The World’s Top 10 Cybersecurity Speakers in 2026 Ranked by Official Data

In today’s hyper-connected world, robust cybersecurity is essential for individuals and businesses alike. Nearly 80% of global consumers received a scam attempt in the last year, highlighting how common digital threats have become in our daily lives. 95% of cyber attacks are caused by human error, meaning our online habits and awareness directly impact security. The cost of cybercrime is staggering – global losses reached $9.5 trillion in a single year – but the positive news is that knowledgeable users can significantly reduce these risks. By fostering good cyber habits (for example, using strong passwords and being vigilant against phishing), individuals protect their privacy and companies safeguard their assets. When audiences and employees are cyber-aware, businesses benefit from fewer breaches, greater customer trust, and a more resilient digital culture. In short, cybersecurity knowledge empowers people and organisations, preventing harm and enabling confident participation in the digital economy.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Cybersecurity Speaker?

Hiring a cybersecurity speaker for your event is a powerful way to boost your team’s cyber awareness and proactive security habits. Expert speakers translate complex cyber threats into relatable advice, motivating audiences to adopt safer online practices. With human error behind the majority of breaches, the insights from a speaker can directly reduce your organisation’s risk – in fact, effective security training cuts the likelihood of a breach by 65%. A top cybersecurity speaker will share real-world examples of attacks and prevention, inspiring employees to be vigilant and cyber-smart. The result is a positive ripple effect: fewer costly incidents, a stronger security culture, and greater confidence among customers and stakeholders. Engaging a cybersecurity speaker is an informative, professional, and motivational step toward protecting your business in the digital age.

Who Are the Best Cybersecurity Speakers in 2026 Trending in the UK?

This official selection of the best cybersecurity speakers based in the UK is based on vetted data collected from 248 AI-themed events and comprehensive audience polls. Each speaker in this list has been rated highly for their expertise, insight, and ability to engage audiences. Below is our top ten cybersecurity speakers ranking for 2026, along with what they’re best known for:

• Sarah Armstrong-Smith – Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor for EMEA
• Mary Aiken – World’s leading forensic cyberpsychologist (author of The Cyber Effect)
• Robert Hannigan – Former Director of GCHQ (UK intelligence & cyber agency)
• Joanna Shields – Former UK Minister for Internet Safety & Security; tech industry pioneer
• Graeme Park – CISO of Matillion and former Head of Deployable IT at NATO
• Jamie Woodruff – Europe’s #1 ethical hacker and cybersecurity specialist
• Ben Owen – Ex-British intelligence officer and star of Channel 4’s Hunted
• Greg van der Gaast – Former notorious hacker turned leading cybersecurity advisor
• Sir John Sawers – Former Chief of MI6 (UK Secret Intelligence Service)
• Major General Jonathan Shaw – Former Head of UK Defence Cyber Security Programme

1. Sarah Armstrong-Smith

Official Client Rating – 5.0

Sarah Armstrong-Smith is a renowned cybersecurity leader, celebrated for her role as Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor for Europe, Middle East and Africa. With nearly three decades of frontline experience in cyber resilience and crisis management, Sarah has led initiatives for major organisations – including heading Business Resilience at the London Stock Exchange – and advised on countless cyber incidents. She has twice been named among the Most Influential Women in UK Tech, reflecting her standing as a role model in the industry. As a speaker, Sarah draws on her extensive career (from tackling the Millennium Bug in 1999 to guiding enterprises today) to educate audiences on cybersecurity best practices. Her approachable style and wealth of real-world examples inspire businesses to strengthen their defenses and embrace a culture of security. Sarah’s presentations highlight the importance of preparation, resilience and inclusive leadership in technology, leaving listeners informed and motivated to proactively address cyber risks.

Sarah’s Testimonials:

“Sarah was an absolutely fabulous speaker – so interesting and a wealth of knowledge… I would really recommend her for future speaking engagements.” – Samantha, Leicester Tigers

Sarah’s Speaking Topics:

• Cyber Security
• Resilience
• Crisis Management
• Women in Business
• Inclusion

2. Mary Aiken

Official Client Rating – 5.0

Dr. Mary Aiken is the world’s foremost expert in cyberpsychology – the study of how technology affects human behavior – and a passionate cybersecurity advocate. As a Professor of Forensic Cyberpsychology, Mary has pioneered research into online safety and cybercrime, advising organisations like INTERPOL and the White House on the human factors of cybersecurity. She is the bestselling author of The Cyber Effect, a groundbreaking book exploring how the internet impacts our minds and actions. Mary’s illustrious career includes induction into the Infosecurity Europe Hall of Fame and recognition as one of the top 100 women in STEM. On stage, Mary Aiken excels at connecting technical security issues with everyday habits and psychology. She reveals how understanding user behavior – from the allure of social media to the tactics of cyber criminals – is key to protecting data and people. Audiences praise her engaging storytelling and authoritative insights, which demystify cyber threats like phishing and grooming, and emphasise the critical role of humans in cybersecurity. Mary’s unique perspective leaves listeners enlightened about digital behaviour and empowered to create safer online environments in both business and life.

