Ellen Gunning

Ellen Gunning is a globally recognised futurist, AI strategist and communications expert who has become one of Europe’s leading voices on emerging technology, digital transformation and strategic communications. Known professionally as the Data Prophet, Ellen is widely sought after for her ability to explain how artificial intelligence is transforming society, business and the global economy. Her engaging keynote presentations explore the impact of AI across industries including education, communications, politics, healthcare and business, helping organisations understand both the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies. Combining technical knowledge with decades of communications expertise, she equips audiences with practical strategies for navigating an increasingly AI driven world.

Ellen’s career began in communications, journalism and broadcasting, establishing a strong foundation in media, public relations and strategic messaging. She founded the Irish Academy of Public Relations, creating one of Europe’s leading providers of communications education, while also serving as Chief Executive Officer of Mettacomms. Alongside her executive leadership, she spent 15 years presenting the radio programme Mediascope on Dublin City FM, interviewing experts and analysing developments across the communications landscape. As artificial intelligence began reshaping every industry, Ellen expanded her expertise by studying AI, Robotics and Large Language Models at MIT, combining her communications background with advanced technical understanding to become a respected authority on AI strategy and digital transformation.

Throughout her career, Ellen has received widespread recognition for her leadership and contribution to communications and technology. She serves as Vice President of the European Association for Distance Learning and is set to become its President in 2027, having previously held the position of National President of the International Public Relations Association. Her achievements have been recognised with Entrepreneur of the Year, Diversity in Tech from JP Morgan, the European Parliament Broadcast Journalist of the Year Award, the Dublin Chamber CSR Award and a Lifetime Contribution to the PR Industry Award. She has addressed audiences around the world, speaking at major international conferences from Brussels to Sydney on the future of communications, education, digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

Ellen is hired as an AI speaker because she bridges the gap between technological innovation and real world business application. Rather than focusing solely on the technology itself, she demonstrates how AI is reshaping leadership, communications, education, remote working and organisational strategy. Her presentations combine forward looking insights with practical guidance, helping leaders prepare for rapid technological change while communicating effectively in an evolving digital landscape. Drawing on her extensive international speaking experience, executive leadership and specialist AI education, Ellen delivers thought provoking, accessible keynotes that leave audiences better equipped to embrace artificial intelligence with confidence, clarity and strategic purpose.