Frank Gardner OBE is the BBC's security correspondent and one of Britain's leading voices on international security, terrorism, and Middle Eastern affairs. A former investment banker turned frontline journalist, he combines deep regional knowledge with first-hand experience of global conflict.
Frank joined the BBC in 1995, becoming Middle East Correspondent in Cairo before taking on his current role as security correspondent. He has reported from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay and covered global conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. In 2004, he survived a near-fatal Al Qaeda attack in Saudi Arabia that left him permanently paralysed from the waist down. He returned to frontline reporting the following year.
Drawing on his harrowing experience in Saudi Arabia, Frank recounted his story in the bestselling memoir Blood and Sand. He went on to write his first spy thriller, Crisis, which became a Sunday Times No. 1 bestseller, while Far Horizons also earned acclaim for its vivid travel stories. Frank contributes regularly to the Economist, Sunday Times, and Daily Telegraph, and has been awarded an OBE for services to journalism.
A natural storyteller and engaging host, Frank brings wit, charm, and insight to interviews, panel discussions, and live events, and has been recognised with the University of Southern California’s Tommy Trojan Trophy for distinguished speaking. He shares first-hand experiences from the frontlines of global conflict, combining personal anecdotes with a deep understanding of the Middle East, international security, and the art of survival.
Book Frank for unique perspective, compelling storytelling, and a front-row perspective on international security, terrorism, and the Middle East.
How can I book Frank Gardner for my next event?
Email frank.gardner@getapeptalk.com, or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Frank Gardner for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Frank Gardner's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Frank directly.
What topics does Frank Gardner specialise in?
Frank Gardner specialises in discussing international security, politics, middle eastern affairs and more.
What is Frank Gardner's speaking style like?
Frank captivates audiences with his engaging storytelling and deep insights into global security. His compelling personal experiences and expertise provide valuable perspectives for navigating today’s complex geopolitical landscape.
Does Frank Gardner offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Frank Gardner offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.