Alan West Keynote Speaker

First Sea Lord & Chief of Naval Staff (2002–2006)
Security Minister, UK Home Office (2007–2010)
Elevated to the House of Lords as Baron West of Spithead (2007); awarded Companion of Honour (2015)

Alan West's Biography

Admiral Lord Alan West is one of the UK’s leading voices on security, defence, and leadership, with over fifty years of service in the Royal Navy and government. He served at sea in major conflicts, held senior command appointments, and was First Sea Lord & Chief of Naval Staff from 2002–2006.

From 2007–2010, he served as Security Minister in the UK Home Office, where he shaped counterterrorism strategy during a period of heightened threat. In the House of Lords since 2007, he remains an active contributor to debates on global security, NATO, and the evolving challenges of hybrid warfare.

Lord West has been decorated for his service and leadership, including appointment as a Companion of Honour in 2015. He is the author of several books, and in recent years has appeared at international conferences, contributing commentary on cybersecurity, geopolitical risk, and the impact of AI on national defence.

As a speaker, Lord West brings a rare combination of operational experience, strategic insight, and moral clarity. He offers audiences guidance on leading in crisis, anticipating emerging threats, and building resilient institutions. His global outlook and commitment to ethical leadership make him a powerful voice for organisations and governments seeking clarity in uncertain times.