Speaker

Karen               Blackett

CBE

A proven and experienced turnaround CEO, Karen has a track record of delivering business growth and returns through focusing on brand reinvention, brand salience, operational excellence and organisational transformation.

Known for her transformative work with large, complex, multi-disciplined and diverse businesses, Karen delivers commercial success through a laser focus on managing topline and bottom line P&L delivery. She creates vibrant cultures, energised teams, and consistently delivers revenue growth by re-engaging consumers with brands, and by finding new growth target audiences and markets.

As the former UK president for WPP, Karen was responsible for managing US$2 billion of revenue and 13,000 people.

Karen also has extensive multinational experience having previously served as MediaCom’s EMEA Chief Operating Officer, with key priority markets being Russia, Turkey, France, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Czech Republic, South Africa and Israel.

Karen brings a different ingredient that creates the winning difference in business.

Biography

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Book Karen

Andrew Hickman
O7538438455
andrew@speakingoffice.com

“Karen possesses a unique ability to inspire those around her, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity thrives. Her expertise and passion for her work will undoubtedly lead to continued success.”

Recent news & events.

  • University of Portsmouth Graduation

    “Your career, like your life, isn’t meant to be easy.” Karen delivered the graduation speech for the class of 2025 at Portsmouth University as Chancellor.

  • The Big Creative UK Summit: Investment For Growth

    Karen hosted a panel called Passion and Pragmatism at the 2025 edition of Big Creative UK Summit: Investment for Growth, in March.

  • Global Week at Portsmouth University

    Celebrating cultural diversity and fostering international connections.

  • The Labour Party Conference

    Business Day - Fireside chat with Chancellor Rachel Reeves

  • The Huxley Summit, British Science Association

    As a representative of the media sector, Karen looked at the key scientific and social challenges facing the UK in the 21st century.

  • The Pipeline - Leadership Summit

    Karen delivered a personal branding Workshop.

  • Diageo IWD Global Broadcast

    Celebrating International Women's Day highlighting the achievements and contributions of women in the industry.