Availability dot

Available to book

Foreign affairs columnist & diplomat

Roger Boyes

Transform geopolitical complexity into strategic advantage with Roger Boyes, The Time's Chief Foreign Affairs Columnist and Diplomatic Editor. Roger equips organisations with actionable intelligence on global risks and emerging trends, leveraging his experience advising UK foreign secretaries and interviewing world leaders from Angela Merkel to Nobel Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa.

Trusted by The Times, Number 10, UK foreign secretaries

Roger Boyes, Speaker | Global Affairs Columnist
Roger Boyes

Roger Boyes

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

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

Get Roger's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Roger

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Roger Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Roger Boyes's biography

At a glance

  • Chief Foreign Affairs Columnist and Diplomatic Editor for The Times
  • Former advisor to three foreign secretaries and to Number 10
  • A must-read columnist for decision-makers in the UK, the US, and Brussels
Roger Boyes is a global affairs expert whose influential weekly column for The Times provides decision-makers with clear, precise analysis of geopolitical risks and emerging crises shaping our world. As Chief Foreign Affairs Columnist and Diplomatic Editor, Roger has advised three foreign secretaries and Number 10. His extensive interview portfolio includes established leaders like Angela Merkel and Mike Pompeo, alongside revolutionaries-turned-statesmen such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa, about whom he has written a biography. Roger brings unparalleled insight to organisations navigating today's complex geopolitical landscape. His firsthand experience covering pivotal historical moments, from the 1989 revolutions and collapse of communism to the Balkan wars, enables him to identify patterns and anticipate global shifts that impact business strategy, investment decisions, and risk management frameworks. Roger's broad reporting over the years, including hunting Nazi war criminals in the Baltics, long lunches with Bill Gates and Sir John Sawers, and a week spent in Europe’s last leper colony, further make for colourful and thought-provoking anecdotes. Audiences gain practical understanding of how international relations directly affect business environments, concrete frameworks for assessing geopolitical risk in strategic planning, and actionable intelligence on emerging global trends before they become mainstream news. Book Roger for a thought-provoking analysis that transforms abstract global challenges into clear strategic opportunities for your organisation.

Roger's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Polycrisis: An Angry World
For over ten years, Roger Boyes has penned a compelling global affairs column for The Times, exploring what he terms the polycrisis: the cumulative impact of issues like governance breakdown in the Middle East, mass migration to Europe, rising populism, and the interplay of climate change with resource conflicts and supply chain control. Attendees will gain insights into the failures of institutions and the accelerating pace of global change, prompting critical questions about the future of governance and society.
Economic Winners And Losers: Investing In Between
Roger Boyes advises British, German, and US decision-makers to broaden their perspective beyond the US-China rivalry. He emphasises the importance of recognising the growth potential of emerging economies like India, Indonesia, and South Korea, which face unique challenges and opportunities. Roger questions whether these nations must choose between aligning with Xi or Trump and explores the choices available in the first half of the 21st century. Attendees will learn about strategic investment opportunities in these pivotal countries.
The Surveillance State
Roger Boyes began his journalism career as a cub reporter in Cold War Moscow and spent the 1980s in communist Poland under martial law, gaining him a breadth of experience few Western reporters have had. With these unique insights into dictatorship, he shares his observations of the resurgence of authoritarianism, even in Western democracies, marked by mass deportations, militarised borders, and censorship. Roger will explore the limits of liberty and the impact of advanced AI on the surveillance state. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of these pressing issues and their implications for freedom.
The Future Of War
Roger Boyes has spent years touring military academies in around the world, giving him first-hand insights into how future officers are being trained for modern warfare. He highlights the rapid evolution of tactics, particularly as the Ukrainian army adapts to combat against Russia and Israel engages multiple adversaries simultaneously. Roger emphasises the importance of military technology and a proactive leadership mindset. Attendees will learn how to prepare for high-stakes situations and adapt strategies in today's media-sensitive environment.
What’s Next? Geopolitics And The Global Outlook
As we step into a turbulent geopolitical landscape, understanding global risks isn't optional—it's essential. From elections in the U.S. and Europe to tensions in Asia and the Middle East, the ripple effects on markets, supply chains, and regulation are real. In this keynote, Roger Boyes, foreign affairs columnist and seasoned analyst, unpacks what leaders need to know to stay informed, resilient, and ready to pivot.

Why we recommend booking Roger

With unparalleled insight from advising three foreign secretaries and interviewing world leaders from Angela Merkel to Nobel Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa, Roger Boyes transforms complex geopolitical challenges into strategic opportunities for organisations navigating today's uncertain landscape. Book this influential Times columnist to gain actionable intelligence on emerging global trends that will directly impact your business strategy and risk management framework.

Check Roger's availability

Trusted by The Times, Number 10, UK foreign secretaries

Featured Projects

Roger Boyes - Meltdown Iceland book cover
Roger Boyes - Seduced by Hitler book cover
Roger Boyes - AfterWords book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Roger Boyes for my next event?
Email roger.boyes@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 Roger'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.
What is Roger Boyes's speaking style like?

Roger Boyes draws on decades of firsthand reporting — from Cold War Moscow and martial law Poland to the 1989 revolutions and the Balkan wars — to construct a pattern-recognition framework that connects historical precedent to current geopolitical risk, translating abstract global shifts into concrete strategic implications for business and investment decisions.

What topics does Roger Boyes specialise in?

Roger Boyes speaks on the polycrisis and institutional failure, investment strategy in emerging economies beyond the US-China axis, and the resurgence of authoritarianism and the surveillance state. He serves as Chief Foreign Affairs Columnist and Diplomatic Editor for The Times, where he has written a weekly global affairs column for over ten years, and has previously advised three foreign secretaries and Number 10.

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.

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.