter and content: it’s obvious he’s enjoying not being a politician. That said, he brings an enormous amount of heavyweight experience to bear – whether he’s facilitating a business debate, mapping out the geopolitical landscape at a conference, handing out industry awards or entertaining guests after dinner. Juan Señor Business Presenter by Anke Schuster Every time I work with Juan he makes people’s lives easier. He puts clients’ minds at rest however tricky the brief, and he goes way beyond the call of duty. It feels like he’s one of the team working on the event, rather than the presenter. Lisa Snowdon Capital Breakfast Show by Anke Schuster Lisa is a joy to work with, both before the event and on the day. She hosts awards with enthusiasm, charm and bags of authority – a true professional! Agent Recommendations by Mark Truman Colin Jackson Champion Hurdler by Mark Truman Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! Professor Steve Peters Consultant Psychiatrist by Mark Truman When Hoy, Wiggins and Pendleton all put their success down to one psychiatrist's mind management techniques, it doesn’t take a great leap to see that corporate audiences want to hear what they too can learn about their fears from Steve Peters. He’s known as a game changer. The question is, can you keep your inner chimp in its cage and perform under pressure??? Agent Recommendations by Sinead McGowan John Barrowman Actor & Presenter by Sinead McGowan John has the charm of Captain Jack, the professionalism of a primetime presenter and the talent to belt out a show tune - all good reasons to book him. He flirts with everyone and takes some beating if you’re looking for an injection of showbiz glitz. Jeremy Bowen BBC Middle East Editor by Sinead McGowan Jeremy tells awesome stories with such wry humour that it makes for a brilliantly entertaining and surprisingly ‘corporate’ speech. His experiences in 17 war zones will have you on the edge of your seat, his geopolitical insight is relevant for any multinational business – and his approach to challenges in the field, looking after and motivating his team, will resonate with everyone. Nina Conti Comedian & Ventriloquist by Sinead McGowan You’re in for a treat with Nina, particularly if it’s one of your colleagues that gets pulled up onstage. With a wealth of characters at her fingertips it’s always going to be a fun show. I’m constantly amazed at her skill as well as her quick wit – especially when Monkey sings Time to Say Goodbye! Leo Johnson Co-Presenter, FutureProofing by Sinead McGowan Leo convinces you straight away of the importance of ‘future-proofing.’ It’s no mean feat to marry business priorities with the demands of sustainability. He does it with boundless Johnson charm, positivity and real insight backed up by fascinating case studies. I’ve never seen a more entertaining and thought provoking way to set out the challenges and eye up the possible solutions. Agent Recommendations by Jeremy Lee Kevin Keegan Former England Captain & Manager by Jeremy Lee Kevin’s talent for storytelling catches audiences by surprise. This is the tale of a boy from Doncaster who suddenly has the world at his feet, complete with the funniest slide show you’ve ever seen. There’s plenty of nostalgia, but it’s also uplifting – even if you don’t have an ounce of interest in football. Magnus Lindkvist Trendspotter and Futurist by Jeremy Lee With a dry Nordic dry wit and a multimedia presentation that makes you feel like you’re in a theatre, Magnus challenges our way of thinking about the future. While evolving technologies will have a huge impact, from ‘nanobots’ to new sources of energy, he turns many of our assumptions on their head and paints a reassuring picture of a human race confidently adapting to change. Dr Pippa Malmgren WEF ‘Global Leader for Tomorrow’ by Jeremy Lee In uncertain times Pippa provides real nuggets of wisdom about the global economy. It's fascinating to listen to someone who talks with such fluency about the factors that are having an impact on just about everything we buy and sell. You walk away feeling much better informed and a little bit smug about the inside knowledge you've gleaned. Daniel Tammet Real-life Rainman by Jeremy Lee Daniel failed at school. He's now a bestselling author, he speaks a dozen languages and he can visualise complex sums using just shapes and colours. When you hear him explain how he transfers these skills, you begin to realise everything can be seen through a different lens. Audiences come away inspired – thinking about ways to embrace change instead of fearing it. Ian Thomas Game Ranger & Management Expert by Jeremy Lee Ian is one of the most captivating speakers I’ve ever seen. He’s not an actor, but nobody else can bring to life as vivid a picture of how lions behave - and then use it to demonstrate human teamwork. When he describes how a cub will chase a zebra knowing other members of the pride will join in, you can hear a pin drop. And you know the penny’s dropped too. Agent Recommendations by Emily Collier Guy Browning Director, Smokehouse by Emily Collier In the words of one client, listening to Guy is “like being at The Comedy Store, but with a business message!” I’ve seen him have a group of stockbrokers on their feet impersonating athletes, pondering moral queries and roaring with laughter at his advice on how to manage your boss. They were putty in a master’s hands! Bob Geldof Campaigner & Businessman by Emily Collier When Bob took to the stage, even the most serious looking business types pressed forward to listen. It's a cliché to describe a speaker having an audience 'spellbound' - but Bob's such a natural storyteller that he held their attention effortlessly, speaking without notes and from the heart. Afterwards he posed