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Available to book

Political strategist & podcast host

Alastair Campbell

Gain up-to-the-minutes insights into our world today with Alastair Campbell, speaker, political strategist and The Rest is Politics podcast hosts. Alastair works with organisations to master crisis management, leadership and media relations, delivering powerful analysis as Tony Blair's former Director of Communications and award-winning author.

Trusted by Standard Life, Hurree, BGF, Citywire

Alastair Campbell
Alastair Campbell

Alastair Campbell

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£26k–50k

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

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£26k–50k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Alastair Campbell's biography

At a glance

  • Podcast host of the chart-topping The Rest is Politics
  • Expert in strategy and crisis management
  • Former advisor to Tony Blair of the Labour Government

Alastair Campbell is one of the UK’s most recognisable political keynote speakers, best known as Tony Blair’s former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy. A central figure in the Labour Party’s “New Labour” project, he led the communications that secured the historic 1997 election landslide.


Drawing on his career as press secretary, editor, presenter, and political strategist, Alastair delivers powerful insights on strategy, change management, media relations, crisis management, and leadership. His candid style, humour, and willingness to share controversial viewpoints make him a sought-after speaker for corporate events, conferences, and public speaking engagements.


Alastair is also an award-winning author of over twenty books, including the Campbell Diaries series, the Sunday Times bestseller Winners: And How They Succeed, and But What Can I Do? (2023). His diaries on the Blair years, Afghanistan, and Iraq remain essential volumes for anyone interested in politics and media. He has also published three novels, with All In The Mind currently in TV production.


Today, Alastair co-hosts the chart-topping podcast The Rest Is Politics with fellow political expert and speaker Rory Stewart, where they continue to shape public debate with unfiltered honesty. Their podcast is aimed at revealing how governments work, and "disagreeing agreeably". He remains a prominent media commentator, editor, and celebrity guest across TV, radio, and print.


Beyond politics, Alastair speaks openly about his own battle with depression and mental illness, making mental health a central theme of his talks. He regularly explores the intersection of politics and mental health, using his own story to encourage resilience and reduce stigma. He is also father to Grace Campbell, a rising comedic star.


From Brexit to geopolitics, from mental health to media strategy, Alastair Campbell captivates audiences whether addressing large conferences, financial services summits, or in interactive Q&A sessions. His unique profile as a politics insider, award-winning author, and communicator ensures every event is thought-provoking and memorable.


Enquire now to view Alastair Campbell’s profile and contact us for his keynote speaker availability.

Alastair's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Strategic Leadership with Alastair Campbell

Labour Party strategist, award-winning author, and keynote speaker Alastair Campbell shares powerful lessons on strategy, leadership, crisis management, and mental health, drawing on his career in politics and media to inspire success at corporate events and beyond.

Mental Health Insights

Alastair Campbell, the youngest national news editor in Britain, faced a life-altering nervous breakdown at 29 due to addiction and pressure, leading to his hospitalization and diagnosis with depression. After rebuilding his career, he managed Tony Blair's media operations and now advocates for mental health awareness globally. In his book "Winners," Alastair highlights influential figures with mental illness, promoting understanding and appreciation. Attendees will learn about the significance of mental health and the contributions of those who navigate its challenges.

The Rest Is Politics

Alastair Campbell delves into contemporary news and politics, focusing on UK affairs while also addressing international issues. This talk aims to illuminate government workings and promote respectful debate around modern politics. Attendees will learn about the intricacies of political discourse and gain insights into current global events.

The Science of Winning

Alastair Campbell, political analyst, author and strategist, explores the essence of winning in his best-selling book, "Winners." He analyzes successful figures in sports, business, and politics, revealing key traits such as strategy, leadership, teamwork, boldness, and resilience. By examining icons like Clinton, Merkel, Brady, and Wintour, Campbell illustrates how anyone can adopt the mindset and skills of winners. Attendees will learn actionable insights to enhance their own success and navigate challenges effectively.

Why we recommend booking Alastair

Book Alastair Campbell to give your team rare insights on leadership, strategy, and resilience, drawn from his experience at the heart of UK politics and media. Secure a memorable event with a speaker who combines candid storytelling, humour, and expertise on both high-stakes decision-making and mental health. Enquire now to check his availability.

Check Alastair's availability

Trusted by Standard Life, Hurree, BGF, Citywire

Testimonials

Alastair's speech was hugely appreciated, as was his good humour with guests.

Standard Life

He was absolutely outstanding and received an incredible response—he truly went down a storm.

Chief of Staff, Hurree

Controversial, thought-provoking and highly entertaining, Alastair gave a refreshingly candid insight into past and present political leaders and events that captivated our guests.

EY

Featured Projects

Alastair Campbell - The Rest Is Politics podcast cover
Alastair Campbell - But What Can I Do? book cover
Alastair Campbell - Better To Live: How I Learned To Survive Depression book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Alastair Campbell for my next event?

Email alastair.campbell@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 Alastair'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 Alastair Campbell's speaking style like?

Alastair Campbell draws on first-hand political experience from his time as Tony Blair's Director of Communications to ground his talks in real-world case studies, covering strategy, crisis management, and media relations. He also uses personal narrative, referencing his own breakdown and subsequent diagnosis with depression, to address mental health themes with direct biographical evidence.

What topics does Alastair Campbell specialise in?

Alastair Campbell's sessions cover strategic leadership and crisis management, mental health awareness, and contemporary UK and international politics. He is best known as Tony Blair's Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy, a role in which he led the communications behind Labour's 1997 general election landslide.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

No. PepTalk adds no booking fee, so you pay the speaker's fee and nothing beyond it. The service, from shortlist through to contracts and event-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, PepTalk can agree preferential rates with your procurement team.

What happens after I send a brief?

Share your event date, audience, format, objectives and budget, and PepTalk sends a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours. Each suggestion comes with a profile, a fee and a recommendation on the strongest fit. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, travel and logistics through to event day.

What does the typical fee range mean?

The typical fee range is the speaker's standard in-person fee in their home market, shown in their local currency. It moves with format, location, date and session length: virtual sessions and shorter slots usually cost less, while international travel and peak dates cost more. Send your brief to PepTalk and the team will confirm the exact fee in your currency.

Have all the speakers on the website worked with PepTalk before?

Not all of them, and it makes no difference to your booking. PepTalk's network of 15,000+ speakers covers talent the team works with directly alongside speakers represented by agents and agencies worldwide. PepTalk approaches the speaker, negotiates the fee and handles contracting either way.

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.

How far in advance should I book a speaker?

Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.