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Keynote SpeakerCraig Oliver

Former Director of Politics and Communications to British PM, former Controller of BBC Global, Keynote Speaker on Leadership, Communications and Geopolitics, Moderator, Podcast Host

Sir Craig Oliver was the Director of Politics and Communications for the British Prime Minister, David Cameron for six years. He worked at the heart of No 10 Downing Street and was responsible for the Government’s strategy, messaging and campaigns. During that time Sir Craig was Director of Communications on... Read more

Watch Craig Oliver in action

Popular Talks by Craig Oliver

  • Communications Strategy
  • Government and Public Affairs
  • Purpose, Positioning and Narrative in a volatile world.
  • Reputation Management
  • Leadership
  • Geopolitics
  • Digital Leadership
  • Digital Transformation
  • Media

Biography

Sir Craig Oliver was the Director of Politics and Communications for the British Prime Minister, David Cameron for six years. He worked at the heart of No 10 Downing Street and was responsible for the Government’s strategy, messaging and campaigns. During that time Sir Craig was Director of Communications on a number of political teams, including the 2015 General Election – defying the polls and winning an unexpected overall majority.

Sir Craig’s day-to-day work inside No 10 included a radical overhaul of government communications, making them fit for the digital age. Leadership, communications strategy and digital transformation are among the themes he explores in his work as a Keynote Speaker, reflecting on the challenges in navigating what he’s coined “a 360 degree media world” at a time of extreme change and volatility. He was at David Cameron’s side as they faced a series of crises and offers sharp insights and fascinating anecdotes reflecting the unique position he held at the heart of government and public affairs. Before working with Mr Cameron, Sir Craig was a multi-award winning journalist, with jobs ranging from editing the BBC’s flagship television news programmes to Controller of BBC Global, responsible for the corporation’s TV, radio and online content around the world.

Famously, Sir Craig was the Director of Communications for the campaign to keep Britain in the European Union during the Brexit Referendum. Sir Craig wrote a bestselling book about the experience – “Unleashing Demons” – which was the inspiration behind the Channel 4 drama “Brexit: The Uncivil War” depicting Sir Craig and Dominic Cummings as the main protagonists, with Rory Kinnear and Benedict Cumberbatch playing their respective characters.

Sir Craig has appeared on Question Time and often finds himself on the other side of the camera as a broadcaster, commentator and podcast host and is in demand as a moderator and host for events where his expertise enables him to facilitate and augment panel discussions on the full range of issues and challenges faced in the UK and around the world. Sir Craig is Co-Global Head of Strategy and Reputation at FGS Global, working with some of the biggest businesses in the world. He is also a trustee of the Make a Wish charity.

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How to book Craig Oliver as a keynote speaker

How do I book Craig Oliver for a keynote speech?

You can book Craig Oliver through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Craig's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.

What are Craig Oliver's speaking fees?

Craig Oliver's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Craig tailored to your event.

What topics does Craig Oliver speak about?

Craig Oliver speaks on Brexit, Business & Management, Communication, Digital, Europe. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Craig to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Craig Oliver available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Craig Oliver for events worldwide, subject to Craig's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.

Does Craig Oliver deliver virtual or online keynotes?

Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Craig Oliver is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).

How long is a typical keynote by Craig Oliver?

Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Craig can accommodate.

Can Craig Oliver tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Craig Oliver on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Craig can offer.

What languages does Craig Oliver present in?

Craig Oliver delivers keynotes in English. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.

What makes Craig Oliver a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Craig Oliver's areas of expertise include Brexit, Business & Management, Communication, Digital, Europe. To get a clear sense of Craig's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.

What kind of events can Craig Oliver speak at?

Craig Oliver can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Brexit, Business & Management, Communication, Digital, Europe is relevant. Details of Craig's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.

Does Craig Oliver offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?

Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Craig Oliver is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Craig Oliver?

We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Craig Oliver, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Craig's current availability for your dates.