The Official Top 25 Artificial Intelligence Speakers to Hire Online for Your Virtual Event

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an AI Speaker?

Artificial intelligence is no longer just hype – it’s an essential part of modern business and life. According to recent surveys, 76% of employees believe gaining AI skills is key to staying competitive in their careers, while two-thirds of UK hiring managers would bypass candidates who lack those skills. Early adopters of AI are already reaping rewards: companies have seen customer satisfaction climb nearly 20%, and every £1 invested in AI returns around £3.50 in value. Yet only about 52% of companies using AI provide formal AI training for their staff – leaving a significant knowledge gap. Hiring an expert AI keynote speaker can close that gap. A great AI speaker will translate these statistics into an actionable roadmap, empowering your audience to understand AI’s impact, adopt it responsibly, and stay ahead of industry trends. By demystifying complex tech and inspiring new ideas, an AI speaker can motivate your team to drive innovation and measurable growth.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Virtual Keynote Speaker?

Fees for a virtual AI keynote speaker in the UK typically range from £1,000 to £60,000, depending on the speaker’s profile, expertise and the event requirements. The best way to discover which keynote speakers fit your budget is to contact The Virtual Online Speakers Agency today! Our dedicated booking agents use their expertise to ensure the perfect speaker, who fits your expenditure, is selected for your event.

Who Are the Best AI Speakers Trending in the UK?

This official selection of the best AI speakers based in the UK is built on vetted data collected from 286 technology-themed events, exclusive speaker evaluations and comprehensive audience polls. Each speaker is a leading authority in artificial intelligence, from pioneering researchers and tech executives to futurists and innovators. Below are the top 25 AI speakers to consider for your virtual event, along with what they are best known for:

1. Allie Miller – Former Global Head of Machine Learning Business Development at Amazon Web Services (AWS)
2. Ayanna Howard – Trailblazing roboticist and Dean of Engineering at Ohio State University
3. Dame Wendy Hall – Regius Professor of Computer Science at University of Southampton and AI governance pioneer
4. David Hanson – Founder of Hanson Robotics and creator of the humanoid Sophia the Robot
5. Dr Kate Darling – MIT Media Lab researcher renowned for expertise in robot ethics
6. Ed Greig – Chief Disruptor at Deloitte Digital, leading expert in immersive and emerging technologies
7. Hannah Fry – Mathematician, BBC presenter and author making data and AI accessible to the public
8. Henry Ajder – Generative AI and deepfakes expert, advisor on synthetic media (BBC’s “The Future Will Be Synthesised” presenter)
9. Ilya Feige – Global Head of AI at Cerberus, former Director of AI at Faculty (UK), and Harvard-trained physicist
10. Inma Martinez – Digital pioneer and AI scientist, member of GPAI and advisor on tech transformation
11. Jeff Dean – Google’s Senior Fellow & SVP of Research (Head of Google AI) and co-founder of the Google Brain team
12. Joanna Shields – CEO of BenevolentAI and former UK Minister for Internet Safety and Security (Baroness Shields)
13. Kay Firth-Butterfield – Global leader in AI ethics, former Head of AI and Machine Learning at the World Economic Forum
14. Laurence Moroney – Lead Artificial Intelligence Advocate at Google and author educating developers on machine learning
15. Martin Ford – Futurist and bestselling author of Rise of the Robots, expert on AI’s impact on the workforce
16. Nina Schick – Author of DEEPFAKES: The Coming Infocalypse (world’s first book on generative AI) and leading generative AI expert
17. Orlando Machado – “World AI Top 50” innovator; first Chief Data Officer at LEGO and renowned data science leader
18. Rachel Botsman – Trust expert and author of Who Can You Trust?, exploring how technology (including AI) changes trust in society
19. Robert Hannigan – Former Director of GCHQ and cybersecurity authority, offering insights on AI in national security
20. Sam Altman – Co-founder & CEO of OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT and a pioneer in accessible AI technology
21. Sana Khareghani – Former Head of the UK Government’s Office for Artificial Intelligence, instrumental in national AI strategy
22. Sarah Armstrong-Smith – Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor (EMEA) and expert on cybersecurity and resilience in the age of AI
23. Toju Duke – Founder & CEO of Bedrock AI and recognised advocate for responsible, inclusive AI (former Google AI programs lead)
24. Utpal Chakraborty – CTO of IntellAI, ex-Head of AI at Yes Bank, and an AI Global Ambassador known for cutting-edge tech insights
25. Yann LeCun – Chief AI Scientist at Meta (Facebook) and Turing Award-winning pioneer of deep learning

