In this section our agents describe their own impressions from working with individual speakers, presenters and performers. View by agent or category, and look out for recommendations on speaker or artist records.
Comedy Hip Hop Improv
I put Abandoman in front of one usually reserved technology crowd, and by the end of the evening the CEO was dancing on the table screaming for an encore. The foremost (and only) Irish ‘hip-hop improv’ act are a must for any audience with even the tiniest capacity for fun. Book them now! by Lara BuxtonChannel 4 Racing, BT Sport
Wearing her conference presenter hat Clare brings a lightness of touch that gets the best out of anyone, from guest stars to business types. She makes it so easy for them to convey their own struggles and achievements – and she’s a joy to have on your team. by Anke SchusterBeatboxer & Musical Technologist
Beardyman isn’t just possessed of a rare skill, he’s a truly versatile performer. He can silence a room in awe, have them tap their feet and stand to applaud all within five minutes. I've watched him evolve from gifted beatboxer into a headline star – embracing comedy and unbelievable vocal gymnastics. by Bella MilnerFormer Poker Pro
In his conference speech Caspar teaches you about probability and risk. After dinner he gives you a taste of the nerve tingling thrills of poker – complete with steely expressions, fingers tapping on chips and eyes darting around to detect a hint of weakness in others. It’s fabulous to see him generate so much excitement without anyone risking a bean of their own money! by Tom MclaughlinFormer Home Secretary
Whatever your own political persuasion, when you listen to David you realise his conviction is utterly genuine. Add the fact that he's been blind since birth, and his achievements begin to hit home. But what might really surprise you is the warmth, the wealth of anecdotes and a delightful sense of humour. by Mitchell SowdenAuthor and Trust Expert
Not only have Rachel’s book and ideas helped me make lifestyle choices, she’s also got some absolutely essential advice for twenty-first century businesses. Her speeches are peppered with nuggets that you’ll find yourself repeating to friends and colleagues for days to come. 200,000 views within two weeks of her latest TED Global talk going online say it all. by Barbara de LacyWriter, Broadcaster, Psychological Illusionist
When you’re lucky enough to stumble on a free date between filming and touring, Derren’s an absolute pleasure to work with. Production is blissfully simple in any space, and he really understands corporate audiences. You end up with a fast-paced, hugely entertaining show which will baffle everyone! by Barbara de LacyWriter, Strategist, Campaigner, The Rest is Politics
I love how Alastair balances humour, gossip and serious messages. The story about the Deputy PM punching an egg-throwing voter is typical: Alastair gets a call from Prezza (in pantomime Yorkshire): "Hello… Errr… I've just thumped someone." After telling us what happened, he gives the audience a genuine insight into how to manage a potential PR disaster. It's a fantastic listen. by Allan GrantComedian, Presenter
Offstage Alan is like his onscreen persona: down to earth, self-deprecating and wickedly funny. But he really delivers onstage. His opening routine intersperses topical gags with industry-specific material, and his energy is unrelenting. I can't recommend him highly enough. by Allan GrantFormer MD, Google UK and Ireland
To say Dan has his finger on the pulse of technology is an understatement. His insights into what we should expect in our homes and businesses in the future are truly thought provoking – as is his advice on how to harness current technology to make a workplace thrive. You’re watching an expert at the top of his game, with a wonderfully accessible and humorous presentation style. by Dennis PerryPop Star Turned Curate
Richard's speech is one of the warmest I’ve heard. After a glance back to his days as a pop star, he describes the shock of wearing cassocks and sharing a dormitory at the age of 40. If you’re a fan of Rev. (for which he is the inspiration), Richard will leave you in fits of giggles. by Carrie WoodComedian & Ventriloquist
You’re in for a treat with Nina, particularly if it’s one of your colleagues that gets pulled up onstage. With a wealth of characters at her fingertips it’s always going to be a fun show. I’m constantly amazed at her skill as well as her quick wit – especially when Monkey sings Time to Say Goodbye! by Julie GedeonComedian, Actor & Writer
