Julian Fisher's biography
- Former British Intelligence Operative and espionage specialist
- Author of Think Like a Spy and lead trainer on Channel 4 series Spies
- Speaker on leadership, teamwork, interpersonal skills, risk, and influence
Julian Fisher is a private intelligence practitioner and author of Think Like a Spy, a guide to applying espionage techniques in everyday life. With over two decades of experience across diplomacy, security, and intelligence, Julian draws on his deep knowledge of international affairs and human behaviour to deliver insights into influence, leadership, risk, and much more.
Julian's story began in inner-city Birmingham, where he was raised in one of Britain’s most deprived postcodes. Early life presented profound challenges, but, while in hospital, conversations with an Iranian refugee altered his outlook on life. Her story left Julian determined to strive for academic, personal and professional fulfilment.
Julian went on to study Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Oxford University, before entering the British Diplomatic Service. His work took him across East and Southern Africa, and later into the private security sector, where he operated in high-risk environments including Somalia, Congo, and South Sudan. Julian later founded Africa Integrity Services, a private intelligence company focused on the continent.
In 2017, Julian became widely known as the lead trainer on Channel 4’s Spies, which tested civilians on their potential for espionage. His published work draws on the same experience to help readers understand and ethically apply the principles used by intelligence officers, skills such as persuasion, elicitation, and alliance-building.
Through his talks, Julian also offers commentary on international risk, privacy, and threat intelligence, while focusing on the psychology behind espionage and what it can teach us about communication and collaboration. He brings practical knowledge, hard-won wisdom, and sharp insight to each talk, underpinned by a belief that the human element remains at the heart of intelligence work. Julian's sessions blend storytelling with applicable insight, offering a rare window into a world few people experience directly.
Julian's showreel and videos
Topics, sessions and talks
Think Like a Spy: How Spies Achieve the Unimaginable and How You Can Too
Julian Fisher explores how intelligence officers persuade people to do the seemingly impossible - sharing secrets and risking everything. Drawing from espionage psychology, he reveals the structured techniques spies use to influence, build trust and drive change. With stories from the field and personal experience, Julian offers tools for applying these skills in everyday life, from personal development to professional negotiation.
The Business of Spying: Lessons from a Parallel World
Through the lens of espionage, Julian Fisher examines how business leaders can develop sharper interpersonal awareness, navigate diverse cultural settings and grow authentic client relationships. He draws parallels between the motivations of intelligence agents and the dynamics of professional partnerships. Audiences gain practical approaches to trust-building, persuasion and communication, drawn from the shadowy world of spies.
The Spy’s Essential Toolkit for Surviving Almost Anything, Almost Anywhere
With wit and lived experience, Julian Fisher lifts the lid on the practical skills spies use to survive unpredictable situations. From managing chaos in unfamiliar terrain to navigating power dynamics in hostile settings, this talk blends humour with insight. Behind the anecdotes lies a serious exploration of resilience, adaptability and creative problem-solving in the face of uncertainty.
007: Licenced to Manage Risk
Based on his work in conflict zones and volatile environments, Julian Fisher explores how intelligence professionals assess and manage risk in real time. Blending high-stakes stories with practical advice, this talk reveals how to think like a spy when facing danger or making critical decisions. With style and sharp delivery, Julian encourages audiences to reassess how they perceive threats, uncertainty and control.
Why we recommend booking Julian
Unlock your team's potential with Julian Fisher, intelligence specialist and author of Think Like A Spy. With over 20 years of experience as an intelligence specialist, his insights on influence and leadership can transform your business. Book now for impactful insights.
Jules delivered an engaging talk with us at Saffery, as part of our annual Social Mobility Month programme. We were attracted to Jules as a speaker because we felt he could share some crucial life skills and insights to support colleagues in their professional development, as well as engage with us on a more personal level through his own powerful story of social mobility. He delivered brilliantly on all aspects, leaving those in the room and tuning in online, with practical tips and pearls of wisdom for being more present humans and better leaders, whatever level in our career.
Clare Morgan
Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, Saffery
Thank you for a wonderful talk. The whole team thoroughly enjoyed the session, and it prompted a lot of interesting discussions at drinks afterwards and in the office.
Julian is an exceptional speaker-engaging, articulate, and thought-provoking. His ability to connect with the audience and deliver compelling insights makes him a standout in public speaking. He brings both expertise and charisma to the stage, leaving a lasting impact on his audience.
President, 93% Club
President, 93% Club