for selfies with everyone, including the event organisers!” Russell Kane Edinburgh Award-winning Comedian by Emily Collier Russell drops in hilarious quips throughout the evening. He's intelligent and respectful, but he’s also playful and cheeky – it’s very funny to see him put off his stride whenever a stunning looking woman joins him onstage. The audience is onside for the duration. Michael Mosley Producer & Presenter by Emily Collier Michael’s tricky to pigeon-hole because has so many strings to his bow, from popular science and technological innovation to NHS reforms. I always enjoy working with him – he takes the time to understand the background and really gets involved with the client. Michael even based one of his TV shows on an idea that stemmed from an event, so it’s clearly mutually beneficial! Josh Widdicombe The Last Leg by Emily Collier The fresh-faced young comic comes out with unexpectedly dry humour. It’s observational comedy at its best, which will have the audience reminiscing and laughing as if they’re all in on a private joke. Agent Recommendations by Oliver Shermer Matt Edmondson Radio 1 Presenter by Oliver Shermer If you want to inject energy into awards, the diminutive Radio 1 presenter is well worth considering. He has natural enthusiasm, he makes everyone feel relaxed and he leads proceedings without ever succumbing to the temptation of making it all about him. Baroness Eliza Manningham-Buller Head of MI5 2002-2007 by Oliver Shermer Leadership isn't just something Eliza talks about; it's there in everything she does. She handles questions brilliantly, her tone is steady and considered, and she holds the room in a way that only someone who’s used to being listened to can. In fact the former MI5 boss is disarmingly approachable, witty and warm (and not at all scary). Paddy O’Connell Broadcasting House by Oliver Shermer Paddy exudes wonderful optimism at a time of spreading cynicism. He’s also a natural storyteller. What I like most is the cheeky glint in his eye - whether he’s talking about the joys of Eurovision or what’s it like to know that half your audience is only listening because they’re waiting for The Archers. Richard Parks Rugby Player Turned Adventurer by Oliver Shermer Despite his reputation as an aggressive rugby player, Richard comes across as a humble guy. His irrepressible enthusiasm for death-defying exploits for charity can’t fail to raise a smile. More importantly, the way he's turned career-ending injury into a source of motivation is a terrific lesson for anyone. Scott Seaborn Global Digital Strategy Director, Aimia & Creative Technologist by Oliver Shermer Perfectly appropriate for both up-to-the-minute techies and pencil-and-paper types, Scott quickly wins the audience’s respect with live demos and great video shorts. Above all he has a knack for holding onto the ‘human’ in a world of seemingly limitless technological possibilities – reminding us to focus on the useful and ‘personable’ as well as the spellbinding. Ken Segall Steve Jobs’ Creative Director at Apple by Oliver Shermer Ken’s understated delivery and wry smile might be what you'd expect from a man associated with the coolness of Apple. But it isn't a shallow speech about shiny electronic products; what his stories reveal about simplicity of both design and service goes to the core of how all businesses should operate. It’s magical to watch heads nod and confidence spread throughout the room. Will Whitehorn Former President, Virgin Galactic by Oliver Shermer What’s so impressive about Will is how passionate he is about new ideas and innovation, combined with a steely focus on beating the competition! Listening to his story, you realise you're getting an insight into the dawn of mankind's next giant leap – it’s hugely inspiring. Agent Recommendations by Tom Mclaughlin Caspar Berry Former Poker Pro by Tom Mclaughlin In his conference speech Caspar teaches you about probability and risk. After dinner he gives you a taste of the nerve tingling thrills of poker – complete with steely expressions, fingers tapping on chips and eyes darting around to detect a hint of weakness in others. It’s fabulous to see him generate so much excitement without anyone risking a bean of their own money! Austin Healey Rugby Legend, Businessman & Dancer by Tom Mclaughlin When I last worked with Austin the audience loved the travel stories he’d put together for his intro, the production team loved 28 awards being presented bang on time and the client loved the fact that their briefing had been followed to a tee. They were also chuffed he did a ‘Strictly’ twirl to kick the evening off! John Humphrys Today, Mastermind by Tom Mclaughlin The nation's foremost interviewer brings a lighter touch than you might imagine when chairing company or industry conferences or hosting awards ceremonies. His gravitas and credibility however mean that delegates can be assured that their event is not being overtly stage managed nor participants spoon fed - and woe betide anyone who might think that is the case. Dara O Briain Mock the Week by Tom Mclaughlin We’re often asked for a “safe, but edgy” name – someone sidesplittingly funny who will understand the audience, respect the event and follow the brief. Dara invariably shoots to the top of that list because he nails it time and again. He loves delving into other walks of life and coming up with killer industry gags. Ellis Watson CEO, DC Thomson Publishing by Tom Mclaughlin If you want a speaker to spout the latest management theory, don't book Ellis. If you want enthusiasm and practical tips to equip your team for the challenge, you can’t do better. Ellis has been entrusted with turning around sizeable outfits, so when he talks about reigniting the passion in an organisation you know