Richard Watson

Richard Watson is one of the world’s leading futurists, renowned for helping organisations understand the long-term impact of artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and global trends. An acclaimed author, business thinker and educator, he has advised organisations including the UK Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Defence and leading multinational brands such as Coca-Cola and Samsung. As a respected lecturer at London Business School and Imperial College London, Richard combines academic rigour with real-world strategic insight, making him one of the most sought-after AI speakers for businesses preparing for the future.

Richard’s career began with a strong focus on strategic foresight, scenario planning and innovation. In 1992, he co-founded GDR Creative Intelligence before establishing nowandnext.com, a platform dedicated to analysing emerging trends and their implications for business and society. Introduced to scenario planning by Napier Collyns, one of the founders of Global Business Network, Richard developed expertise in helping organisations anticipate disruption and prepare for long-term change. Alongside consulting for organisations including the RAND Corporation, the Strategic Trends Unit at the Ministry of Defence, the Cabinet Office and the Department for Education, he built an outstanding reputation as an adviser on technology, leadership and future planning. He has also held Futurist-in-Residence positions at Imperial College London and the Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge, while serving as an Executive Fellow at Henley Business School and lecturing at London Business School for more than a decade.

Throughout his career, Richard has become one of the most influential voices on innovation and artificial intelligence through his books, journalism and public speaking. His internationally bestselling book ‘Future Files’ established him as a leading futurist, followed by acclaimed titles including ‘Future Minds’, ‘The Future: 50 Ideas You Really Need to Know’, ‘Digital Vs Human’, which explored the relationship between AI, robotics and society, ‘The Future for Children’ and ‘Beyond Busy’. Beyond his publishing success, Richard has written extensively for Fast Company Magazine, McKinsey & Company, the Copenhagen Institute for Future Studies and other international publications, while continuing to blog on robotics, artificial intelligence, education, energy and emerging technologies.

As an AI speaker, Richard Watson offers audiences an exceptional combination of strategic foresight, technological expertise and practical business insight. Rather than focusing solely on today’s developments, he helps organisations understand how artificial intelligence will reshape industries, workforces and society over the coming decades. Drawing on decades of research, advisory work and teaching, Richard translates complex technological trends into engaging, accessible presentations that equip leaders with the knowledge and confidence to navigate uncertainty, embrace innovation and make smarter long-term decisions in an AI-driven world.