Paul McNamee is one of the UK’s most respected editorial leaders, shaping national conversations at the intersection of media, politics and social change. As the former Editorial Director of The Big Issue Group, he spent nearly two decades redefining how purpose-led journalism can drive both commercial success and meaningful societal impact.
A four-time British Editor of the Year and Hall of Fame inductee, Paul has led The Big Issue through significant transformation—successfully navigating the shift to digital-first publishing while protecting its unique street sales model and social mission.
Speaking topics include:
Trust in the Age of Noise
How organisations can build, protect and sustain trust in a fragmented media landscape. Moving beyond the social media debate, Paul explores what credibility really looks like today and how organisations can avoid dilution while amplifying the right voices.
Social Impact That Drives Real Change
Drawing on his work with The Big Issue and the Changemakers platform, Paul highlights how grassroots organisations and the third sector are not just contributors but critical drivers of societal progress.
Adaptation, Reinvention & Resilience
Why following the herd is the biggest risk organisations face. Paul shares lessons from repeatedly reinventing a national media brand and how leaders can embrace change by pulling the right threads of influence and innovation.
Bridging Politics and Business
With experience working alongside policymakers and APPGs, Paul offers practical insight into how organisations can effectively engage with political systems to influence change and unlock opportunity.
Paul started his career in local journalism in Northern Ireland before co-founding influential music magazine Blank, Paul went on to write for major titles including The Guardian, Daily Mirror, Belfast Telegraph and The Irish Times. His breadth of experience across media, culture and politics gives him a rare, insider perspective on how narratives are built and how trust is earned.
Why Book Paul McNamee
– Award-winning editorial leader with national influence
– Trusted voice across media, politics and social impact
– Engaging, insightful and thought-provoking speaker
– Brings real-world case studies from leading a purpose-driven media brand
– Ideal for leadership events, communications teams, policy forums and purpose-led organisations
Alongside his editorial leadership, Paul is a familiar broadcast voice, regularly appearing on BBC and Sky programmes including Newsnight and Politics Live, where his sharp commentary and memorable insights often shape wider public debate.
