Top 10 Business Guest Speakers for Your 2025 Event

Founder of Cobra Beer and President of the Confederation of British Industry, Lord Karan Bilimoria, is one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs. His story is one of perseverance and innovation, turning an idea born during his university years into an international success story. Drawing on his experiences building a brand from scratch, he offers compelling lessons on leadership, scaling businesses, and staying resilient in times of uncertainty. With warmth and humour, Lord Bilimoria inspires audiences to think globally, act boldly, and lead with integrity.

Known as the “First Lady of Football” and one of the UK’s most prominent businesswomen, Baroness Karren Brady has led an extraordinary career. As Vice-Chair of West Ham United and a regular on The Apprentice, she combines sharp business acumen with straight-talking leadership insight. Karren’s keynotes are filled with practical advice on negotiation, resilience, and achieving success in traditionally male-dominated industries. Her story, from becoming the youngest managing director in the Premier League to a powerful advocate for diversity, is one of determination and breaking barriers.

A leading voice for the next generation of business leaders, Grace Beverley is the founder and CEO of sustainable brands TALA and Shreddy. Named in Forbes 30 Under 30, she represents a new kind of entrepreneurship, one that balances commercial success with conscious values. Grace’s talks explore how social media, sustainability, and innovation intersect, offering practical advice on building a brand that resonates with modern consumers. With honesty and clarity, she challenges outdated business norms and inspires audiences to embrace purpose-driven growth.

The name Jo Malone is synonymous with creativity and luxury. As founder of Jo Malone London and Jo Loves, she built one of the world’s most recognisable fragrance brands from her kitchen table. Jo’s story is one of entrepreneurial passion and resilience, from humble beginnings to international acclaim. She speaks openly about overcoming challenges, nurturing creativity, and building a brand that connects deeply with customers. With her signature warmth and insight, Jo empowers audiences to believe that the best ideas often begin with instinct and heart.

One of the most original entrepreneurs of his generation, Johnny Earle turned a simple idea: selling T-shirts packaged in bakery boxes, into a multimillion-dollar global brand. His company, Johnny Cupcakes, has become a masterclass in creative marketing and community building. Johnny’s presentations are high-energy, humorous, and filled with real-world lessons on innovation, storytelling, and brand loyalty. He inspires audiences to think differently, embrace curiosity, and create experiences that customers never forget.

Founder of Risha Grant LLC, Risha is an international expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her work helps businesses harness the power of difference to build stronger, more innovative organisations. Risha’s talks combine personal stories with actionable strategies for creating cultures that attract and retain diverse talent. She encourages audiences to lead with empathy and authenticity, showing that inclusion is not just the right thing to do - it’s a driver of business performance. Her energy and candour make her an unforgettable presence on stage.

As founder of Travelex, Sir Lloyd Dorfman has built one of the world’s most successful foreign exchange businesses. His journey from small start-up to global enterprise offers invaluable insights into entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and leadership. Beyond business, Sir Lloyd is a dedicated philanthropist and cultural advocate, serving as Chairman of the Prince’s Trust and trustee of major arts institutions. His talks are rich in experience and grounded in integrity, leaving audiences inspired by what can be achieved through vision, resilience, and purpose.

Co-founder of notonthehighstreet and founder of Holly & Co, Holly Tucker is a champion of creativity and small business. She empowers entrepreneurs to find meaning and joy in their work while building brands that matter. Holly’s talks are full of heart and practical wisdom; she shares lessons from her own journey of growing a business from her kitchen table to a national brand. With honesty and optimism, she shows how creativity, community, and courage can turn ideas into thriving ventures.

Retail magnate and long-time Dragons’ Den investor, Theo Paphitis is known for his no-nonsense approach to business success. From revitalising high street names like Ryman and Boux Avenue to mentoring budding entrepreneurs, Theo’s insights come from decades of hands-on experience. His talks are candid, funny, and packed with practical advice about leadership, negotiation, and spotting opportunities. A passionate advocate for small business, he inspires audiences to back themselves, think strategically, and never stop learning.

Co-founder of Coffee Republic and Skinny Candy, Sahar Hashemi is one of the UK’s most inspiring entrepreneurs. She speaks passionately about building entrepreneurial mindsets within organisations, showing how curiosity, creativity, and courage fuel innovation. Her story of transforming a simple idea into a national coffee chain is both practical and uplifting. Sahar’s energy and authenticity resonate with audiences of all backgrounds, reminding them that the entrepreneurial spirit isn’t just for start-ups,  it’s for anyone ready to challenge the status quo and make things happen.