Lord Chris Holmes

Lord Chris Holmes of Richmond is widely regarded as one of Britain’s most influential and inspirational leaders. Renowned as the country’s most decorated Paralympic swimmer, he is a passionate champion for diversity, inclusion, and technological innovation. With a remarkable career spanning elite sport, law, and politics, Chris has become a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences with his compelling life story and deep insights into AI, digital technology, and leadership. Among his most celebrated achievements are his nine Paralympic gold medals and his pivotal role as Director of Paralympic Integration for the landmark London 2012 Paralympic Games, which broke records as the first-ever sold-out Paralympic event and reached millions of viewers worldwide.

From an early age, Chris displayed extraordinary resilience and determination. After losing his sight at the age of 14, he embarked on a journey of unprecedented success, becoming one of the most dominant figures in the history of Paralympic swimming. Over nearly two decades, he secured 15 Paralympic medals, including 9 golds, as well as numerous World and European titles. Off the sporting stage, Chris excelled in academia, qualifying as a commercial lawyer specialising in employment and pensions. His influence extended to the public sector, where he took on roles such as Non-Executive Director for UK Sport and the Disability Rights Commission, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering inclusion and fairness across society.

In 2013, Chris was appointed as a Life Peer in the House of Lords, where he has played an instrumental role in shaping policy on digital transformation, social mobility, and financial inclusion. As a trailblazer in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, he introduced the Artificial Intelligence (Regulation) Bill in 2023, advocating for the establishment of a human-centred AI Authority. His efforts were recognised with the prestigious Alan Turing Award, highlighting his leadership in ethical AI governance. His influential 2017 report, “DLT for Public Good”, remains a key reference in discussions on blockchain and digital ledger technology, cementing his status as a thought leader in technological innovation.

As an inspirational leadership speaker, Chris Holmes combines personal triumph with forward-thinking expertise. Drawing from his experiences in sport, law, and public service, he addresses themes of overcoming adversity, embracing diversity, and navigating the future of AI and technology. His engaging storytelling, practical insights, and human-centred approach leave audiences feeling motivated and empowered. Perfect for corporate events, leadership development, and team-building workshops, Chris’s presentations are tailor-made to inspire, inform, and challenge participants to strive for excellence. He is now available for bookings through the Inspirational Leadership Speakers Agency.