Ben Wallace Keynote Speaker
- Former Secretary Of State For Defence (2019 - 2023)
- NATO’s longest-serving Defence Secretary in recent times
- Decorated former army officer with substantial knowledge of the Middle East and the Pacific theatre
Ben Wallace's Biography
Ben Wallace, a British politician and expert in national security, has held roles as the UK Secretary of State for Defence as well as Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime. Ben has been known for his involvement in strengthening NATO alliances and for his leadership during the UK’s military response to global conflicts. His expertise make him a highly sought-after speaker on topics such as defence strategy, international security as well as geopolitical shifts.
Ben graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1991, before serving in the British Army. He was commissioned into the British Army’s Scots Guards shortly after where he served in Northern Ireland, Germany, Cyprus, and Belize.
Ben joined the aerospace company QinetiQ in 2003 having already entered politics as a Conservative Member of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, and was elected as the member of Parliament at the Lancaster and Wyre constituency in 2005 where his political career began. Over his tenure, Wallace has held several key positions, including Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime (2016-2019), where he then went on to hold the position of Secretary of State for Defence in 2019, where he later resigned in 2024.
Ben’s leadership was particularly pivotal during the UK’s military involvements abroad and in strengthening the country’s position within NATO. His strategic decisions have been crucial in navigating the complex landscapes of modern warfare and diplomacy. His military background has greatly influenced his approach to defence and security policies. Ben has also contributed to various discussions and policies on economic crime, leveraging his position to enhance the UK’s capabilities in combating financial offences. His approach has earned him respect and recognition on both national and international platforms.
His career in security is marked by his commitment to enhancing national defence strategies. His work continues to influence global defence policies, making him a keynote speaker on international security and defence topics.
Ben Wallace's Speaking Topics
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Geopolitics
Regions of expertise are Russia, Middle East, Pacific & US
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Security
Espionage; Counter Terrorism; Cyber Crime; Economic Crime; Money Laundering; Organised Crime
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Defence
Military Reform; Defence Reform; Special Forces; Lessons of Ukraine; Defence Technology
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Politics
Longest Serving Conservative Minister; Longest Security Minister; Secretary of State for Defence; Served 5 Prime Ministers Including Trump, Biden & Macron