Sir Tim Smit KBE

Sir Tim Smit read Archaeology and Anthropology at Durham University. This began a lifelong passion for regeneration and working to put things into good heart.

Following occupations embracing his many interests from Archaeology through music to wreck diving, Rare Breed animal husbandry and building restoration, in 1990 He ‘discovered’ and then restored ‘The Lost Gardens of Heligan’ with John Nelson. Of which he remains a Director. This is now one of the UK’s best loved gardens having been named ‘Garden of the Year’ by BBC Countryfile Awards (Mar 2018).  Tim’s book ‘The Lost Gardens of Heligan’ won Book of the Year in 1997.

Eden began as a dream in 1995 and opened its doors just five years later – greeted by much of the press as ‘the eighth wonder of the world.’ Since then millions of people have come to enjoy a once sterile pit turned into a cradle of life. It is both a showcase for world-class horticulture and an architectural symbol of human endeavour.

Tim is now focusing on overseas projects, including plans to develop a giant botanical garden in an old industrial city in southern China. In his talks Tim highlights the need to lead by example, to stick to principles but move out of your comfort zone, to meet challenges head on, and “to dare to be ambitious.”

A leading authority on business, environment, social issues and tourism, Tim Smit is a seasoned speaker at many events across the country, due to his vast knowledge in an array of sectors. At events he is down to earth and gives audiences an insight into the makings of a successful venture and the characteristics required in order to achieve.

• Change Management
• Entrepreneurship
• The Environment
•  Corporate Social Responsibility