The Rt Hon James Heappey

Former UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces (2020–2024)
Expert in Geopolitics, Global Security & Strategic Leadership

The Rt Hon James Heappey is a globally respected political leader, strategist and former UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces who helped shape Britain’s response to some of the most defining security challenges of the 21st century.

As Minister, he oversaw the UK’s military response to the war in Ukraine, coordinated armed forces support during the Covid-19 pandemic and led strategic operations from Kabul to Khartoum and the Red Sea. With more than 20 years of combined military and political experience, he brings a rare, first-hand understanding of geopolitics, global security and leadership under pressure.

During his time in office, Heappey became the UK’s longest-serving Defence Minister in two decades. He played a pivotal role in refreshing Britain’s defence strategy putting innovation, AI, emerging technologies and human capability at the heart of modern military readiness. He led the taskforce responsible for sourcing and supplying critical weapon systems to Ukraine and helped redefine how nations respond to rapidly evolving conflicts.

Heappey has travelled to more than 80 countries as part of the UK’s Defence Diplomacy strategy, building a deep understanding of shifting power dynamics between the West, China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. Before entering politics, he served as an officer in the British Army with deployments to Iraq, Northern Ireland and Afghanistan – experiences that give him a unique perspective on risk, resilience and decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Today, James Heappey is a sought-after international speaker, senior advisor to leading organisations, including M&C Saatchi World Services, and a trusted voice on global security, innovation and strategic resilience. He equips business leaders and decision-makers with the foresight and clarity they need to navigate an increasingly uncertain world.