William Higham: Consumer Futurist

    William Higham is a consumer futurist, keynote speaker, and founder of Next Big Thing who helps organizations understand emerging trends and future consumer behavior.

    • Highlights:
      • Founder and CEO of Next Big Thing
      • Global keynote speaker and futurist specializing in consumer behavior
      • Advisor to major organizations including HSBC, BBC, and Mindshare
      • Former marketing strategist at Sony Music
    • Formats:

      Keynote Speaker and Consumer Trends Futurist

    • Audiences:

      Corporate leaders, marketing teams, innovation strategists, brand managers, and organizations seeking insights into emerging consumer trends and market opportunities.

    • Outcomes:
      1. Understanding of future consumer behavior and market trends
      2. Strategies to anticipate change and adapt business models
      3. Insights to build stronger connections with evolving audiences
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: London, UK
    • **Fee range: On Request

    Keynote Topics

    Five reasons consumer-led innovation is the easy way to boost your bottom line.

    In this keynote, speaker William Higham presents five reasons consumer-led innovation is the best and most effective way to reach goals and increase your bottom line.

    In this eye-opening talk, William explains the power behind Control, Comfort and Community and what they mean for to customers and business.

    This talk is focused on recruitment and how to ensure the right talent in your organization that will support and lead to a better tomorrow.

    This talk is perfect for HR professionals and leaders.

    Having a good corporate culture has become one of the most important things in business, however, it is also one of the most challenging and complex things to change.

    In this keynote, William shares his very best advice to creating an Innovation Culture.

    Talent Short Bio

    William Higham is a globally recognized consumer futurist, strategist, and keynote speaker specializing in future trends, innovation, and evolving consumer behavior. As the founder and CEO of Next Big Thing, he advises major corporations on how to anticipate market shifts and develop strategies that resonate with tomorrow’s consumers.

    Higham’s expertise lies in combining behavioral research, cultural insight, and data analysis to identify emerging trends and predict how consumer attitudes and behaviors will evolve. His work helps organizations understand how changing lifestyles, technologies, and social values shape purchasing decisions and brand relationships.

    Earlier in his career, Higham gained experience in consumer strategy while working at Sony Music, where he contributed to marketing campaigns for global music icons including Michael Jackson, Motörhead, and Alice Cooper. This experience sparked his fascination with how culture and creativity influence consumer trends.

    William Higham is a worldwide authority on future and evolving consumer behaviours. An expert on innovation, trends, and marketing, he consults industry leaders and major corporations on future trends and strategic decision-making, runs innovation workshops, writes and speaks on trends.

    William Higham is a recognized strategist, speaker and futurist. He is also the founder and CEO of the strategic consultancy Next Big Thing which he founded in 2002. His practical approach makes his keynotes actionable and relevant for clients all over the world. William is also regularly featured in the media from BBC to The Times where he offers his perspective on the future.

    William Higham gained his initial experience with consumer strategy at Sony Music in the 1990s, where he worked on marketing communications for Michael Jackson, Motörhead, and Alice Cooper. William has a natural interest for people and how the present affects the future. He describes himself as a dual personality with his passion for soft data and creative communities while still being devoted to hard facts and numbers.

    William’s approach to predicting future trends and behaviours is based on science and research about people’s attitudes towards change. William and his team use a unique combination of research methodologies that allows him to predict behaviour and share his valuable insights with clients.

    As a speaker he aims to inspire and help different organisations on future trends and behaviors by sharing his perspective and experience. William has spoken at many different events and while he specializes in consumer behaviour, he also offers his insights and knowledge on the broader perspective of change and future.

    Upon founding Next Big Thing, William has become one of the most respected future behaviorists in the world. His consultancy service uses consumer research and analysis to identify upcoming markets, providing corporate clients with an unbeatable insight into buying behaviour.

    Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on  LinkedIn

    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

    • (54)

    Sara Sutton, known as the “Queen of Remote Work,” has revolutionized the way professionals and companies view remote employment. With over 20 years of experience in the online job market industry, she has been a pioneering advocate for flexible work environments, long before they became a mainstream necessity. Sara’s leadership and vision have not only […]

    • Travels from: Boulder, CO
    • Organizational Skills
    • (14)
    Julie Foudy

    Julie Foudy, former captain of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, is not only a sports legend but also a highly sought-after keynote speaker. With an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, she has inspired millions through her achievements on the field and her leadership off it. As […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Sporting Speakers
    • (8)
    BE BETTER THAN YOUR BS Risha Grant

    After years of conversations and consultations, research and interviews regarding diversity & inclusion, Risha Grant has learnt that companies don’t have diversity problems; they have people problems. For too long, diversity has been blamed for loss of productivity, discrimination and a litany of other workplace faux pas, but diversity has never been the issue. It can’t […]

    • Travels from: Tulsa, OK
    • Diversity Speakers
    • (32)
    Mermaids - Image 01 (January 29, 2026)

    Elevate your corporate and private events with the mesmerizing allure of our mermaids performers. As purveyors of magical experiences, we bring a touch of fantasy to your gatherings, creating memories that will linger in the hearts of your guests. Our mermaids performers embody grace and elegance, seamlessly gliding through events with an otherworldly charm. Whether […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Water Performers
    • (22)
    Kina Hart

    Kina Hart’s professional journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to workplace safety. The day that changed her life began unremarkably, much like any other workday. Yet, what unfolded was an unexpected workplace accident that left an indelible mark on her life. Now, Kina channels her experience into a potent message […]

    • Travels from: Ione, WA
    • Safety Speakers
    • (21)
    Redefined - Zainab Salbi

    Zainab Salbi is a world-renowned humanitarian, social entrepreneur, and author whose life’s work has been dedicated to advancing women’s rights and promoting global peace. As the founder of Women for Women International, she has helped transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of women survivors of war by providing the resources, support, and community they […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Inspirational Speakers
    • (43)
    • (1)
    Trevor Noah

    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 […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Celebrity Speakers
    • (7)
    Ryan Holiday: Marketing Expert

    Few writers have done more to bring ancient, timeless wisdom and cutting-edge marketing strategies together than Ryan Holiday. His philosophically driven bestselling books have sold over 10 million copies and spent more than 200 weeks on bestseller lists. His books are taught in colleges and marketing programs around the world, including Trust Me I’m Lying, […]

    • Travels from: Austin, TX
    • Marketing 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.

    Speakers Inc.

    Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

    We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

    Find the Perfect Speaker

    Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

    © 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.