Sir John Sawers

Sir John Sawers is one of the United Kingdom's most distinguished authorities on international security and diplomacy, having served a five-year tenure as the Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6). His career at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office saw him hold pivotal roles during major global transitions, including time in South Africa during its move to democracy and serving as the Foreign Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Tony Blair. His experience spans high-stakes environments in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and Egypt, alongside a significant post as the British Permanent Representative to the United Nations. During his time leading MI6, Sir John managed the intelligence response to the rise of cyber warfare, tensions with Russia, and various conflicts in the Middle East. He famously became the first sitting Chief to deliver a public address, engaging with the Society of Editors on the balance between national secrecy and human rights. Beyond his public service, he has significant expertise in the private sector, advising major financial and energy corporations on risk management and the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape. An exceptional communicator, Sir John offers audiences a rare perspective on the intersections of global politics, security, and internal organisational leadership. He provides a sophisticated analysis of how modern institutions must adapt to technological disruption and shifting public expectations while navigating an increasingly volatile world. On stage, Sir John Sawers is best known for talks on Risk & Risk Management, Politics & Geopolitics and Leadership. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room. Their work resonates with leaders across Charity & Non-Profit and Politics & Government, where the themes translate directly into team decisions, customer experience and growth strategy. Sir John Sawers is regularly booked for Business Speaker and Conference Speaker, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A. Based in UK, Sir John Sawers travels internationally for engagements. To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how Sir John Sawers would approach your audience.