Denise Holt Keynote Speaker

One of the most successful female diplomats of her generation
Spanish and Latin America specialist with a wide ranging portfolio of business interests, including banking, health and education
Chair or member of wide range of internal Board and other committees

Denise Holt's Biography

Dame Denise Holt DCMG was British Ambassador to Spain and Andorra (2007–09) and British Ambassador to Mexico (2002–05).

Denise has held a broad portfolio of senior roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Her appointments have included Chair of M&S Bank plc (2013–19), Non-Executive Director of HSBC Bank plc and subsequently HSBC UK (2011–21), and Non-Executive Director of Iberdrola SA (2011–20), one of Europe’s leading energy companies.

As a Governor and Non-Executive Director of Nuffield Health (2013–18), Denise developed a particular interest in issues relating to public health. She currently serves as Chair of the Nuffield Health Governors’ Remuneration Committee. Earlier public service appointments included membership of the NHS Pay Review Body and the inaugural Board of Ofqual, the examinations regulator.

Denise has a longstanding involvement in higher education. She is former Chair of Council at the University of Sussex and previously served on the Council of the University of Bristol. She has also been Chair of the Institute of Latin American Studies (University of London) and a board member of the Cañada Blanch Centre for Contemporary Spanish Studies.

Denise joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in 1970 as Research Analyst for Spain and Portugal. Subsequent postings included Director of the Central America Section and First Secretary at the British Embassy in Brazil. She also served as Assistant Director for Human Resources at the FCO (1999–2001) and Director for Migration (2005–07).

Diplomacy, international relations and geopolitical affairs

Leadership and governance in complex organisations

UK–Europe and UK–Latin America relations

Public policy, migration and international cooperation

Boardroom leadership, risk and corporate governance

She has represented the United Kingdom at the highest levels of international diplomacy, serving as British Ambassador to Spain, Andorra and Mexico during periods of significant political and economic change.
She brings a rare perspective shaped by leadership across government, banking, energy, healthcare and higher education, helping organisations understand risk, governance and long-term strategic decision-making.
She translates complex geopolitical, regulatory and international affairs developments into clear insights that help leaders navigate uncertainty and operate effectively across global markets.
She has held senior board and advisory roles with leading institutions including HSBC, Iberdrola, M&S Bank and Nuffield Health, giving audiences practical lessons in leadership, oversight and corporate responsibility.
Her briefings help executives understand the intersection of public policy, business and international relations, enabling more informed decisions in an increasingly interconnected world.