1. Allie Miller

Allie Miller is a dynamic AI innovator and tech leader whose career spans some of the world’s biggest technology companies. As the former Global Head of Machine Learning Business Development for Startups & Venture Capital at AWS, Allie helped emerging companies leverage AI at scale. She also led a team of engineers at IBM Watson, where she built IBM’s first-ever multi-modal AI system – a groundbreaking achievement in the field. In addition to her corporate roles, Allie is a deep tech angel investor with a portfolio in generative AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and more, and has authored multiple AI guidebooks aimed at business leaders. Allie’s breadth of experience, from developing cutting-edge AI solutions to advising Fortune 500 firms, makes her an engaging and insightful keynote speaker. She excels at breaking down complex AI concepts for non-technical audiences and illuminating how businesses can innovate with AI. Recognised with accolades like Chief in Tech’s “Top 100 Women in Tech to Watch”, Allie Miller brings inspiration and real-world expertise to every talk – empowering audiences to embrace AI-driven transformation with confidence.

Allie’s Testimonials

“A fantastic storyteller and immensely creative.” – Director at a Fortune 500 Company

2. Ayanna Howard

Dr. Ayanna Howard is a trailblazer in robotics and artificial intelligence, celebrated for her innovative research and commitment to education. Currently the Dean of Engineering at Ohio State University, Ayanna has the distinction of being one of Forbes’ “Top 50 US Women in Tech”. She spent 11 years at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where she was a senior robotics researcher developing technologies for space exploration. As co-founder of Zyrobotics, Ayanna created AI-powered educational products to empower children with diverse abilities, reflecting her passion for inclusive technology. Ayanna’s career spans academia, industry, and entrepreneurship – from teaching as an adjunct professor at Georgia Tech to advising the U.S. government as a member of the National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee. A prolific author and respected thought leader on ethical AI, she has published over 250 papers and even penned the audiobook “Sex, Race, and Robots” examining bias in AI. As a speaker, Ayanna Howard is highly sought-after for her ability to explain complex AI and robotics concepts in plain language.

Ayanna’s Speaking Topics

• The Future of Work in the Age of AI
• Opportunities and Challenges of AI for Businesses
• Hacking the Human Bias in AI

Ayanna’s Testimonials

“Ayanna did a great job speaking plainly and intelligently about AI and its impact in the workplace. She was fantastic at engaging the audience on an otherwise highly technical subject.” – Baker McKenzie Event Organiser

3. Dame Wendy Hall

Dame Wendy Hall is a living legend in computer science and a pioneering voice in artificial intelligence policy. As Regius Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton, Dame Wendy has been at the forefront of tech research for over four decades. She played a key role in the development of the semantic web and has published extensive research on multimedia and hypermedia systems. Beyond academia, Dame Wendy co-chaired the UK government’s AI Review, which shaped the nation’s AI strategy, and she is a founding member of the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI). She has been named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to science and technology. Wendy’s extensive accolades include fellowships with the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering. As a speaker, Dame Wendy Hall offers unparalleled insight into the past, present, and future of AI – from foundational research to governance and ethics. She passionately advocates for diversity in tech and for the UK to harness AI responsibly. Audiences come away from her talks inspired by her depth of knowledge, historical perspective on innovation, and dedication to ensuring AI benefits society at large.

4. David Hanson

Dr. David Hanson is the visionary founder of Hanson Robotics, best known as the creator of Sophia the Robot, the world’s first robot to be granted citizenship. With a background as a Walt Disney Imagineer, David combines engineering with artistry to develop humanoid robots that are uncannily lifelike. His mission is to design robots with human-like empathy and expressiveness, pushing the boundaries of AI and robotics. David’s robots (including Sophia and her predecessors) have been showcased globally, sparking conversations about the future of AI in everyday life. He has been recognised by media and industry for his innovative contributions – from being listed in TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions to receiving awards in robotics competitions. As a keynote speaker, David Hanson captivates audiences with demonstrations of his robots and thought-provoking discussions about human-robot interaction. He explores how socially intelligent robots can revolutionise industries like healthcare, education, and customer service. David’s presentations are equal parts fascinating and accessible – filled with live demos, humor, and profound insights.