Mary’s Testimonials:

“It undoubtedly raised the profile of security in the business and reinforced the role of humans in everything… My head is still buzzing and it’s going to take me a while to digest it all.” – Daren, CTO at Resonate

Mary’s Speaking Topics:

• Impact of Technology on Human Behaviour
• Cyber Crime and Online Safety
• Building a Cyber Aware Culture

3. Robert Hannigan

Official Client Rating – 4.75

Robert Hannigan is a distinguished cybersecurity specialist best known for serving as Director of GCHQ, the UK’s largest intelligence and cyber agency, from 2014 to 2017. As the head of GCHQ (the British equivalent of the NSA), Robert was at the forefront of national cyber defence – in fact, he established the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre in 2016 to better protect businesses and citizens. He also previously served as Prime Minister’s Security Adviser, contributing to government strategy on counter-terrorism and cyber threats. Now Executive Chairman at an international cyber firm, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge from the highest levels of security. On stage, Robert Hannigan provides unparalleled insight into cyber warfare, espionage and emerging threats, drawn from decades of public service. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of handling major cyber incidents and implementing innovative defences for a nation. Despite the gravity of his experience, Robert’s speaking style is accessible and enlightening – he expertly translates geopolitical risks and technical concepts into lessons for businesses in any sector. Audiences come away inspired by his visionary approach to cybersecurity and confident in how to apply these strategies to safeguard their own organisations in an increasingly uncertain digital world.

Robert’s Speaking Topics:

• National Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy
• Cyber Warfare and Geopolitics
• Innovation in Security Technology
• Intelligence, Security and Risk Management

4. Joanna Shields

Official Client Rating – 4.6

Baroness Joanna Shields is a digital industry pioneer and public servant who has made a remarkable impact on technology and online safety. She was the UK’s first-ever Minister for Internet Safety & Security, leading national efforts to protect children and citizens online. Joanna’s career spans senior roles at companies like Facebook, Google and AOL, and she later served as CEO of BenevolentAI, driving innovation at the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare. Now a member of the House of Lords, she champions ethical tech and founded the WeProtect Alliance to combat online child exploitation. As a keynote speaker, Joanna Shields offers a powerful blend of corporate tech expertise and public policy insight. She shares lessons from transforming startups into global successes (such as leading Bebo and others to major acquisitions) and from crafting policies that make the digital world safer for everyone. Her speaking style is both authoritative and inspiring – she can speak to boardrooms about AI-driven business growth, while also addressing educators on digital responsibility. Audiences value Joanna’s genuine passion for leveraging technology as a force for good. Whether discussing data ethics, AI for social impact, or leadership in the tech sector, Joanna Shields motivates listeners to innovate responsibly and build a safer, more inclusive digital future.

Joanna’s Speaking Topics:

• Online Safety and Digital Governance
• AI Innovation in Business and Society
• Leadership in Tech & Entrepreneurship
• Public Policy in the Digital Age

5. Graeme Park

Official Client Rating – 4.6

Graeme Park is a highly accomplished cybersecurity executive who combines military-grade expertise with corporate leadership. He is currently the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of Matillion, a UK tech company, and previously served as Head of Deployable IT at NATO, where he managed critical cyber operations in challenging environments. Graeme’s background also includes over a decade at the UK Ministry of Defence in senior IT security roles, and he holds advanced degrees in International Security and Cyber Defence. As a speaker, Graeme Park is known for his insightful analysis of emerging threats and the practical steps organizations can take to counter them. He has a deep understanding of topics like artificial intelligence in security and nation-state cyber attacks, having worked on the front lines of both fields. Graeme’s talks blend strategic vision with actionable advice – from fostering a “security-first” culture in high-growth companies, to preparing for the kind of sophisticated attacks seen on the global stage. He also shares his passion for education (evidenced by founding a cybersecurity initiative for schools) to inspire the next generation of cyber talent. Calm, articulate and motivational, Graeme Park delivers a wealth of knowledge on how to lead in cybersecurity, adapt to fast-evolving risks, and keep organisations safe in the modern digital battlefield.

