Philip Collins

Philip Collins is a writer, political commentator and Editor of Prospect magazine who specialises in the craft of persuasive communication and the inner workings of British politics. As chief speechwriter to Prime Minister Tony Blair from 2005 to 2007, he coordinated and authored every major address from No. 10 Downing Street, shaping messages on education, health, law and order and European policy. Now a Times columnist and Visiting Fellow at the London School of Economics, Philip delivers masterclasses in speechwriting and political strategy that equip leaders and communicators with the techniques to influence, inspire and connect with any audience.

Philip Collins coordinated every word that left Tony Blair's mouth during two of the most scrutinised years in British political history. As chief speechwriter to the Prime Minister from 2005 to 2007, he shaped addresses on European policy, education, health, law and order, and the major conference keynotes that defined New Labour's final chapter. From conception through to delivery, he controlled the message emerging from No. 10 Downing Street, an experience that gave him unparalleled insight into how political communication works when the stakes are highest.

His career has spanned investment banking, where he became the top-ranked equity strategist in the smaller companies sector, through to directing the Social Market Foundation, an independent think tank where he pioneered market-based reforms to health and education that influenced government policy. Philip has authored novels and academic books on broadcasting policy and public service reform, taught as an academic, and worked in television. He now serves as Editor of Prospect magazine and writes a regular column for The Times, whilst holding a position as Visiting Fellow at the London School of Economics. His work combines practical expertise in political strategy with a deep understanding of how language shapes public opinion, policy, and leadership.

Philip delivers masterclasses in speechwriting and political communication that teach leaders, executives, and communicators how to craft messages that persuade, inspire, and endure. His presentations demystify the techniques used at the highest levels of government, offering audiences practical tools they can apply immediately to their own communication challenges. Whether exploring the current political and economic landscape of the UK or sharing behind-the-scenes stories from his time inside Downing Street, his talks are both highly entertaining and deeply instructive. Audiences leave with a sharper understanding of how to structure arguments, connect with diverse listeners, and deliver messages that create genuine impact, all drawn from someone who has written words that moved a nation.