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

  • (38)

Sybil Clark Amuti stands as a beacon of inspiration, a catalyst for change, and a bridge between people and their potential. With a magnetic presence, an unwavering commitment to empowerment, and a passion for fostering connections, Sybil has carved a distinctive niche as an event host, on-air personality, and community builder. Sybil Clark Amuti is […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Event Emcee
  • (24)
  • (4)
JP Pawliw-Fry - Image 06 (January 26, 2026)

JP Pawliw-Fry is an internationally renowned speaker, thought leader, and co-author of the global bestseller Performing Under Pressure: The Science of Doing Your Best When It Matters Most. With a career dedicated to enhancing leadership performance, emotional intelligence, and resilience, JP has captivated audiences around the world, delivering actionable insights that empower individuals and organizations […]

  • Travels from: Toronto, ON
  • Peak Performance
  • (11)
Jim Knight

Jim Knight is a renowned keynote speaker, author, and training and development expert known for his expertise in helping organizations of all sizes achieve excellence and what he often refers to as “rock star” status. With a background in education and a passion for helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential, Jim Knight has […]

  • Travels from: Winter Garden, FL
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (12)
Aerial Silks

Our aerial silks artist ascends from a suspended fabric without the use of safety lines. This heart-stopping act will leave your guests amazed. Our performers use the silks to fly, drop, swing, and spiral their bodies elegantly in and out of tricks. This act can be done from our portable rigs or can be rigged […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Aerial Performers
  • (25)
  • (1)

Jen Su is renowned for her dynamic presence on both screen and airwaves, Jen Su stands as a paragon of versatility and charisma. With a diverse portfolio spanning news broadcasting, radio hosting, acting, and music, Jen Su has etched her name as an indelible force in the entertainment industry. As an esteemed event emcee, Jen […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Celebrity Emcees
  • (13)
Lee Rubin

Lee Rubin is a dynamic keynote speaker, author, and team-building expert who leverages his unique background as a former captain of the Penn State Football Team to inspire and educate organizations on building high-performance teams. With over two decades of experience in leadership development and team dynamics, Lee has become a sought-after speaker for conferences, corporate […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Peak Performance
  • (8)
Eli Walker: Wellness Speaker. Emcee

As the founder of the internationally-acclaimed wellness brand Drunk Yoga® (now The Uplift Center), Eli Walker pioneered the wellness entertainment movement to bridge the gap between #selfcare and #communitycare. Now, Eli helps organizations and individuals do the same: break the rules to get over themselves, engage community and spark radical belonging through the power of play. When you […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Workplace Wellness
  • (14)
Robyn O’Brien

Robyn O Brien leverages her expertise to guide businesses of all sizes through the evolving demands of 21st-century consumers. With a profound understanding of the intersection between food, health, and business, Robyn has become a renowned figure globally, reshaping corporate strategies and advocating for a healthier, more sustainable future. Recognized as one of the foremost […]

  • Travels from: Boulder, CO
  • Business 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.