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Available to book

Security editor & warzone journalist

Deborah Haynes

Gain a frontline perspective on the realities of war, diplomacy, and resilience with Deborah Haynes, Security and Defence Editor at Sky News. Deborah equips organisations with geopolitical risk insights and conflict analysis, delivering actionable intelligence on global security threats. Award-winning journalist recognised with Amnesty International UK Media Award for warzone reporting.

Trusted by Sky News

Deborah Haynes, Speaker | Security & Defence
Deborah Haynes

Deborah Haynes

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£11k–25k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Deborah Haynes's biography

At a glance

  • Award-winning frontline conflict journalist
  • Security and Defence Editor at Sky News
  • Creator of The Wargame and Into The Grey Zone podcasts
Deborah Haynes is Britain's leading security and defence journalist who brings frontline reporting experience from the world's most volatile conflict zones to her role as Security and Defence Editor at Sky News. With over two decades covering conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, Deborah was present in Kyiv during Russia's 2022 invasion and continues reporting from the frontlines. She previously made history as the first female Defence Editor for The Times and worked with Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Her award-winning investigations into Iraqi interpreters earned her the Amnesty International UK Media Award and inaugural Bevins Prize in 2008. Through her reporting and analysis, Deborah helps organisations understand the complex interplay between geopolitical tensions, modern warfare tactics, and national security preparedness. Her insights on information warfare and strategic resilience provide crucial context for businesses navigating an increasingly unstable global landscape, particularly regarding cyber threats and international relations. Audiences leave Deborah's presentations with practical understanding of how global conflicts impact business operations, clarity on emerging security threats that may affect organisational planning, and inspiration from stories of leadership under extreme pressure. Book Deborah to give your audience rare, first-hand insights into today's most pressing security challenges through compelling, authoritative storytelling.

Deborah's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Deborah

Deborah Haynes, Britain's leading security and defence journalist, brings two decades of frontline reporting experience from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine to deliver rare, first-hand insights into today's most complex geopolitical challenges. Book this award-winning Sky News editor to give your team invaluable perspective on how global conflicts impact business operations through compelling, authoritative storytelling that will transform your understanding of security preparedness.

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Trusted by Sky News

Featured Projects

Deborah Haynes - The Wargame podcast cover
Deborah Haynes - Into The Grey Zone podcast cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Deborah Haynes for my next event?
Email deborah.haynes@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Deborah's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

Deborah Haynes draws on first-hand frontline reporting from conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine to frame geopolitical and security analysis, using eyewitness accounts and investigative findings to contextualise threats for business audiences.

What is Deborah Haynes's speaking style like?
Deborah Haynes draws on first-hand frontline reporting from conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine to frame geopolitical and security analysis, using eyewitness accounts and investigative findings to contextualise threats for business audiences.

Deborah Haynes draws on first-hand frontline reporting from conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine to frame geopolitical and security analysis, using eyewitness accounts and investigative findings to contextualise threats for business audiences.

What topics does Deborah Haynes specialise in?
Deborah Haynes specialises in national security, geopolitical conflict, and defence and information warfare. She is Security and Defence Editor at Sky News, previously served as the first female Defence Editor at The Times, and received the Amnesty International UK Media Award and inaugural Bevins Prize in 2008 for her investigations into Iraqi interpreters.

Deborah Haynes specialises in national security, geopolitical conflict, and defence and information warfare. She is Security and Defence Editor at Sky News, previously served as the first female Defence Editor at The Times, and received the Amnesty International UK Media Award and inaugural Bevins Prize in 2008 for her investigations into Iraqi interpreters.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.