Lionel Barber: Financial Journalist

  • Highlights:
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: London, UK
  • **Fee range: On Request

Keynote Topics

Lionel Barber was the Editor of the Financial Times from 2005-2020. Under his editorship, the paper won three ‘Newspaper of the Year’ awards, transformed the newsroom into a world class digital-first operation, and solidified its legacy as one of the world’s leading business news organisations, renowned for its integrity and accuracy.

Lionel Barber began his career in 1978 as a reporter for the Scotsman. Three years later, he joined the Sunday Times and in 1985 he joined the Financial Times as a business reporter.

He advanced to Washington correspondent in 1986 before being appointed Brussels bureau chief in 1992. He continued to progress as news editor, lead of the continental European edition and US managing editor.

During Lionel Barber tenure, the Financial Times surpassed the milestone of one million paying readers, over 75% digital subscribers, and won numerous awards including the British Journalism Awards, Gerald Loeb, Overseas Press Club, Society of American Business Editors and Writers and Society of Publishers in Asia for its world-class journalism globally.

Lionel Barber is an experienced broadcaster and commentator who has co-written several books, including a history of Reuters news agency, “The Price of Truth”, and has lectured on foreign policy, transatlantic relations and Europe.

He has received numerous prestigious awards including the Laurence Stern Fellowship at the Washington Post (1985), a Woodrow Wilson Foundation fellowship (1991), a visiting scholarship at the University of California at Berkeley (1992) and a visiting fellowship at the Robert Schuman Center at the European University Institute in Florence (1996).

In 2011, he was appointed to the Board of Trustees at The Tate and serves as a trustee on the board of the Carnegie Corporation of New York. He graduated in 1978 from St Edmund Hall, Oxford University, with a joint honours degree in German and modern history and speaks fluent French and German.

Lionel Barber is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Carnegie Corporation of New York. And in 2016, he was made a Chevalier in the French Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur for his journalism.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Lionel Barber | Expert Financial Journalist

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

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

  • (20)
Dima Ghawi Headshot

Dima Ghawi is a Jordanian American award-winning author, leadership keynote speaker, and executive coach. She is the founder of a global talent development company dedicated to advancing individuals in leadership. Through her compelling storytelling and insightful presentations, Dima empowers professionals worldwide to shatter limitations and embrace their full potential. Born in Ankara, Turkey, and raised […]

  • Travels from: Baton Rouge, LA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (19)
The JASMINE STAR Show - Image 03 (March 18, 2026)

Jasmine Star helps entrepreneurs build a brand and market it on social media.  After quitting law school, she picked up a camera, built an internationally recognized business, and teaches others how to do the same. In addition to chasing wild dreams, Jasmine Star works with her husband and grumpy dog, and you’ll likely find her […]

  • Travels from: Newport Beach, CA
  • Business Speakers
  • (16)
  • (7)

As the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at The Walt Disney Company, Duncan Wardle is a globally recognized expert in creative leadership and innovation. His extensive experience at one of the world’s most iconic brands has earned him a reputation as a thought leader in fostering a culture of innovation, design thinking, and disruptive […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (56)
Judson Laipply - Image 03 (March 10, 2026)

Award-Winning Speaker and Inspirational Comedian. Judson Laipply promises to do two things: make you laugh and make you think. And for the last seven years, his passion for both has entertained and educated audiences all over the world. Judson is an award-winning speaker and performer who utilizes a phenomenon labeled “Inspirational Comedy” to blend the […]

  • Travels from: Lakewood, OH
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (41)
DJ CLA-2

DJ CLA is a dynamic and versatile mobile DJ, lighting up Las Vegas with her electrifying performances and exceptional ability to set the perfect tone for any event. With a reputation for blending high-energy beats and smooth transitions, her name has quickly become a sought-after entertainer for weddings, corporate events, private parties, and everything in […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mobile DJ
  • (23)
  • (3)
Jim O’Neill

Jim O Neill is a distinguished economist and former Commercial Secretary to the UK Treasury, recognized globally for his significant contributions to economic research and policy. Serving in the UK Treasury from 2015 to 2016, O’Neill played a pivotal role in shaping economic strategy during a critical period for the UK. His deep understanding of […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Finance Speakers
  • (14)
  • (2)
Adam Cheyer - Image 05 (February 20, 2026)

Best known as a creator of Siri, Apple’s AI assistant, Adam Cheyer is a visionary pioneer in artificial intelligence and computer-human interaction. With a career spanning decades at the forefront of technological innovation, he has helped shape the evolution of AI, voice interfaces, and the future of human-computer collaboration. As an inventor with 39 patents, […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (25)
  • (2)
Jess Ekstrom

Jess Ekstrom is a dynamic and inspiring speaker who has captured the hearts and minds of audiences around the world with her powerful message of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. As the founder of Headbands of Hope, a social enterprise that has donated over one million headbands to children battling cancer, Jess exemplifies the power […]

  • Travels from: Raleigh, NC
  • Inspirational 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.