Availability dot

Available to book

Speaker & intelligence expert

Julian Fisher

Transform leadership and risk management with Julian Fisher, speaker and intelligence expert. Julian works with organisations to apply espionage techniques in business, enhance strategic decision-making, and build influence, delivering unique insights from his diplomatic and intelligence background.

Trusted by Africa Integrity Services, Channel 4, British Diplomatic Service

Julian Fisher, Speaker | Intelligence Expert & Author
Julian Fisher

Julian Fisher

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.

Get Julian's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Julian

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£11k–25k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Julian Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Julian Fisher's biography

At a glance

  • 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.

Check Julian's availability

Trusted by Africa Integrity Services, Channel 4, British Diplomatic Service

Testimonials

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.

Irini Saha

President, 93% Club

Featured Projects

Julian Fisher - Think Like A Spy book cover
Julian Fisher - Spies (Channel 4) book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Julian Fisher for my next event?

What is Julian Fisher's speaking style like?

What topics does Julian Fisher specialise in?

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.