Graeme’s Speaking Topics:

• Cyber Security for High-Growth Companies
• Artificial Intelligence & Cyber Defence
• Leadership & Security Culture
• Nation-State Threats
• Resilience in the Face of Cyber Attacks

6. Jamie Woodruff

Official Client Rating – 4.4

Jamie Woodruff is Europe’s number one ethical hacker, a cybersecurity expert famed for his daring demonstrations and youthful energy. He first shot to fame by successfully hacking Facebook as a student, and has since exposed vulnerabilities in high-profile platforms like Twitter, YouTube, Apple and even Kim Kardashian’s website – all in the name of improving security. As a fully qualified penetration testing engineer, Jamie has helped corporations and banks shore up their defenses by showing how hackers operate. On stage, Jamie Woodruff is an absolute showstopper. He often “scares the pants off” audiences (as one client humorously noted) with live hacking examples, only to teach them how to stay safe. His keynote speeches are engaging, edgy and eye-opening – Jamie uses real-world hacking stories and interactive demonstrations to reveal the human and technical weaknesses that cybercriminals exploit. Despite the sometimes sobering content, he balances it with humour and clear guidance, leaving attendees both entertained and educated. From social engineering tricks to the latest in cyberattack trends, Jamie translates hacker tactics into practical advice that anyone can apply. He is particularly effective at reaching non-technical audiences, proving that cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue but everyone’s responsibility. For an unforgettable and informative experience, Jamie Woodruff delivers in spades.

Jamie’s Testimonials:

“Jamie scared the pants off the audience, and they all left the session turning off their mobile phones. But to date, he is rated the highest out of our industry speakers.” – Tina, Sapphire Events

Jamie’s Speaking Topics:

• Ethical Hacking & Live Cyber Attack Demos
• Social Engineering – The Human Hack
• Cybersecurity for Businesses (Awareness & Training)
• Protecting Personal Data in a Digital World

7. Ben Owen

Official Client Rating – 4.3

Ben Owen is a former British intelligence operative turned cybersecurity media star, known for his captivating role on Channel 4’s hit TV series Hunted. As the Head of Intelligence on Hunted (and its celebrity spin-off), Ben used his surveillance and cyber-tracking skills to pursue contestants “on the run,” giving the public a thrilling look at real manhunt techniques. Off-screen, Ben served in the British military (including as a sniper) and worked in covert intelligence, honing expertise in open-source intelligence (OSINT), counter-terrorism and cyber crime. Today, he co-leads an OSINT consultancy and is a sought-after speaker who brings security lessons to life. Ben Owen’s talks are fast-paced, fascinating and packed with actionable advice. He shares unbelievable stories of tracking people across digital footprints and demonstrates how easy it is to gather information – even performing live hacking sessions to show the “digital breadcrumbs” we leave behind. Audiences are often astonished and motivated to change their online habits after seeing Ben in action. Despite the serious subject matter, Ben’s warm personality and sense of humour shine through (indeed, clients often remark that “he is absolutely hilarious”). Whether discussing how to disappear in a surveillance society or how businesses can protect remote workers from cyber threats, Ben provides a masterclass in security awareness. He equips every listener with the mindset of a “hunter” – to think like an attacker in order to stay one step ahead of cyber criminals.

Ben’s Testimonials:

“Ben was a huge hit… He is absolutely hilarious, and even managed to have a few gins with us after his talk! Our audience was clearly engaged – they had tons of questions. We all loved him.” – 4Secure

Ben’s Speaking Topics:

• “Hunted”: Lessons in Evading and Tracking in a Digital World
• How Safe Are You Online? (Live hacking demonstration)
• Digital Data in the Modern World (Remote Work Security)
• Leadership Under Pressure: Military Insights for Business
• Cyber Spies vs. Cyber Criminals – Tools and Tactics

8. Greg van der Gaast

Official Client Rating – 4.25

Greg van der Gaast is a cybersecurity thought leader whose life story reads like a Hollywood movie. As a teenager, Greg gained notoriety as one of the world’s most infamous hackers, even appearing on an FBI watchlist before turning his talents to good. He later worked as a U.S. government operative and has since built a 25+ year career securing organisations – serving as a Chief Information Security Officer and advising Fortune 500 companies on strategy. He’s also an author and a champion of innovative, holistic security approaches. As a speaker, Greg van der Gaast is refreshingly candid and forward-thinking. He is not afraid to challenge conventional cybersecurity wisdom, urging businesses to move beyond tick-box compliance and truly integrate security into their culture. Greg often shares eye-opening anecdotes from his hacking days (with a dash of witty humor) to illustrate how attackers target weaknesses that many overlook. He then offers a roadmap for change – emphasising the human element of security, the importance of leadership support, and smarter investment in defence. Greg’s out-of-the-box approach and genuine passion for protecting people make his presentations both informative and inspiring. Audiences come away with a deeper understanding of how hackers think and a fresh perspective on building resilient systems. Greg van der Gaast proves that even the most notorious hacker can become one of the greatest allies in the fight against cyber threats.

