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Keynote SpeakerPaul Polman

Business leader, campaigner and co-author of “Net Positive: how courageous companies thrive by giving more than they take”, Former CEO of Unilever

Paul Polman works to accelerate action by business to tackle climate change and inequality. A leading proponent that business should be a force for good, Paul has been described by the Financial Times as “a standout CEO of the past decade”. As CEO of Unilever (2009-2019), he demonstrated that a... Read more

Popular Talks by Paul Polman

  • Sustainable Capitalism
  • Regaining Control
  • Business Ethics
  • Climate Change
  • Leadership

Biography

Paul Polman works to accelerate action by business to tackle climate change and inequality. A leading proponent that business should be a force for good, Paul has been described by the Financial Times as “a standout CEO of the past decade”.

As CEO of Unilever (2009-2019), he demonstrated that a long-term, multi-stakeholder model goes hand-in-hand with excellent financial performance. Paul was a member of the UN Secretary General’s High-Level Panel which developed the Sustainable Development Goals and which he continues to champion, working with global organizations and across industry to advance the 2030 development agenda.

Paul’s new book, “Net Positive”, is a call to arms to courageous business leaders, setting out how to build net positive companies which profit by fixing the world’s problems rather than creating them. He Chairs IMAGINE, a social venture dedicated to systems change, and Saïd Business School, and he is Vice-Chair of the UN Global Compact as well as a B Team Leader. Paul is Honorary Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce, which he led for two years.

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How to book Paul Polman as a keynote speaker

How do I book Paul Polman for a keynote speech?

You can book Paul Polman through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Paul's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.

What are Paul Polman's speaking fees?

Paul Polman's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Paul tailored to your event.

What topics does Paul Polman speak about?

Paul Polman speaks on Business & Management, Cities & Environment, Climate, Emerging Markets, Strategy. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Paul to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Paul Polman available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Paul Polman for events worldwide, subject to Paul's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.

Does Paul Polman deliver virtual or online keynotes?

Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Paul Polman is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).

How long is a typical keynote by Paul Polman?

Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Paul can accommodate.

Can Paul Polman tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Paul Polman on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Paul can offer.

What languages does Paul Polman present in?

Paul Polman delivers keynotes in English. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.

What makes Paul Polman a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Paul Polman's areas of expertise include Business & Management, Cities & Environment, Climate, Emerging Markets, Strategy. To get a clear sense of Paul's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.

What kind of events can Paul Polman speak at?

Paul Polman can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Business & Management, Cities & Environment, Climate, Emerging Markets, Strategy is relevant. Details of Paul's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.

Does Paul Polman offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?

Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Paul Polman is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Paul Polman?

We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Paul Polman, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Paul's current availability for your dates.