his words aren’t hot air. He really has been there and done it. Jane Young Digital Strategist by Tom Mclaughlin Jane has more commercial nous than you’ll find in a dozen business books. Where others get excited about what technology can do, her focus is on “Why are you doing this – does it help you achieve your objectives?” She applies the same informed common sense to the myriad pitfalls of social business: “It’s not just about getting a Facebook page and a twitter account.” Agent Recommendations by Rebecca Parker Smith Lesley Garrett Soprano & West End Star by Rebecca Parker Smith Lesley is charming and easy to work with – and she delivers a blistering thirty minutes of entertainment. After her performance she mingles with guests and signs autographs – last time in Jersey we had to drag her away! Agent Recommendations by Damian Cotter Myleene Klass Musician & Presenter by Damian Cotter Myleene is a woman of many talents, and she’s wonderfully accommodating. If it’s appropriate for the event, she’s happy to combine her presenting and musical skills. More than that, she creates genuine warmth the moment she steps onstage. Debra Stephenson Impressionist & Actor by Damian Cotter When you book Debra you get Miranda Hart, Davina McCall, Anne Robinson and more into the bargain: she’s an excellent impressionist. More than that, she’s lovely to work with – fun, gracious, encouraging and glamorous. Agent Recommendations by Ana Smolaka Dan Cobley Former MD, Google UK and Ireland by Ana Smolaka To say Dan has his finger on the pulse of technology is an understatement. His insights into what we should expect in our homes and businesses in the future are truly thought provoking – as is his advice on how to harness current technology to make a workplace thrive. You’re watching an expert at the top of his game, with a wonderfully accessible and humorous presentation style. Will Gompertz BBC Arts Editor by Ana Smolaka Will challenges any perceptions of the artistic world as a breeding ground for tormented, penniless outcasts. Instead he describes the most celebrated exponents as entrepreneurs with a sharp understanding of the zeitgeist. Along with some genuinely hilarious stories, Will’s message to business is crystal clear: to survive and thrive, we must all begin to think like artists. Lauren Laverne 6 Music by Ana Smolaka As well as having a finger on the pulse of current trends, what defines Lauren as an awards host is her warmth. She charms organisers, sponsors and most importantly the audience - and makes every winner feel that it’s their moment.And her Sunderland accent can’t fail to endear her to everyone! Agent Recommendations by Georgia Sharp Dawn O’Porter Presenter & Journalist by Georgia Sharp Dawn's the sort of person you want to spend hours nattering to, but that isn’t what makes her special. When I last worked with her there was a technical problem and she just powered on unperturbed with absolute cool – she has areal gift for putting organisers and audience at ease. James Woudhuysen Innovation Forcaster by Georgia Sharp Sure, there must be obscure topics that James knows little about – but he has huge insight about stuff like energy storage, robotics, housing and GM foods. And he has a way of interrogating his subject that reveals connections missed by narrow specialists. It’s this that makes him a credible ‘futurist’ – taking wide research and placing it in context. And boy can he respond to a brief! Agent Recommendations by Rory Wilson Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein Associate Editor, The Times by Rory Wilson Danny has his audience in stitches with his collection of ‘Rules for Politics.’ I especially like the analogy with hotel towels – and what MPs can learn from footballers. As you’d expect, he also provides a great insight into who’s up to what (and why) in the Westminster village. As much of a joy to watch as he is to work with, Daniel has heads bobbing in agreement right from the off. Paul Mason Author, Postcapitalism & Former Economics Editor by Rory Wilson Paul makes economics and politics personal. Whether he’s exploring the impact of technology on democracy or the future of UK manufacturing, he contextualises his subject in a way that moves it from theory to real life cause and effect. But what I like most about Paul is that he's never afraid to provoke debate and state his own position! Agent Recommendations by Paul Warran Greg Nugent Brand, Marketing & Culture Director, London 2012 by Paul Warran Greg’s the man who coined one of the defining terms of the London Olympics: the ‘Gamesmakers.’ It’s fascinating to hear him compare the strategies behind 2012 with his experience at Eurostar and the US Presidential campaign. Hismessage of trust and belief is honest and simple – but what stands out is his passion, his mastery of complex data and his sheer communication skills. Mark Ormrod Royal Marine Triple Amputee by Paul Warran The first thing to strike you about Mark is his resilience and humour. You’ll catch yourself laughing even as he describes retreating from the scene of the bomb blast, and wincing when he recalls standing on his prosthetic limbs forthe first time. The message is clear: measurable goals are the only way to overcome obstacles – whether in business or running across America. By Agent Ben Arnold Sarah Blake Emily Collier Damian Cotter Jamie Curtis Jeremy Frewer Allan Grant Adam Harkness Andy Hickman Simon King Barbara de Lacy Jeremy Lee Danny Lee Sinead McGowan Tom Mclaughlin Hannah Rogers Anke Schuster Georgia Sharp Oliver Shermer Rebecca Parker Smith Ana Smolaka Andrew Stoney Mark Truman Paul Warran Rory Wilson ©2016 JLA. All rights reserved. +44 (0)20 7907 2800 talk@jla.co.uk Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Powered by Blue2