Karen Blackett CBE
UK President of WPP and U.K. CEO of GroupM, the world’s leading media investment company
*Fees are a guide only. Exact cost will be dependent on requirements and are subject to change.
About Karen Blackett
In 2014, Karen topped The Power List, being the first businesswoman to come in at number 1.
As a long-term champion of the Creative Industry sector, Karen was a Non-Executive Director for Creative UK, a position she held from 2016-2025. Karen was appointed Chancellor of The University of Portsmouth in 2017, the first Alumna to become Chancellor, and was a former Non-Executive Director of The UK Government Cabinet Office.
In 2018, Karen was appointed Race Equality Champion for business by Prime Minister Theresa May.
Karen founded The Black Equity Organisation in 2021, alongside David Lammy MP, David Olusoga OBE, Kwame Kwei-Armah OBE, Ric Lewis and Dame Vivian Hunt. BEO is an independent, national Black civil rights organisation created to dismantle systemic racism in Britain, drive generational change and deliver better lived experiences for Black people across the country
In June 2022, Karen was appointed a Non-Executive Director for Diageo (a FTSE Top 10 company)
Karen has been awarded honorary doctorates from The University of Portsmouth, Southbank University, Reading University, Ravensbourne University and is a Fellow of Kings College London.
In April 2024, Karen was awarded Freedom of the City of London and received a CBE for Services to Advertising and The Creative Industries in the January 2025 King’s New Years honours.
In May 2025, Karen joined The Board of The British Fashion Council, and in June 2025 was appointed Non-Executive Director at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
In April 2026, Karen also accepted an invitation to join Sky’s Diversity Advisory Council (DAC). She brings deep insight, experience and constructive challenge to strengthen their approach to diversity, equity and inclusion.
To book Keynote Speaker Karen Blackett CBE, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com
Authenticity & Success: Creating an Exceptional Culture
Some teams consistently outperform others. This session explores how creating a culture where people feel able to be themselves drives engagement, innovation, wellbeing and long-term success.
Unlocking & Understanding: The Customer
The key to competitive advantage lies in truly understanding people. Discover how changing consumer behaviours, expectations and values are reshaping the customer landscape and what organisations must do to stay relevant.
World-Class Leadership: What Does That Mean?
What separates a leader from a manager? This thought-provoking keynote examines the qualities of exceptional leadership and how to inspire trust, influence behaviour and unite people behind a shared vision.
Future-Proofing Your Business in the 21st Century
Diversity is not just a social imperative; it is a business advantage. Explore how embracing difference, understanding demographic shifts and responding to an increasingly diverse consumer base can help organisations thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Personal Branding: Why It’s a Must
Your personal brand is one of your most valuable assets. Learn why reputation, visibility and authenticity matter more than ever, and how building a strong personal brand can accelerate career success and open new opportunities.
Client Feedback
"When she talks, everyone listens!"
Windsor Leadership
"One of the most inspiring presentations I have seen in many years...the themes of fairness, equality and diversity were extremely relevant to our own special mission."
Grapevine
"In a world of rapid change, Karen reminded us that leading with empathy and agility isn’t just effective, it’s essential. Thank you for your extremely inspiring talk."
TechComms
"Karen shared insights from her time at companies including Diageo and Creative UK about driving business growth through value creation, team leadership, and building high-performing work cultures. Thank you, Karen, for your invaluable perspective!"
Evercore
"Karen Blackett CBE delivered a truly powerful and thought-provoking keynote at the IoIC Festival, highlighting the vital role of internal communication in shaping trusted, high-performing organisations. Her message underscored the importance of building environments where people feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. Karen’s session was eloquent, impactful, and grounded in authenticity."
IoIC Festival
