Baroness Martha Lane-Fox

Co-Founder of Lastminute, Board Member of WeTransfer & Chanel, Trustee of The Queens Commonwealth Trust

Martha Lane Fox, the co-founder of Lastminute.com, is a prominent British businesswoman, philanthropist, and public servant, making her an ideal keynote speaker for International Women's Day. Known for her pioneering efforts in the digital and business sectors, Martha's career trajectory is a testament to innovation, resilience, and impactful leadership.

After co-founding Lastminute.com, Martha served as Managing Director until November 2003, later continuing as a non-executive director. Her entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there; she is also a non-executive director at renowned companies such as Marks & Spencer, MyDeco.com, and the Women’s Prize for Fiction. Additionally, she co-founded Lucky Voice, a successful karaoke company that blends online and offline experiences.

Martha's influence extends beyond the corporate world. In March 2010, she established the Digital Public Services Unit within the Cabinet Office, subsequently joining the Cabinet Office’s Efficiency and Reform Board. She championed the Networked Nation manifesto, which aimed to unite various sectors in promoting digital inclusivity. Her dedication to digital literacy and inclusion led to significant government support, including an event hosted by Prime Minister David Cameron at 10 Downing Street.

A committed philanthropist, Martha is a trustee for Reprieve, a charity advocating for victims of extreme human rights abuses through legal action and public education. She is also a patron of CAMFED, an education-focused pressure group, and founded her own grant-making trust, Antigone. Her contributions to the digital economy and charitable sectors earned her the title of Commander of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours. The same year, she was named one of the 100 most powerful women in the UK by BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour and was made a life peer in the House of Lords, becoming Baroness Lane Fox of Soho.

Martha's recognition as one of the most influential British entrepreneurs underscores her significant impact. She was ranked 15th on Richtopia's list of 100 Most Influential British Entrepreneurs in 2015 and elected a Distinguished Fellow of the BCS in 2016. Her insights on integrating online and offline business models, coupled with her vast experience across multiple sectors, make her a highly sought-after speaker. As a keynote speaker, Martha Lane Fox inspires and motivates by sharing her journey, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation and inclusive leadership.

---

---