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
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:
Weaknesses:
Overall, she is regarded as a fantastic addition to any event, leaving guests thoroughly impressed and entertained.
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.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

Nouriel Roubini is CEO of Roubini Macro Associates, LLC, a global macroeconomic consultancy firm in New York. He is also Chief Economist for Atlas Capital Team LP, as well as Co-Founder of Rosa & Roubini Associates. At a 2006 address to the International Monetary Fund, Roubini warned of the impending recession due to the credit […]

Tyler Perry is a true renaissance figure in the world of entertainment, renowned for his unparalleled success as a director, playwright, screenwriter, producer, actor, author, and entrepreneur. The Birth of Madea and the Rise of the Chitlin’ Circuit In the early 1990s, Perry started his journey in the entertainment industry with a series of stage […]

Laurence Moroney is a globally recognized authority on artificial intelligence and machine learning. As the former Lead AI Advocate at Google, Laurence brings unparalleled insight into the evolving AI landscape. His mission is clear: to demystify AI and make it accessible across industries. Laurence holds a BSc in Physics and Computer Science and a Postgraduate […]

Trevor Noah is a globally celebrated comedian, television host, and author whose wit, charm, and insightful humor have made him one of the most influential entertainers of his generation. Born in South Africa during apartheid, Noah’s unique perspective on politics, culture, and human relationships is deeply informed by his experiences growing up as a mixed-race […]

April Showers is a trailblazing entrepreneur, author, and keynote speaker whose work sits at the intersection of belief, execution, and ownership. Raised in South Central Los Angeles, April’s entrepreneurial journey began at a young age and has evolved into building one of the most recognizable Black-owned character brands in the country. She is the founder […]

David Avrin is a leading authority in marketing, branding, and customer experience, widely recognized as The Visibility Coach. As one of the most sought-after keynote speakers worldwide, he delivers high-energy, content-rich presentations that engage and inspire audiences across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. From Singapore to Dubai, David’s global reach reflects his […]

Aaron Davis is a beacon of inspiration, a seasoned professional speaker, coach, trainer, and attitude expert. His journey embodies resilience, determination, and the transformative power of a Champion Attitude. Aaron’s personal trials and triumphs have not only shaped his own perspective but have equipped him with profound insights into the profound impact of attitude on […]

As a humanitarian, Mallory Brown uses empathy and a focus the person, rather than the problem, to create the positive change. Her current documentary series, “Walk A Mile”, embarks on a global marathon for women’s empowerment. As a keynote speaker, Mallory shares the humanitarian mindset, with real-life stories of human connection, to provide tools to help […]
No results available
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Connecting you with the perfect speaker.
We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.
© All rights reserved 2026. Designed using Voxel