​Penny Mordaunt Keynote Speaker

​Penny Mordaunt is a trailblazing figure in British politics, recognized for her historic role as the first and only woman to serve as Secretary of State for Defence—and as the first and only woman to be Minister for the Armed Forces. Over a 14-year parliamentary career, she held nine ministerial roles, four in Cabinet, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to public service and leadership. As Paymaster General, she became the UK government’s first cross-government defensive cyber lead and spearheaded the redevelopment of the nation’s civil contingencies and resilience strategy.​

Expanding her international outlook, Penny served as Secretary of State for International Development, collaborating with UN agencies and representing the UK at the World Bank. As Trade Minister, she brokered new trade agreements, oversaw the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and established economic accords with multiple US states—undertaking the longest ministerial tour of America since Winston Churchill during WWII. Prior to her parliamentary tenure, she worked across various sectors and served as Head of Foreign Press for the 2000 Bush presidential campaign in the United States.​

A former Royal Naval Reservist for a decade, Penny now holds the honorary rank of Captain affiliated with MCM2 Squadron. She co-authored the bestselling “Greater: Britain After the Storm,” which earned the Parliamentary Book Award for Best Non-Fiction by a Parliamentarian in 2021. Her forthcoming book, “Pomp and Circumstance,” scheduled for release in Autumn 2025, explores Britain’s traditions and their role in shaping the nation’s future. She gained public attention as Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council, presiding over the Accession Council following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing and King Charles III’s coronation. ​

Renowned for her eloquent speeches in the House of Commons, Penny has been honored with accolades such as Parliamentary Wit of the Year and Spectator Speech of the Year. She has been featured among Grazia and Vogue’s most influential women and is one of only four women invited to address the Saints and Sinners Club, joining the ranks of Princess Anne, Margaret Thatcher, and Dame Vera Lynn. In 2023, she was named Ally of the Year by the LGBT+ Conservatives, reflecting her ongoing commitment to inclusivity and diversity. ​