Hal's comedy is perfect for corporate audiences. He's instantly endearing - with McIntyre-style energy, stage presence (and campness) along with wonderfully self deprecating put-downs. I’m still laughing at the gag about ignoring his child's schooling because she didn't ask him about his own day. by Allan GrantSerial Entrepreneur
It begins as a battery of anecdotes, delivered with a mischievous sense of humour. Then, amid jaw dropping and laughter, a rallying cry emerges: leap at every opportunity, don’t fear the Goliaths who obstruct your path, and always come back fighting. As well as all that, his almost spiritual distillation of the concept of ‘brand’ will have you throwing your old definition into the dustbin. by Brogan WestDigital Transformation & Social Media Strategist
Andrew cuts through the gimmickry and helps you create a proper social media strategy. As well as waxing lyrical on how to create great content, he encourages you to pin down elusive ROI. But for me Andrew’s real magic is the way he equips you with the tools and confidence to keep making the right decisions - even when the game changes all over again. by Jethro FoxFounder Resi.co.uk, former CEO helping.com
We’ve all had that feeling that we could be entrepreneurs, if we just had the time. Or the funds. Or the skills. Alex tells you that all you need is to be brave. With zero experience of coding, she and a friend built an app in her bedroom and turned it into a multi-million pound business. Alex’s talk is eye-opening, frank and at times very funny. It’s also truly inspiring, in an ‘anyone can do it’ way that’s more believable than any other entrepreneur I’ve heard. by Georgia SharpPhotojournalist, Storyteller, Campaigner
Giles is one of the greatest storytellers I’ve ever heard. Taking his time with details and with a surprising amount of humour, he shares his experience of dealing with the consequences of nearly being killed by an IED while putting all the focus on the refugees from war that he’s met along the way. He’s so compelling you could hear a pin drop; not just that, he leaves you inspired to do more and make a real difference. by Jessica MearsProfessor of Paediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery
An extraordinary leader in an extraordinary environment, it's hard not to feel humble listening to Martin! In a wonderfully focused way he makes you want to be receptive to new ideas wherever they come from. While his goal might be trying to fine tune the handover of a baby from operating table to intensive care unit, it’s clear that the principles are the same whatever the process and wherever people have to work together. by Jessica MearsThe Accidental Adventurer
It’s hard to imagine that Ben fell into being an adventurer by accident. As he talks about his projects, what becomes clear is his passion and determination – as well as his boundless natural charm. He leaves you thinking that one day you might be able to row across the Atlantic yourself! by Andrew StoneyPolitical Comedian & Presenter
Recreating the House of Commons onstage might not sound like everybody’s cup of tea, but Matt pulls it off. Part football obsessive, part PMQs geek, he’s just as much at home dishing out topical stand-up as interviewing George Galloway – and his Ed Miliband impression is uncanny. by Barbara de LacyProfessor, IMD
While many economic speakers start by bracing you for whatever gloomy predictions they’re about to deliver, Stephane engages you with a real glint in his eye. Describing the post-recession world as “unusually desynchronised” he guides delegates through each region’s competitiveness, helping to join the dots in a constantly changing business landscape. by Ben ArnoldSoprano & West End Star
Lesley is charming and easy to work with – and she delivers a blistering thirty minutes of entertainment. After her performance she mingles with guests and signs autographs – last time in Jersey we had to drag her away! by Carrie WoodBarbican's Director of Arts and Learning
Will challenges any perceptions of the artistic world as a breeding ground for tormented, penniless outcasts. Instead he describes the most celebrated exponents as entrepreneurs with a sharp understanding of the zeitgeist. Along with some genuinely hilarious stories, Will’s message to business is crystal clear: to survive and thrive, we must all begin to think like artists. by Tom DisleyDeputy Editor, The Economist
The breadth of Robert's insight is so impressive. When I last saw him he pulled together anecdotes and analysis on the US, China and Russia – then related their economic policies to the situation in the UK. It made for some striking (and entertaining) contrasts. He takes big and contentious issues and explores their impact in a way that’s immediately relevant and engaging. by Tom DisleyFinancial Times’ Undercover Economist & More or Less Presenter