5. Dr Kate Darling

Dr. Kate Darling is a leading authority on robot ethics and human-robot interaction. A Research Scientist at the renowned MIT Media Lab, Kate explores the emotional and ethical questions that arise as robots increasingly integrate into our lives. She is the author of “The New Breed: What Our History with Animals Reveals About Our Future with Robots”, a groundbreaking book that examines how we relate to robots through the lens of human-animal relationships. Kate’s work has positioned her as a thoughtful voice on topics like whether robots deserve rights, how AI should be designed to align with human values, and how society can prepare for automation. Known for her engaging TED talks and media appearances, Dr. Darling communicates complex ideas in an approachable way – often bringing robot toys on stage to illustrate her points. Her friendly, interdisciplinary approach (drawing on law, social science, tech, and history) helps audiences grasp the societal impact of AI and robotics. As a speaker, Kate Darling encourages organisations to think beyond utility and efficiency, prompting deeper conversations about empathy, morality, and policy in the age of intelligent machines. Her insightful and forward-looking talks leave listeners with a fresh perspective on how we coexist with our “new breed” of technological companions.

6. Ed Greig

Ed Greig is a creative technologist and futurist who serves as the Chief Disruptor at Deloitte Digital. In this unique role, Ed leads teams in exploring and implementing cutting-edge technologies – from artificial intelligence and automation to virtual reality and the metaverse – to solve real business problems. With over a decade of experience at Deloitte, Ed has cultivated a reputation for his hands-on, experiment-driven approach to innovation (often demonstrated through live demos and hackathons). He is passionate about “falling in love with problems, not solutions,” and helps organisations identify the right tech tools to achieve their goals. Ed Greig’s expertise spans across industries, and he has guided clients through transformational projects involving AI-driven process improvements and data insights. As a keynote speaker, Ed’s energy and enthusiasm are infectious. He simplifies complex tech trends into understandable concepts and tangible examples, showing audiences how emerging technologies like AI can be embraced in fun and creative ways. Ed often uses storytelling and analogies to demystify topics like machine learning, and he shares behind-the-scenes stories of innovation in practice.

7. Hannah Fry

Professor Hannah Fry is an acclaimed British mathematician, author, and broadcaster who has become a prominent public voice on data science and AI. As the Professor of the Public Understanding of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge, Hannah is dedicated to making complex topics accessible to everyone. She is well known for her BBC documentaries – such as “The Secret Genius of Modern Life” and “The Joy of Data” – which delve into how algorithms and data shape our daily existence. Hannah is also the bestselling author of “Hello World: How to Be Human in the Age of Algorithms”, a book exploring the impacts of AI on society. In her research and talks, she tackles issues like algorithmic bias, AI ethics, and the ways technology influences human behavior. Hannah Fry’s talent for communication is one of her greatest strengths as a speaker. She uses clear explanations, real-world examples, and even humor to bring data to life. Whether discussing how AI makes decisions or how mathematicians model pandemics, she captivates audiences with her storytelling. Hannah’s enthusiasm for mathematics and technology is truly infectious. Event attendees come away with a deeper understanding of AI’s role in our world – and, importantly, feel empowered to engage with these technologies critically and thoughtfully, thanks to Hannah’s inspiring and down-to-earth approach.

