Tom Petch Keynote Speaker

Tom Petch is a British filmmaker, former military officer, and author known for his compelling storytelling that draws from his extensive experience in the British Army.

Serving for eight years, Tom held diverse roles, including tank commander, adjutant, aide de camp, and Troop Commander in the elite 22 SAS. His military career took him from gathering intelligence on the Khmer Rouge in the dense jungles of Cambodia to facilitating peace negotiations with Bosnian Serbs, giving him a rare perspective on the complexities of modern warfare and diplomacy.

After retiring from the military in 1997, Petch channeled his unique experiences into a successful career in film, founding a production company and working across advertising and film for nearly three decades. His directorial debut, The Patrol captured the gritty reality of British soldiers deployed in Afghanistan, receiving four-star reviews and winning the Raindance Film Festival award in 2013 for its raw, authentic storytelling.

In addition to his filmmaking achievements, Tom is the author of Speed. Aggression. Surprise. published in 2022, an in-depth account of the secret origins of the SAS, offering readers unprecedented insights into the founding and tactics of this elite force. His deep knowledge of military history and firsthand experience has made him a sought-after voice in media with appearances on Sky News, BBC, and LBC, as well as guest spots on podcasts, including a popular three-part series on the SAS’s operations in France during 1944.

As a keynote speaker, Petch captivates audiences with his experiences from both the battlefield and behind the camera, sharing the leadership lessons and resilience required in high-stakes environments. His work continues to bridge the gap between military and civilian perspectives, bringing attention to the human side of conflict and the complex histories of elite military units.