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

  • (75)
  • (4)
Michelle MACE Curran - Image 14 (March 2, 2026) - Michelle Mace Curran Las Vegas

Michelle Mace Curran, a distinguished and inspirational keynote speaker based in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Michelle is not merely a pilot; she is a trailblazer who navigates audiences through captivating journeys woven with her rich experiences in the aviation industry. With an unwavering passion for flying and a gift for storytelling, Michelle leaves […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (52)
  • (2)
First Sergeant Matt Eversmann - Image 09 (January 29, 2026)

First Sergeant Matt Eversmann’s harrowing experience during the Battle of Mogadishu, famously depicted in “Black Hawk Down,” has become a testament to courage and leadership under fire. His story not only highlights the chaos of combat but also underscores the profound lessons of duty and resilience that are essential in both military and civilian life. […]

  • Travels from: West Palm Beach, FL
  • Military Speakers
  • (21)
Alexandra Carter - Image 08 (January 27, 2026)

Alexandra Carter is a Clinical Professor of Law and the Director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School. In 2019, Professor Carter was awarded the Columbia University Presidential Award for Outstanding Teaching, Columbia’s highest teaching honor. Her first book, Ask for More: Ten Questions to Negotiate Anything, was published by Simon & Schuster on […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Negotiation Speakers
  • (49)
America Ferrera

America Ferrera is perhaps best known for her fearless portrayal of “Betty Suarez” on ABC’s hit comedy Ugly Betty and “Carmen” in the popular film The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Ferrera’s Ugly Betty role earned her an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award, as well as ALMA and Imagen Awards. America Ferrera is an award-winning actress and […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Celebrity Speakers
  • (28)
DJ BritLee

Never afraid to go try new genres, DJ BritLee emotive musical selections are his own therapy.  Having grown up on his father’s eclectic combination of funk music (George Clinton, Morris Day), European electronica (Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream), synth-infused 80s music (Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, Human League)… all which became infused with his own love for various […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mobile DJ
  • (8)
Darryl Strawberry

Darryl Strawberry is more than a baseball legend; he embodies resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of faith. Revered for his formidable presence on the baseball diamond and his inspirational journey of personal redemption, Strawberry has transcended sports to become a beacon of hope and motivation for audiences worldwide. His impact extends beyond the game, […]

  • Travels from: St. Louis, MO
  • Religious Speakers
  • (31)

Connie Podesta is a game-changing, idea-generating ball of fire whose rare blend of humor, substance, style and personality have made her one of the most memorable, in-demand speakers in the world today. 25 years. Two million people. 1000 organizations. Hall of Fame speaker. Award-winning author. Nine books. Former radio/TV personality. Human relations expert. Therapist for 30 years. […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (19)
  • (2)
Valorie Burton - Image 15 (February 13, 2026)

In the dynamic landscape of professional speaking, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Valorie Burton. A beacon of wisdom and empowerment, Valorie is renowned as a life strategist and international speaker, spearheading transformative conversations that transcend boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide. As the CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute, her […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Motivational 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.