Exclusive Speaker The Undercover Economist was the first book I read when I joined JLA – since then I’ve never failed to be impressed by Tim. He makes you look at everything differently. Hearing his new speech on Big Data was a revelation: you realise the challenge is not to get the biggest data set, but the right data! He has a knack for making the seemingly impenetrable blissfully clear. by Jethro FoxDouble Olympic Gold Medallist
Though she's only five foot two Kelly's infectious laugh, her bright personality (and her love of the group selfie) could fill a room twice over. The lightness of her storytelling makes you have to remind yourself that she suffered set back after set back before winning her two gold medals. It's her strength in the face of failure that makes Kelly so empowering. You won't just feel a sense of awe, you'll want her to be your best friend too. by Paul WarranCustomer Loyalty & Brand Expert
Alex speaks with real authority on the successes (and setbacks) of online business, and how peer-to-peer collaboration is changing the consumer experience. His own enthusiasm onstage perfectly echoes his argument that an ability to build relationships with customers online and make them care is what makes you stand out in the increasingly competitive digital space. by Jethro FoxChampion Hurdler and Presenter
Colin’s modesty comes across the moment you meet him. In fact, his story about learning not to be cocky is one of many lessons to take away. Whether he’s doing a lap round the room with an Olympic flame, exciting you about the possibilities open to you or just making you laugh, he gets everyone involved. And he doesn’t mind being asked about Strictly! by Jess BoneDirector, Institute for Fiscal Studies
Paul is clearly an accomplished economist, but it’s his delivery that sets him apart. Immediately likeable on stage, throwing in a bit of humour, Paul reels off statistics that highlight areas relevant to whichever industry he’s talking to and explains what they really tell us. Whether the brief is a general overview, an assessment of government policy or something more specific, Paul makes economics accessible to everyone – and even entertaining! by Jessica PriorFormer Head of Disruption & Innovation, PwC
Exclusive Speaker Leo convinces you straight away of the importance of ‘future-proofing.’ It’s no mean feat to marry business priorities with the demands of sustainability. He does it with boundless Johnson charm, positivity and real insight backed up by fascinating case studies. I’ve never seen a more entertaining and thought provoking way to set out the challenges and eye up the possible solutions. by Christopher MorrellBusiness Leader
It’s difficult to avoid being spellbound when you listen to Digby. Trying to work out why, I came up with a list of what seem like oxymorons: a tone of friendly arrogance, a Brummie lilt which adds authority, hard nosed politics borne of true compassion, and a common sense that’s somehow revelatory. Perhaps it is these apparent contradictions that make him so compelling and give him an ability to change even the most steadfast of minds. by Harvey CoulsonMusician & Presenter
Myleene is a woman of many talents, and she’s wonderfully accommodating. If it’s appropriate for the event, she’s happy to combine her presenting and musical skills. More than that, she creates genuine warmth the moment she steps onstage. by Carrie WoodBBC Radio 4 & 6Music
As well as having a finger on the pulse of current trends, what defines Lauren as an awards host is her warmth. She charms organisers, sponsors and most importantly the audience - and makes every winner feel that it’s their moment.And her Sunderland accent can’t fail to endear her to everyone! by Brogan WestFounder & CEO, Mr & Mrs Smith
You can tell that Tamara has poured her personality wholeheartedly into the business – that’s what makes her success story so enthralling. The main thing I take away is her ability to capture the value of personal touches in customer service, like sending a bottle of Italian olive oil to help you reminisce about your break in Tuscany. After listening to Tamara speak, I dare you not to go onto her website and book a holiday! by Carrie WoodActress and Campaigner
Joanna's anecdotes marry the perfect mix of humour, experience and inspiration from her varied and fascinating career. Her insights are wonderfully perceptive yet viscerally witty. Her campaigns for the environment amongst others keep Joanna undeniably topical and totally unique. Joanna's 'Absolutely Fabulous' ability to light up a stage and hold any audience with her story is extraordinary to watch. by Bella MilnerTech Entrepreneur & Policy Advisor
