Award-winning journalist, associate editor and weekly political columnist for the Times newspaper, Baron Daniel Finkelstein OBE is a prolific force in print and politics, and a sought-after speaker at corporate, public affairs and charity events. Funny and informative, he tells stories from his time in politics and newspapers, bringing the latest news from the political frontline and dazzling his audiences with witty examples of how politicians influence people.
Showing an early and active interest in politics, he joined the National Committee of the Social Democratic Party from 1981 – 1990, and moved to the Conservative Party from 1990 after the dissolution of SDP. Here, he quickly rose through the ranks. He began the first of the three main jobs of his career in 1992, becoming the Director of the Social Market Foundation, a social policy think tank which did pioneering work in public service reform.
In the Conservative party, he became adviser to John Major in his time as Prime Minister. His brilliant work for John prompted him to be awarded an OBE in John Major's resignation honours list. Staying with the conservatives, he became a close adviser and speech-writer to the then new party leader, Hon William Hague. Daniel continues to work closely with the leading Conservative in Westminster, drawing on his many years in political service. In 2013, Lord Finkelstein was granted a peerage and sits in the House of Lords as a Conservative peer.
A consummate professional and highly sought-after speaker, whether on Newsnight or Question Time; sharing a platform with Bono or Tony Benn; or appearing on podcasts with Frank Skinner and David Baddiel, Daniel never fails to impress with his wealth of knowledge and political insight.