Ben Hodges Keynote Speaker

Lieutenant General (Ret.) Ben Hodges is a highly respected military leader and strategic thinker, recognised globally for his expertise in transatlantic security, NATO operations, and European defence policy. As Commanding General of United States Army Europe, he led US Army forces across 51 countries, strengthening alliances and enhancing deterrence in response to rising geopolitical tensions.

Across a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, Hodges held a series of senior operational and leadership roles, including command of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and senior positions within Multi-National Corps – Iraq and Regional Command South in Afghanistan. He also served as Commander of Allied Land Command, NATO’s primary land warfare headquarters, contributing to alliance-wide readiness and strategic planning.

Hodges has been at the forefront of shaping NATO’s response to evolving security threats, particularly in Eastern Europe following Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Known for his clarity of insight and pragmatic approach, he brings a frontline perspective on modern conflict, logistics, and the future of warfare.

Following his military career, he has continued to contribute to strategic debate on defence, resilience, and geopolitical risk, including his tenure as Pershing Chair in Strategic Studies at the Center for European Policy Analysis. Today, he remains an influential voice on global security and regularly advises organisations and audiences navigating an increasingly complex international landscape.

An authoritative and engaging speaker, Ben Hodges equips audiences with a clear understanding of geopolitical risk, leadership under pressure, and how organisations can build resilience in an era of global uncertainty.