In uncertain times Pippa provides real nuggets of wisdom about the global economy. It's fascinating to listen to someone who talks with such fluency about the factors that are having an impact on just about everything we buy and sell. You walk away feeling much better informed and a little bit smug about the inside knowledge you've gleaned. by Brogan WestEpisodes, The Split
The best awards host I've seen all year. If ‘briefability’ were a real word then Stephen has it in spades. The fact that the first winner of the evening ran up to the stage and greeted him with a double high five showed how brilliantly Stephen had immersed himself in the event. by Jethro FoxFormer Head of MI5 & Former Chair of the Wellcome Trust
Exclusive Speaker Leadership isn't just something Eliza talks about; it's there in everything she does. She handles questions brilliantly, her tone is steady and considered, and she holds the room in a way that only someone who’s used to being listened to can. In fact the former MI5 boss is disarmingly approachable, witty and warm (and not at all scary). by Brogan WestPresenter and Podcaster
Exclusive Speaker Steph’s a perfect combination of ‘plugged in’ and ‘credible’ – while remaining utterly down to earth. I’ve seen her demystify financial markets for grey-suited conference delegates and whoop up a roomful of excited awards contenders. It’s a fabulous sight to witness. I’m certain Ms McGovern’s profile is on a swift upward trajectory… by Julie GedeonFormer Army Officer
The thing that struck me most when I last saw Nicky speak was how many managers in the audience were avidly taking notes. She offers such tangible advice that it’s hard not to write it down straight away. Add some fascinating anecdotes about her experiences in the army, and she more than proves her point about the value of care and consistency in whichever industry you work. You come away from her speech with a couple of tips to try immediately! by Phoebe BrooksMedia Owner & Broadcaster
Andrew's knowledge of business and politics is encyclopaedic. He not only ‘gets’ speaking briefs, he’s also extremely useful to have onside. And he runs a very tight ship as a moderator, lightening the mood whenever he finds the opportunity. The result is that Andrew’s sessions become the creative spaces they’re meant to be – a million miles from Death by PowerPoint. by Tom DisleyActor
Jimmy is one of the most easy-going hosts. Nothing is too much trouble. He spends time learning about the event, then works with his scriptwriter to put together a funny and relevant intro. He’s professional and utterly charming. by Andrew StoneyComedian & Presenter
We’re often asked for a “safe, but edgy” name – someone sidesplittingly funny who will understand the audience, respect the event and follow the brief. Dara invariably shoots to the top of that list because he nails it time and again. He loves delving into other walks of life and coming up with killer industry gags. by Tom MclaughlinITV Political Editor, The Rest is Money
Exclusive Speaker After switching from a business to a political brief just as the two have become closely intertwined, Robert is very well placed to consider what might happen next. He has inside knowledge of the pressure points, personalities and potential consequences in both camps – but he’s quick to admit the danger of making predictions. He guides you through the soap opera with gusto and a surprising amount of humour. by Dennis PerryTimes Radio
Exclusive Speaker I’m always struck by the clarity with which John speaks about the complex issues facing political leaders, and the nation as a whole. He offers serious analysis, up to the minute information and behind the scenes insights into the goings-on at Westminster. But he also has a vast arsenal of anecdotes having spent many hundreds of hours grilling our lords and masters – and standing in front of 10 Downing Street in his favourite raincoat. by Mitchell SowdenWriter, Presenter & Food Critic
Jay is everything you need in an after dinner speaker - perhaps it's years of entertaining dining companions. He’s eloquent, easy going and comes with a store of anecdotes about life as a restaurant critic (aka "going out to eat and writing smart-arsed things about it"). by Jessica PriorFormer Editor, WIRED UK
If you want a speaker to provide a glimpse of what the future holds for your sector and your customers, David is for you. He sees himself as a storyteller, describing ways in which the world is rapidly changing and how technology is creating new opportunities for all businesses. But it comes with a warning: there are serious dangers if you ignore what’s happening around you. by Andrew Stoney