Availability dot

Available to book

Political analyst & Westminster insider

Tim Shipman

Transform political uncertainty into strategic advantage with Tim Shipman, Britain's leading political analyst and Westminster insider. Tim equips organisations with actionable intelligence on UK-US political developments and regulatory impacts. Award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and trusted commentator for global business leaders navigating political complexity.

Trusted by Artemis, The Spectator, Sunday Times

Tim Shipman, Speaker | Political Editor & Author
Tim Shipman

Tim Shipman

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 Tim's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Tim

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£6–10k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Tim Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Tim Shipman's biography

At a glance

  • Political Editor of The Spectator magazine
  • Author of four definitive books on British politics
  • Award-winning political reporter and commentator
Tim Shipman is Political Editor of The Spectator magazine, bringing unparalleled insight into British politics through his extensive network of Westminster contacts and analytical expertise honed over two decades covering political upheaval. As former Chief Political Commentator at the Sunday Times, Tim authored four definitive books on post-Brexit British politics that sold over 150,000 copies. His journalistic excellence has earned him fourteen major award nominations, including the rare distinction of winning both political reporter and political commentator of the year. Tim translates complex political developments into actionable intelligence for organisations navigating uncertainty. His coverage of seven general elections, three referendums, and four US elections—including a rare interview with Donald Trump—provides clients with contextual understanding of how political decisions impact business strategy and regulatory environments across the UK-US corridor. Audiences leave Tim's presentations with a clear grasp of Westminster's hidden power dynamics, practical insights into upcoming political shifts affecting their industry, and entertaining behind-the-scenes stories that illuminate how political decisions are really made. Book Tim for your next event to gain the insider perspective that only Britain's most connected political journalist can deliver.

Tim's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Tim

Tim Shipman brings unparalleled political insight to your organisation through his extensive Westminster network, award-winning analysis, and ability to translate complex political developments into actionable business intelligence. Book Tim for your next event to gain the insider perspective that only Britain's most connected political journalist can deliver.

Check Tim's availability

Trusted by Artemis, The Spectator, Sunday Times

Testimonials

Fantastic, we really enjoyed having him.

Artemis

There are those sessions at conferences which have something special - and if I knew the precise recipe for these and how to bottle it, I would! Your session had something special and was the talk of the conference. You covered a subject key to our future - and of course whilst we all remain optimistic, I think from your session we emerged a little wiser and with a greater urgency to prepare for what might emerge from the Year of Elections.

AIRMIC

Thank you to Tim for joining us. A very interesting and well received speech which was thoroughly enjoyed by our guests.

Rede Partners

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Tim Shipman for my next event?

What is Tim Shipman's speaking style like?

Tim Shipman draws on two decades of Westminster reporting and a network of senior political contacts to walk audiences through the behind-the-scenes mechanics of how political decisions are made, grounding analysis in first-hand accounts from his coverage of seven general elections, three referendums, and four US elections.

What topics does Tim Shipman specialise in?

Tim Shipman speaks on Westminster power dynamics, UK-US political relations, and the impact of political decisions on business and regulatory environments. He is Political Editor of The Spectator and former Chief Political Commentator at the Sunday Times, having authored four books on post-Brexit British politics that sold over 150,000 copies and won both political reporter and political commentator of the year awards.

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.