Hannah’s Speaking Topics

• Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence
• AI’s Role in Decision-Making & Innovation
• The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World

8. Henry Ajder

Henry Ajder is a globally recognised expert on deepfakes and generative AI, known for his work in exposing the impacts of synthetic media on society. Henry has advised governments, big tech companies, and media organisations on the emerging threats and opportunities of AI-generated content. He rose to prominence as one of the lead authors of “The State of Deepfakes” report in 2019 – one of the first major studies to analyse the proliferation of deepfake technology. Henry also became the presenter of the BBC series “The Future Will Be Synthesised”, which explores the frontiers of AI and synthetic media. Beyond this, he heads Synthetic Futures, an initiative shaping a positive future for synthetic media, and has served on expert councils for institutions like Meta and the European Commission. As a speaker, Henry Ajder is both insightful and energetic. He has a gift for demystifying complex AI topics – such as how generative adversarial networks (GANs) create fake images and videos – and explaining why they matter. Henry’s talks cover everything from the technical basics of generative AI to the broader implications for trust, security, and creativity. He often shares captivating examples (some amusing, some alarming) of deepfakes in action, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

Henry’s Speaking Topics

• Combating Deepfake Threats
• Responsible AI Governance
• Generative AI 101

Henry’s Testimonials

“There’s no better speaker on generative AI than Henry!” – BBC

9. Ilya Feige

Dr. Ilya Feige is a leading machine learning scientist and AI strategist from the UK who straddles both academia and industry with ease. He is currently the Global Head of Artificial Intelligence at Cerberus Technology Solutions, where he applies AI to solve complex challenges in finance and business. Previously, Ilya was the Director of AI at Faculty (one of Britain’s top AI firms), where he built and led a team that delivered AI solutions for government and enterprise – notably he spearheaded the NHS’s COVID-19 resource modelling efforts, using AI to help allocate resources during the pandemic. Ilya holds a PhD in Theoretical Physics from Harvard University, and he’s earned prestigious awards for his research. His background includes time at McKinsey & Company, giving him a sharp sense of how to implement AI strategies effectively in organisations. As a speaker, Dr. Feige combines deep technical knowledge with practical business insight.

10. Inma Martinez

Inma Martinez is a renowned technology pioneer and AI scientist who has been at the forefront of digital innovation for over 20 years. Hailing from Spain and the UK, Inma has an impressive career advising leaders in both business and government on how to leverage data and AI for transformative growth. She was named one of the “Top 50 AI Influencers to Follow”, reflecting her status as a thought leader in the field. Inma is a member of the UK’s AI Council Innovation & Commercialisation group (under the Global Partnership on AI), providing strategic guidance on national AI initiatives. She has also served as an advisor to governments (for example, advising the government of Sarawak on a performance excellence initiative) and to major corporations like Goldman Sachs in her earlier career. As an entrepreneur, Inma co-founded one of the first AI-driven music streaming services in the early 2000s and has since been involved in numerous innovative projects, from fintech to smart cities. She is the author of several books, including “The Fifth Industrial Revolution” which explores AI’s role in the future economy, and “The Future of the Automotive Industry”.

Inma’s Speaking Topics

• Applied AI in Digital Transformation
• AI Pillars for the Future
• The Future of Work

11. Jeff Dean

Jeff Dean is a world-renowned computer scientist and one of the key figures behind Google’s rise as an AI superpower. Currently the Senior Fellow and Senior Vice President of Google Research and AI, Jeff leads Google’s AI division and long-term research efforts. He co-founded the Google Brain team, which was instrumental in advancing deep learning and neural network research at Google – innovations that have powered products like Google Translate, speech recognition, and countless others used by billions of people. Jeff’s fingerprints are on many of Google’s most significant technical achievements: he was a co-designer of the MapReduce framework and BigTable storage system, foundational technologies that enabled Google to handle massive data and scale. He has also contributed to the development of TensorFlow, the popular open-source machine learning library. Jeff Dean’s contributions to computing have been recognised with the highest honors, including election to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and the ACM’s SIGOPS Mark Weiser Award for innovation. As a speaker, Jeff Dean is highly sought after for his ability to explain cutting-edge AI trends with clarity and vision.  He also addresses misconceptions about AI, as in his popular TEDx talk “AI Isn’t as Smart as You Think – But It Could Be,” which highlights both the limitations and the promise of current AI.

