A new poll has revealed the UK’s top ten thought leaders to follow in 2026.
The survey by London Keynote Speakers Agency – the UK’s largest keynote speakers agency, is an unmissable list for businesses looking to find speakers and commentators who can help energise their teams over the year ahead.
The top ten is drawn from the firm’s world-leading roster of speakers, including former heads of state, technology entrepreneurs, TV personalities, plus much, much more.
It includes Dragons Den star Steven Bartlett, and Dr Jo Salter MBE, who made history as the RAF’s first female fast jet pilot.
Jack Hayes, founder and director of Champions Speakers, said booking a speaker can have a powerful motivational effect, as expert insights can provide fresh perspectives for staff looking for ways to get ahead of the competition.
Commenting on the UK’s top ten thought leaders poll, he said: “The right speaker can relate sometimes to very moving personal experiences and the memories of the encounter can be long-lasting for audiences.
“Over the years, I’ve heard some astounding tales of people who’ve been persuaded to take that big next step after listening to a keynote speaker.
“If you are looking for leaders who can inspire and spark important internal discussions, then we have the speakers you need. These 10 are currently at the top of the tree.”
According to data gathered from feedback and reviews linked to hundreds of events, the top ten thought leaders for 2026 are:
Dr Jo Salter MBE – she made history as the RAF’s first female fast jet pilot, flying the Tornado GR1 on frontline missions with 617 Squadron. Born in Bournemouth in Dorset, she also went on to become a director and Chief of Staff at PricewaterhouseCoopers, responsible for digital capabilities within the people and organisation practice.
Jez Rose – originally from High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire, Jez is an internationally renowned keynote speaker, award-winning author, and broadcaster, celebrated for his ability to captivate audiences. He has spent 21 years at the forefront of positive behaviour change; Microsoft has named him the 10 most sought-after business speakers in North America.
Katy Leeson – Katy, who hails from Stockport in Greater Manchester, is the former managing director of Stephen Bartlett’s company Social Chain. Today, she helps leaders, teams, and entrepreneurs unlock clarity, confidence, and meaningful growth without the burnout.
Steven Bartlett – Dragon’s Den investor and host of Europe’s number one podcast, The Diary of a CEO. Steven, who grew up in Plymouth, is an accomplished investor in the health and wellness space with notable investments including Huel.
Dr Brené Brown – TED talk speaker and emotional intelligence expert. She is also the author of five New York Times bestselling books and is revolutionising the concept of emotional intelligence.
James Clear – the author of the bestseller Atomic Habits, his high-energy and informative speeches leave a lasting impression on audiences. He has worked with some of the biggest names in business and provides valuable insight into changing habits and personal development.
John Amaechi OBE – a psychologist, consultant, and former professional basketball player who has played for teams in the USA and in Europe. Educated in Stockport, he is also the founder of APS Intelligence is revered for his knowledge of effective and inclusive leadership, organisational design, and maximising productivity.
Nicky Moffat – after graduating from Liverpool University, Brigadier Nicola Moffat CBE, was the highest-ranking woman in the British Army until she left in 2012. She has also worked at the heart of government as a private secretary to the Secretary of State for Defence and now specialises in leadership development.
Asif Sadiq – the former Head of Diversity and Inclusiveness for EY Financial Services and the former Head of Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Unit for the City of London Police. His expertise focuses on achieving significant success with strategic and operational targets, as well as managing risk, change, performance and quality.
Sarah Armstrong-Smith – from Swindon in Wiltshire, Sarah Armstrong-Smith is Microsoft’s chief information security officer and revered in the world of cyber-security. She is also a member of the government’s Cyber Advisory Board, and a trustee and fellow of the British Computer Society.
For more information please see champions-speakers.co.uk
Name: Nick Owens
Company: Champions Speakers
Email: nick.owens@magnifypr.co.uk
Website: https://champions-speakers.co.uk/
