Availability dot

Available to book

Geopolitical expert & journalist

John Kampfner

Gain strategic clarity on geopolitical risk and global trade with John Kampfner, foreign correspondent and international affairs keynote speaker. John equips business and policy audiences to navigate geopolitical tensions, European politics, and Russia-Ukraine dynamics. Bestselling author of eight books and Senior Associate Fellow at RUSI.

Trusted by Royal United Services Institute

John Kampfner, Speaker | Foreign Affairs Expert
John Kampfner

John Kampfner

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£6–10k

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

Get John's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book John

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£6–10k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire John Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

John Kampfner's biography

At a glance

  • Author, journalist, and foreign affairs specialist of 40 years
  • Bestselling author of 8 books shortlisted for Orwell Prize
  • Former editor of New Statesman with 30-year circulation highs
John Kampfner is an award-winning author, journalist, and foreign affairs specialist who draws on four decades of experience at the frontline of international politics to help organisations make sense of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape. As Berlin and then Moscow bureau chief for the Daily Telegraph in the early 90s, John reported on events from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the war in Ukraine. He went on to work at the BBC across the Today programme and Newsnight, before becoming Editor of the New Statesman from 2005 to 2008, taking the magazine to its highest circulation in 30 years. John is the author of eight books, including the Sunday Times bestsellers Why the Germans Do It Better and Blair's Wars, and Freedom for Sale, shortlisted for the Orwell Prize. A Senior Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, he writes regularly for the Guardian, Foreign Policy, and Politico, and continues to make programmes for BBC Radio 4 and the World Service. John combines firsthand reporting with deep political analysis across Europe, Russia, the UK. His experience in journalism, diplomacy, cultural leadership, and policy gives audiences a practical understanding of geopolitical risk, democratic change, populism, trade tensions, and shifting global alliances. He explains complex issues clearly, linking political developments directly to business strategy, investment decisions, and institutional resilience. Audiences leave his sessions better equipped to read the international environment, more confident in connecting global developments to their own strategic context, and with a clearer framework for anticipating what comes next. Book John Kampfner to gain a sharper understanding of where geopolitical tensions are heading and what they mean for trade and investment.

John's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

International Politics: The Impact On Global Business
In this talk, John Kampfner dissects the intentions of China, Russia and other hostile forces. What are the next steps? What can and should the West do? What about the role of the growing force of non-aligned states, the likes of India, Brazil and South Africa in navigating the many hotspots that affect trade and investment decisions?
Germany In The Midst Of A Generational Change
The Germans are praised for their skilled engineering, exporting prowess and R&D. But they’ve fallen behind on digitisation and innovation. A country that prides itself on its prudence is now having to find tens of billions to upgrade its armed forces - and to change the national mindset at a time of high tension. In this keynote, John Kampfner looks at the impact on Germany today and what the future holds for a country recognised as powerhouse of Europe for many years.
Putin – The Threat, Grievance And What It All Means
2004 saw John Kampfner engaged in a bizarre encounter, a four-hour diatribe in which Putin set out his grievances towards the West. In this keynote, John explains Putin’s obsession with Russia’s great power past and his refusal to allow other Slav nations (notably Ukraine) their independence. He also considers Putin’s next likely incursions into Europe and whether he can be stopped at home or abroad.
40 Elections That Will Shape Global Politics In 2024
Half the world’s population, theoretically at least, will vote in 2024. Yet this “super-year” comes at a time when post-war democracy has never been more in jeopardy. This tour d’horizon takes in the conduct and impact of elections in populous states such as India, Indonesia and Mexico, to the big votes in the US and the EU that are in the grip of a new populist wave. John Kampfner discusses the impact this will have on global politics.

Why we recommend booking John

John brings four decades of frontline reporting from Berlin to Moscow, translating geopolitical shifts into trade and investment implications that matter now. He offers exactly the kind of informed, independent perspective that boards and leadership teams need.

Check John's availability

Trusted by Royal United Services Institute

Testimonials

John was a great speaker, tailored to the audience and encouraged active participation. He even welcomed attendees to challenge his views. Confident and well spoken. It was a pleasure having him speak.

WBD

John delivered an insightful presentation about global influences on the European market as well as local factors. It created lots of debate in the audience, which is exactly what I wanted.

FEDESSA

Smart, provocative, entertaining.

Sky News

Featured Projects

John Kampfner - Braver New World book cover
John Kampfner - Blair’s Wars book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book John Kampfner for my next event?

What is John Kampfner's speaking style like?

John Kampfner draws on firsthand reporting experience — including a four-hour encounter with Putin in 2004 — to ground geopolitical analysis in direct observation, then connects those events to business strategy and investment decisions.

What topics does John Kampfner specialise in?

John Kampfner speaks on geopolitical risk and global business, Russia and Putin's strategic intentions, and Germany's economic and political transformation. He is a former Berlin and Moscow bureau chief for the Daily Telegraph, BBC broadcaster, and editor of the New Statesman, and the author of Sunday Times bestsellers including Why the Germans Do It Better and Blair's Wars.

What information do I need to provide to book a speaker?

To get the sharpest shortlist, share your event date, audience, format, key objectives, and budget. A rough idea is enough to start. The more context PepTalk has, the more precisely the team can match a speaker to your brief. Send it via getapeptalk.com.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

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.

How do I book a speaker with PepTalk?

Booking a speaker with PepTalk starts with a short brief: your event, audience, date, budget, and format. Send it through getapeptalk.com or hello@getapeptalk.com and you'll get a shortlist within 24 hours. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, fees, travel, and logistics end to end.

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.

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.

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.

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.