12. Joanna Shields

Baroness Joanna Shields is a visionary tech leader and policymaker who bridges the worlds of Silicon Valley and government. She is currently the CEO of BenevolentAI, a pioneering London-based company that uses artificial intelligence to accelerate drug discovery and medical breakthroughs. Under her leadership, BenevolentAI has grown from a startup into a clinical-stage AI firm at the forefront of biotech innovation. Joanna’s career is studded with high-profile roles: she previously served as the UK’s Minister for Internet Safety and Security, becoming the first-ever person to hold that post, where she championed initiatives to make the online world safer for children and vulnerable users. Before her public service, Joanna held senior executive positions at companies like Google, Facebook, Bebo, and AOL, playing key roles in their international growth. She was the Managing Director of Facebook Europe and helped build communities online well before the age of social media ubiquity. Having been awarded an OBE and later made a Life Peer in the House of Lords, Joanna Shields is deeply committed to the ethical deployment of technology.

Joanna’s Speaking Topics

• Internet Safety & Cybersecurity
• Business Leadership in Tech
• The Future of AI in Society

13. Kay Firth-Butterfield

Kay Firth-Butterfield is a globally recognised leader in AI ethics and governance. She was the Head of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the World Economic Forum and a member of its executive committee, where she drove global initiatives to guide the responsible use of AI among governments and corporations. In fact, Kay was one of the world’s first chief AI ethics officers (appointed in 2014 at an AI startup), well before AI ethics became a mainstream concern. With a background as a barrister and judge, she uniquely combines legal expertise with deep technological insight. Kay co-founded AI Global and the Responsible AI Institute, organisations dedicated to developing practical frameworks and certifications for AI ethics. In 2023, Kay Firth-Butterfield was honored as a TIME100 Impact Award recipient for her work in shaping AI governance worldwide. Now the CEO of Good Tech Advisory, she continues to advise businesses and policymakers on integrating AI in ways that are safe, transparent, and equitable. As a speaker, Kay Firth-Butterfield is eloquent and passionate about the societal implications of AI. She speaks about topics like AI governance, the importance of diversity in AI development, and how to avoid bias in algorithms.

Kay’s Speaking Topics

• AI Governance, Standards and Policy
• Responsible AI, Fairness and Accountability
• Board-level Risk and Oversight

14. Laurence Moroney

Laurence Moroney is best known as the Lead AI Advocate at Google, where he helps developers around the world learn and leverage artificial intelligence. A gifted educator and communicator, Laurence creates content that makes AI and machine learning approachable – you might have seen him in Google’s popular online courses or read his books on programming. He is the author of “AI and Machine Learning for On-Device Development” and co-author of “TensorFlow for Dummies,” among other titles, which break down complex AI concepts for beginners. Laurence has been instrumental in building Google’s AI and TensorFlow evangelism from the ground up, engaging software engineers and students in adopting machine learning through tutorials, videos, and hands-on labs. With a background that spans software development, web technology, and even theology (he holds a Master’s in Theology, adding a philosophical perspective to his tech expertise), Laurence brings a unique, empathetic approach to tech advocacy.

15. Martin Ford

Martin Ford is a futurist and New York Times bestselling author who has become one of the leading voices on the consequences of artificial intelligence and robotics on the economy and society. He is most famous for his book “Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of Mass Unemployment”, which won the Financial Times/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award and sparked global conversations about how automation might affect the future of work. Martin has also authored “Architects of Intelligence” (a collection of interviews with top AI researchers) and “Rule of the Robots”, further solidifying his authority in the AI discourse. With a background in computer engineering and business, and years of running a Silicon Valley software firm, Martin Ford provides a balanced perspective that combines technical understanding with economic insight.

16. Nina Schick

Nina Schick is a trailblazing expert on generative AI, deepfakes, and the future of media. She made waves as the author of “DEEPFAKES: The Coming Infocalypse,” which was the first book to explore the implications of AI-generated content and synthetic media on politics and society. Nina has become a prominent advisor and speaker on how technology is reshaping information ecosystems – she has advised global leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden and former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen on cybersecurity and disinformation issues. As the founder of Tamang Ventures, Nina invests in and guides startups in the AI space, and she has been a key voice in educating the public about the benefits and risks of generative AI. She coined the term “Infocalypse” to describe the potential flood of AI-created misinformation. Nina is also well-known as the creator of ‘The Era of Generative AI’, a popular newsletter and community that helps people understand advancements like GPT-3 and DALL·E.

