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Keynote SpeakerHelle Thorning-Schmidt

Former Danish Prime Minister and Former CEO of Save the Children

Helle Thorning-Schmidt has an extensive background spanning politics, international relations and business. In 2017 she was named as one of the world’s greatest leaders by Fortune magazine. As leader of the Denmark’s Social Democrat party for 10 years and Prime Minister from 2011-2015, she steered the country through a difficult... Read more

Watch Helle Thorning-Schmidt in action

Popular Talks by Helle Thorning-Schmidt

  • Inclusive Leadership
  • The future of Denmark, Europe, EU
  • Women in Business and Politics
  • Trust in society; Trust in Governments; Trust in Leadership
  • Leadership
  • How has COVID changed the workplace?
  • Social Networks

Biography

Helle Thorning-Schmidt has an extensive background spanning politics, international relations and business. In 2017 she was named as one of the world’s greatest leaders by Fortune magazine.

As leader of the Denmark’s Social Democrat party for 10 years and Prime Minister from 2011-2015, she steered the country through a difficult financial crisis while reducing child poverty and increasing spending on education. She was the first woman to hold both positions.

Following her term as PM, Helle was the Chief Executive of Save the Children, overseeing the work of 17,000 staff in 120 countries to reach around 50 million children every year in some of the most difficult and challenging contexts. She was deeply engaged in highlighting the humanitarian crises in Yemen and Syria, and the Rohingya refugee crisis.

Ms Thorning-Schmidt remains deeply engaged in these geopolitical issues as a member of several foreign policy think tanks, including the US Council on Foreign Relations, the European Council for Foreign Relations, and the Atlantic Council International Advisory Board. Helle is also a member of the Berggruen 21st Century Council.

In 2017, Helle was a co-chair of the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, and is on the board of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. Today Helle uses her deep political and international expertise to advise a range of businesses and not-for-profit groups.

Helle is non-executive Director on a number of Boards – Vestas, one of the world’s leaders in sustainable energy; DJE Holdings, a global communications firm that partners with businesses and organisations to evolve, promote and protect their brands and reputations; Safelane, a global leader in clearing landmines and the explosive remnants of war; Neurons Inc ApS, a leader in combining neuroscience and AI to take the guesswork out of advertising, and VISTA Equity Partners, an American investment firm focused on financing and forwarding software, data and technology-enabled startup businesses. Since 2020 Helle has served as Co-Chair of The Oversight Board, an independent body created to help Meta answer some of the most difficult questions around freedom of expression online; as well as Chairman for the Danish Football Union’s Governance Committee.

Helle has authored a number of books, including her memoirs from a feminist perspective and devotes much of her time to defend and renew progress, free speech, human rights and democracy. As a strong champion of women and girls’ rights throughout her time in government and at Save the Children, she continues to remain passionate about women’s empowerment and trans rights

Helle was previously a member of the European Parliament. She has a Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Copenhagen and a Master’s Degree in European Studies from the College of Europe in Bruges.

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How to book Helle Thorning-Schmidt as a keynote speaker

How do I book Helle Thorning-Schmidt for a keynote speech?

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

What are Helle Thorning-Schmidt's speaking fees?

Helle Thorning-Schmidt'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 Helle tailored to your event.

What topics does Helle Thorning-Schmidt speak about?

Helle Thorning-Schmidt speaks on Brexit, Europe, Geopolitics, Government & Politics, Inspirational Women. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Helle to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Helle Thorning-Schmidt available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Helle Thorning-Schmidt for events worldwide, subject to Helle'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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt 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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt 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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt?

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 Helle can accommodate.

Can Helle Thorning-Schmidt tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Helle Thorning-Schmidt 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 Helle can offer.

What languages does Helle Thorning-Schmidt present in?

Helle Thorning-Schmidt 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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Helle Thorning-Schmidt's areas of expertise include Brexit, Europe, Geopolitics, Government & Politics, Inspirational Women. To get a clear sense of Helle'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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt speak at?

Helle Thorning-Schmidt can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Brexit, Europe, Geopolitics, Government & Politics, Inspirational Women is relevant. Details of Helle'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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt 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 Helle Thorning-Schmidt is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Helle Thorning-Schmidt?

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