Laura Richards

Laura Richards, AI strategist, innovation expert and keynote speaker on people-first AI, tech for good, and the intersection of emerging technology and public policy.

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Laura Richards learned to build AI apps on maternity leave – with twins! What started as a way to solve everyday problems quickly became a deep dive into AI, no-code development, and machine learning, setting her on a path to becoming a recognised authority on people-first AI and responsible technology adoption.

With a decade of experience working at the intersection of emerging technology, strategic communications, and public policy, Laura specialises in helping businesses, charities and public-sector organisations navigate AI adoption – without sidelining the humans they serve. She has previously advised government bodies, industry leaders, and non-profits, working with organisations such as DCMS, BEIS, Digital Catapult, The UK Tech Cluster Group, Comic Relief, and more.

Her work spans AI innovation, ethical tech deployment, and strategic communications, with projects ranging from advising professional services firms on AI strategy to leading the development of Machine Learning models designed to detect online exploitation. She previously partnered with Digital Catapult and Comic Relief to launch the North East Social Tech Fund, a £100k initiative supporting charities in trialling emerging technologies for social impact.

A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), Laura served on its AI in PR panel from its inception until 2020. She is also a member of DiverseAI and the Responsible AI Institute, advocating for a broader range of voices to shape the future of artificial intelligence. Alongside her work in AI, she teaches media, PR, and entrepreneurship as an Associate Lecturer at Newcastle University and is the course leader for the CIPR Specialist Diploma in Public Affairs with the PR Academy.

Laura’s insights on AI and innovation have been featured in numerous industry publications, including FuturePRoof x #PRStack: AI in PR and Think with Google. She writes a monthly column on AI and technology for business magazine Bdaily and is the host of The Idea Junkies Podcast, where she brings together innovators, thinkers, and changemakers from across technology, business, science, politics, spirituality and more.

As a speaker, Laura translates complex technology into compelling narratives that resonate with business leaders, policymakers, and creative industries alike.

Whether discussing the future of AI, examining technology’s impact on society, or sharing stories of bold innovation, Laura delivers sharp insights with clarity, warmth, and authority—making her a sought-after keynote speaker. Contact Laura Richards to discuss speaking at your event via a Specialist Speakers agent on+44 [0]1455 633289.