Grant Shapps

Grant Shapps is the former MP for Welwyn Hatfield. During his 19 years as a parliamentarian, he held a number of Ministerial roles. Notably, as Secretary of State for Defence, he was responsible for the UK’s response to emerging global security threats. His time in the role included Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent war between the two nations,  as well as the October 7th attacks on Israel and the ensuing escalation of conflict in the Middle East, and ongoing threats from Iran, North Korea and China. 

Among his other Ministerial roles, Grant served as Secretary of State for Security and Net Zero. His tenure here was also marked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - due to energy supply chain issues caused by the invasion, the department devised a scheme which reduced energy bills for both households and businesses. As well as this, he emphasised the need for technological research and innovation to achieve net zero targets, and became the first British Minister to invest in the generation of nuclear power for four decades. This belief in innovation being the best way to drive sustainability also featured during his time as Transport Secretary, which was marked by the department’s publication of the UK’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan which outlines how all modes of transport would align with the UK’s target to achieve net zero by 2050. 

Having also served as Housing Secretary and Business Secretary, Grant attributes his storied Ministerial career to organisational leadership, communication and time management - traits that saw him be named as the Duracell Bunny by the Financial Times for his enthusiasm and energy. In speeches, he weaves together his experience as a Minister to cover topics including geopolitics,  and how we have moved from a post-war era into a pre-war one (and what that means for businesses), and how sustainable practices can be an opportunity for businesses to innovate. He also offers his insights into what makes a strong leader, emphasising communication and time management - as well as offering a look behind the curtain of British politics.