Nina’s Speaking Topics

• AI and Digital Trust
• How Will Generative AI Change Your Business?
• AI Geopolitics

17. Orlando Machado

Dr. Orlando Machado is a distinguished data scientist and AI innovator who has helped some of the world’s best-known companies become truly data-driven. With a PhD in Statistics, Orlando has a knack for turning raw data into strategic insights. He earned the title of “World AI Top 50 Innovator” and received a lifetime achievement award from DataIQ for his contributions to the industry. Orlando made history at LEGO, where he became the company’s first-ever Chief Data Officer. In that role, he introduced machine learning models that not only enhanced customer experiences (imagine AI helping to personalise a child’s play or online shopping journey) but also upheld strong data privacy standards to protect users – a balance that earned him great respect. Prior to LEGO, Orlando led data and analytics teams across various sectors: at the BBC and Guardian in media, at WPP in marketing, at Aviva in insurance, and at MoneySuperMarket in fintech, to name a few. This breadth of experience means he speaks the language of many industries when discussing AI solutions.

18. Rachel Botsman

Rachel Botsman is a world-renowned expert on trust in the modern world, who offers a fascinating lens on how technology (including AI) is transforming human relationships and societal norms. She is the author of two influential books: “What’s Mine is Yours” (which coined and explored the concept of collaborative consumption or the sharing economy) and “Who Can You Trust?” (which examines how technology is revolutionising trust between people, organisations, and institutions). Rachel is a lecturer at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, where she teaches students and executives about trust in the digital age. She’s also a regular presenter for TED Talks – her TED speech on trust has millions of views. Rachel Botsman is celebrated for introducing the idea that we have shifted from institutional trust (trusting banks, governments, traditional media) to distributed trust (trusting strangers on platforms like Airbnb, or trusting algorithms). In the era of AI, her insights become even more critical: how do we trust decisions made by AI, or trust that our data is being used responsibly?

19. Robert Hannigan

Robert Hannigan is a leading authority on cyber security, intelligence, and the intersection of technology with national security. He served as the Director of GCHQ (the UK Government Communications Headquarters) from 2014 to 2017, one of Britain’s most sensitive and pivotal roles. At GCHQ – the UK’s equivalent of the NSA – Robert oversaw critical cyber operations, the fight against terrorism, and the protection of government and industry from hacking and espionage. He was the creator of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which has been instrumental in improving cybersecurity awareness and resilience across British businesses and institutions. In the realm of AI, Robert has been vocal about both the opportunities and threats: how AI can aid cybersecurity by detecting anomalies and automating defenses, but also how it can be leveraged by adversaries to conduct more sophisticated cyber attacks or spread disinformation. After leaving public service, Robert Hannigan became the Chairman of BlueVoyant International, a cyber defense firm, and continues to advise companies on cyber risk management.

20. Sam Altman

Sam Altman is one of the most prominent entrepreneurs and innovators in the field of artificial intelligence. He is the CEO and co-founder of OpenAI, the research and deployment company responsible for breakthroughs like ChatGPT and GPT-4, which have brought AI into mainstream usage globally. Under Sam’s leadership, OpenAI’s mission has been to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity – reflecting his deep concern with AI’s long-term impact. Before joining OpenAI, Sam Altman was well-known in Silicon Valley as the president of Y Combinator, the startup accelerator that nurtured companies like Airbnb, Dropbox, and Stripe. This background gave him a keen eye for technological disruption and the development of early-stage ideas into world-changing products. Sam also has a track record as a bold thinker; he’s been involved in projects ranging from nuclear energy (Helion Energy) to life extension, showing his ambition to tackle big challenges.

21. Sana Khareghani

Dr. Sana Khareghani is a strategic leader in the AI policy and innovation space, known for her role in shaping the United Kingdom’s approach to artificial intelligence. She was the Head of the UK Government’s Office for Artificial Intelligence, a joint unit between the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). In this capacity, Sana played a pivotal part in developing the UK’s National AI Strategy and fostering collaboration between government, academia, and industry on AI initiatives. Her work ensured that the UK became a global player in AI while addressing important considerations such as ethics, skills development, and regional growth. Sana’s background is a blend of technology and business: she has worked in Silicon Valley and the UK tech sector, with experiences ranging from software engineering to management consulting at Accenture. She’s also an Advisor at the OECD’s AI Policy Observatory and a Professor of Practice in AI at King’s College London, reflecting her commitment to both policy and education.

