Founder of Deilightful Group, The World’s First Banking Whistle-Blower on Race Inclusion, Former HSBC Vice President of Global Banking Sale, Social Justice Advocate & Author of the ‘Project Speak Up’ Report

Ian Clarke is an influential leader and change-maker whose voice is reshaping conversations on equality, leadership and social justice. Born in London and openly racially non-binary and LGBT trailblazer, Ian has become a celebrated figure for their commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. With ten major awards recognising his philanthropic and entrepreneurial impact, Ian has gained international respect for challenging systemic barriers and inspiring progress. As the founder of Deilightful Group, he combines business innovation with human rights advocacy, making a tangible difference across industries and societies worldwide.

Ian brings together a distinguished background in finance, leadership and social impact. After earning a BSc in Financial Markets and Management from the University of Manchester, he embarked on a career that saw rapid advancement through investment banking. Beginning with the Royal Household, Ian went on to join HSBC in 2007, where he rose to senior roles, including Director of Global Payments and later Vice President of Global Banking Sales. His 14-year career across two continents provided experience in guiding some of the world’s largest firms on financial success and sustainable growth.

In 2021, Ian transitioned from banking to focus on driving systemic change, founding Deilight Consulting, a pioneering culture transformation practice and social enterprise. That same year, he earned accreditation in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University and began serving on the Advisory Board of CTI Global for East Africa, applying technology to expand healthcare, agriculture and financial inclusion. With dual BSc degrees, extensive certifications and a track record of guiding thousands of colleagues through leadership of employee networks, Ian combines technical authority with human-centred advocacy. His career reflects a rare balance of corporate achievement and social mission, positioning him as a transformative leader in both business and equality.

Ian is a published author and thought leader whose work has reached audiences around the world. His landmark ‘Project Speak Up’ report, which investigated the role of banks in perpetuating inequality, was translated into 16 languages and shared across 120 countries, setting seven world records in diversity and inclusion. Most recently, he authored ‘Deilight: The Untold Story of Diversity in the City‘, a book that explores the intersections of finance, identity and systemic change. Alongside this, Ian contributes to global media, offering commentary on leadership, equality and social justice.

Why Hire Ian Clarke?

Ian is booked as a speaker because he combines professional expertise with lived experience to deliver powerful and memorable insights. His keynote at the 28th Annual Seminar of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda highlighted his authority on leadership, change management and lifelong learning, resonating deeply with audiences. His groundbreaking ‘Project Speak Up’ report established him as the world’s first banking whistle-blower on race inclusion and influenced historic changes at international banks.

As founder of Deilightful Group, Ian has built a commercially successful platform dedicated to equality and culture transformation. He is widely recognised for his warm and engaging speaking style, translating complex themes such as identity, oppression and futurism into compelling and practical lessons. With numerous international awards, media features and board-level influence, Ian is consistently sought after to inspire and empower audiences across industries. His sessions are remembered not just for their honesty but for sparking real change.

To book Ian to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.