Dame Stella Rimington: Former Head MI5

  • Highlights:
Reading time: 3 min
Reviews: (2 reviews)
Rated 5 out of 5
  • Travels from: London, UK
  • **Fee range: On Request

Keynote Topics

  • MY LIFE AS THE SPYING DAME
  • LEADING AS A WOMAN IN A MAN’S WORLD
  • Leadership & Change
  • Political & Current Affairs
  • Counter Espionage & Counter Terrorism
  • Women Pursuing Professional Careers

Dame Stella Rimington DCB is the former Director General of the Security Service (MI5). She has published several acclaimed novels and a best-selling autobiography, “Open Secret” (Arrow, 2002).

She joined the Security Service in 1969 as a full time employee. An expert on managing risk, she worked in counter subversion, counter espionage and counter terrorism, becoming successively director of all three branches.

Dame Stella Rimington was appointed Director General of MI5 in 1992, the first woman to hold the post and the first Director General to be publicly named. During her time as Director General she pursued a policy of greater openness for MI5, giving the 1994 Dimbleby Lecture on BBC TV and several other public lectures, and publishing a booklet about the Service.

Retiring from MI5 in April 1996, Dame Stella Rimington went on to write novels that blended issues of terrorism, risk, class and gender. “At Risk” (Arrow, 2004) mixes East End gangsters, hierarchy and the role of women in government organisations; “Secret Asset” (Arrow, 2006) plots the task of an MI5 intelligence officer in the search for a terrorist bent on bringing down the British establishment.

Her most recent novels are “Rip Tide” (2012) and “The Geneva Trap” (2013). “Close Call” (the 8th novel about her principal character, Liz Carlyle) will be published in July this year.

Dame Stella is currently an Associate Director of CPS, where she does executive coaching and mentoring. In 2011, she served as Chair of the judging panel for the Booker Prize for Fiction.

During her career at MI5, from 1969-1996, Rimington worked in all the main fields of the Service’s responsibilities – counter-subversion, counter-espionage and counter-terrorism – and became Director of all three Branches. She led the Service’s counter-espionage work in the closing days of the Cold War when the intelligence services of the Soviet Union and her Warsaw pact allies were engaged in a strong assault on Britain’s secrets.

As the Cold War drew to a close, Dame Stella Rimington led a delegation from the Service to establish contact with the former KGB. She was in charge of the Service’s work against international and Irish terrorism at the time of the Lockerbie airline disaster and when the Provisional IRA was actively targeting British military personnel on the continent of Europe.

Former Director General of MI5, Non-Executive Director for Marks & Spencer
First female Director General of MI5
First woman promoted to the rank of Director of a Service
Appointed Dame Commander in 1996
Awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Social Science from Nottingham Trent University
Chair of Judges for the Man Booker Prize 2011

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Dame Stella Rimington | Former Head MI5

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Overview:

This listing features a highly praised speaker who has made a significant impact on event attendees. Reviewers consistently highlight her humility, engaging personality, and fascinating life experiences, which captivated guests and added great value to their events.

Strengths:

  • Charismatic and engaging presence
  • Inspiring life story that resonates with audiences
  • Positive feedback from all attendees

Weaknesses:

  • Some attendees felt inadequate in comparison to her achievements

Overall, she is regarded as a fantastic addition to any event, leaving guests thoroughly impressed and entertained.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (48)
Kristin Bock - Image 02 (January 27, 2026)

Kristin Bock, a dynamic force in the realm of nonverbal communication. Kristin is the founder of Body Language Blueprints, an innovative online platform dedicated to enhancing communication skills by leveraging the subtle art of body language. With a unique approach that merges scientific insights with practical applications, she empowers professionals to stand out in person, during […]

  • Travels from: Oshkosh, WI
  • Communication Speakers
  • (17)
Nikolas Badminton - Image 02 (February 5, 2026)

Nikolas Badminton is a global futurist speaker and Chief Futurist that mentors top executives and the highest levels of government to explore desirable futures, anticipate unforeseen risks, and strengthen strategic planning. He has spent 30+ years working with leadership at over 400 leading organizations at the frontline of futures, strategy and disruption, including NASA, Disney, […]

  • Travels from: Toronto, ON
  • Futurists Speakers
  • (27)
  • (7)
Sterling Hawkins - Image 21 (January 29, 2026)

Sterling Hawkins is a transformative figure in the realm of organizational culture and business innovation. Known for his groundbreaking work on creating cultures of innovation and resilience, Hawkins has emerged as a preeminent speaker and thought leader. His signature speech, “No Matter What,” encapsulates his philosophy of overcoming challenges and fostering an environment where innovation […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (34)
  • (3)
Mark Black - Image 05 (February 13, 2026)

Mark Black is a renowned resilience expert whose life story is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and the human spirit. Born with a life-threatening heart defect, Mark faced insurmountable odds from the very beginning. He underwent two open-heart surgeries before his first birthday, setting the stage for a life marked by extraordinary […]

  • Travels from: Dieppe, New Brunswick
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (22)
Marco Tempest - Image 01 (January 21, 2026)

Marco Tempest is an internationally renowned magician who blends illusion, technology, and storytelling to create unforgettable experiences. With a unique blend of expertise in both traditional magic and cutting-edge technology, Tempest has established himself as a pioneer in the field of techno-magic, captivating audiences at conferences, corporate events, and high-profile gatherings around the world. His work […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (47)
Margaret Brennan

Margaret Brennan has reported on politics, international affairs, and global markets for nearly two decades. Currently the moderator of CBS News’ Face the Nation and the network’s senior foreign affairs correspondent, she is one of the most visible faces in political news today and only the second-ever female host of the 63-year-old program. Brennan focuses […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Journalism Speakers
  • (20)
Kay Firth-Butterfield - Image 03 (January 23, 2026)

Kay Firth-Butterfield is an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) ethics and governance, championing the responsible development and deployment of technology. As the CEO of Good Tech Advisory LLC, she leverages her extensive legal and academic background to guide organizations toward ethical AI practices. Her leadership in this domain earned her a spot among TIME’s 100 […]

  • Travels from: Various Cities
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (59)
Alden Mills

Alden Mills is on a mission to help 100 million people Be Unstoppable. With more than 40 years of experience failing and succeeding in a vast array of different environments from sports, military, and business to nonprofits and community action groups, he learned success is driven by one vital factor – leadership – of oneself […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.