22. Sarah Armstrong-Smith

Sarah Armstrong-Smith is a leading expert in cybersecurity, business resilience, and crisis management, with a career that spans over two decades in the technology sector. She is currently Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), where she helps Microsoft’s largest customers fortify their cybersecurity strategies and navigate the evolving threat landscape. Sarah’s extensive experience includes roles such as Head of Continuity & Resilience at Fujitsu and Group Head of Business Resilience & Crisis Management at London Stock Exchange Group. She has been on the front lines handling major incidents – from the Y2K Millennium Bug early in her career to more recent global cyber threats – which has given her a wealth of practical knowledge on how to maintain operations under pressure. Sarah is highly regarded in the industry, having been named one of the “Most Influential Women in UK Tech” and one of the top “Cyber Security Leaders in UK” by respected publications.

Sarah’s Testimonials

“Absolutely fabulous speaker – so interesting and a wealth of knowledge.” – Event Organiser, UK Cybersecurity Conference

23. Toju Duke

Toju Duke is a champion of ethical and inclusive artificial intelligence, with a mission to ensure that AI solutions work for everyone in society. She is the founder and CEO of Bedrock AI, an AI product and services company, and also the founder of Diverse AI, a community-driven initiative advocating for diversity in AI development. Before her entrepreneurial ventures, Toju made significant contributions at Google, where she was a program manager leading Google’s AI for Social Good efforts in Africa and also worked on responsible AI initiatives. Her work at Google included supporting organisations that use AI to address challenges like healthcare and environmental conservation, which gave her firsthand experience in how AI can be applied to improve lives. Toju Duke is recognised globally as a thought leader – she has been featured as one of the top women in AI and regularly speaks at international forums about the importance of mitigating bias in machine learning models.

24. Utpal Chakraborty

Dr. Utpal Chakraborty is a renowned AI researcher, author, and technology leader with a prolific career at the forefront of emerging tech. With over 20 years in the industry, Utpal has held key positions such as Head of Artificial Intelligence at Yes Bank (one of India’s largest banks) and is currently the Chief Technology Officer at IntellAI, where he spearheads projects in AI and quantum computing. He has also served as an AI architect at IBM and a principal architect at other global firms, giving him a rich background in implementing AI across different domains like finance, manufacturing, and IT services. Utpal is widely recognised for his thought leadership: he was honored as an “AI Global Ambassador 2022” and frequently ranks among the top AI influencers worldwide. He has authored eight books on technology, including titles like “Artificial Intelligence and the Fourth Industrial Revolution” and “Rise of Generative AI and ChatGPT”, which showcase his dedication to educating others about complex tech trends in straightforward language.

25. Yann LeCun

Yann LeCun is a legend in the field of artificial intelligence, often hailed as one of the “godfathers of deep learning.” A pioneer in machine learning research, Yann’s work has fundamentally shaped the AI technologies we use today. He is the Chief AI Scientist at Meta (Facebook) and also a professor at New York University (on leave), where he has mentored and inspired a generation of AI researchers. Yann received the 2018 Turing Award (often called the “Nobel Prize of Computing”), alongside Geoff Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, for his contributions to deep neural networks. Back in the late 1980s and 1990s, Yann LeCun developed the convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture and demonstrated its power by creating a system for handwritten digit recognition – this became the foundation for modern computer vision, enabling things like facial recognition and self-driving car vision systems. At Meta, Yann continues to push the boundaries, researching energy-based models and self-supervised learning, which are approaches to make AI learn more like humans do (with less need for vast labeled datasets).

Book an Artificial Intelligence Speaker For Your Virtual Event Today!

Hiring an AI speaker can unlock your event’s potential – from educating your audience on game-changing innovations to inspiring them with success stories of tech-driven transformation. The benefits of understanding AI’s impact are clear: improved competitiveness, innovation, and confidence in navigating the future.

Our Official Top 25 AI Speakers represent the pinnacle of expertise and motivational speaking in this field, but they are just a selection of the talent available. To explore more artificial intelligence speakers, visit our full listings today. For bespoke recommendations and to secure the perfect speaker for your virtual event, head over to our visit our Contact page or call 0203 9317 391.