Greg’s Speaking Topics:

• From Hacker to CISO: A Journey in Cybersecurity
• Building Holistic Security (Beyond Compliance)
• The Psychology of Hackers & Insider Threats
• Leadership and Change Management in Cybersecurity

9. Sir John Sawers

Official Client Rating – 4.25

Sir John Sawers is a distinguished former diplomat and intelligence chief who offers a strategic lens on cybersecurity and global risk. As the Chief of the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) from 2009 to 2014, Sir John was responsible for some of the nation’s most sensitive security operations and insights. He also served as Britain’s Ambassador to the United Nations and has over three decades of experience in international affairs. Now the chairman of an international consultancy, Sir John remains an influential voice on security, geopolitics, and technology’s role in both. In speaking engagements, Sir John Sawers brings gravitas and deep wisdom, drawing on his experience leading MI6 through complex cyber-espionage challenges. He elucidates how nation-states and rogue actors operate in the shadows of cyberspace, and the implications for businesses and governments worldwide. Despite his formidable resume, Sir John’s style is engaging and clear – he excels at distilling high-level concepts like cyber deterrence or digital sovereignty into relatable ideas. Audiences appreciate his broad perspective that connects cybersecurity with economic and political trends. Whether discussing the cyber threats to critical infrastructure or the importance of trust and ethics in AI, Sir John provides a thought-provoking, big-picture outlook. His talks often inspire leaders to adopt a more proactive and collaborative approach to security, reminding us that in a connected world, cybersecurity is truly everyone’s business.

Sir John’s Speaking Topics:

• Cybersecurity in Geopolitics and National Security
• Intelligence, Espionage and Cyber Defense
• Global Risk Leadership and Crisis Management
• The Intersection of Technology and International Affairs

10. Major General Jonathan Shaw

Official Client Rating – 4.0

Major General Jonathan Shaw is an esteemed former military leader who spearheaded the United Kingdom’s early cyber defence efforts. As the first head of the MOD’s Defence Cyber Security Programme, Jonathan was a pioneer in integrating cybersecurity into national defence strategy. He previously had a storied Army career, including commanding the UK Special Forces and British forces in Iraq, before turning his focus to cyber operations and policy. This unique background gives him unparalleled authority on both conventional and cyber warfare. On stage, Major General Shaw is a commanding and insightful presence. He shares compelling narratives from battlefields both physical and virtual – from leading troops in combat zones to fortifying the armed forces against digital attacks. Jonathan emphasises that modern conflicts are not only fought with tanks and planes, but also with networks and code. Audiences benefit from his clear explanations of complex issues like state-sponsored hacking and critical infrastructure protection, grounded in real-world experience. He also draws leadership lessons from the military that apply to corporate cybersecurity: the value of preparation, teamwork, and decisiveness under pressure. Major General Shaw’s talks leave listeners with a heightened awareness of the evolving threat landscape and practical guidance on building a robust defence. He inspires confidence that with the right strategy and mindset, any organisation can prevail against cyber adversaries.

Jonathan’s Speaking Topics:

• Pioneering Cyber Defence in the Military
• Cyber Warfare and National Resilience
• Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield to Cybersecurity
• Protecting Critical Infrastructure in the Digital Age

Book a Cybersecurity Speaker Today

In conclusion, hiring a cybersecurity speaker can have a transformative impact on your organisation – from educating your workforce about online threats to inspiring more secure habits that safeguard your business. The world-class experts highlighted above each bring a unique perspective on cybersecurity, whether it’s ethical hacking demonstrations, leadership insights, or the latest strategies against cybercrime. By engaging a top cybersecurity speaker, you invest in a more informed, resilient and cyber-aware team, which in turn protects your company’s reputation and assets.

To explore more of the world’s top cybersecurity speakers and find the perfect fit for your event, visit our Contact Us page or call us on 0203 410 9897. We’re ready to match you with a speaker who aligns with your AI strategy. Let us help you plan an event that inspires change and builds future-ready teams.