The CIPD work in partnership with Wonderly, a division of Haymarket Media Group Ltd to deliver the CIPD Wales Conference

Tori James
Adventurer, Keynote Speaker, Author & Podcast Host
Tori James made history as the first Welsh woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest at just 25 years old. A record-breaking adventurer, she’s skied to the Magnetic North Pole, cycled the full length of New Zealand, and holds the record for the longest sea kayaking expedition in UK waters.
As a speaker, Tori has inspired audiences around the world. She dives into what it takes to build high-performing teams and thrive under pressure, sharing the strategies, mindsets, and beliefs that drove her team to success. Tori’s storytelling is both engaging and uplifting, offering insights into risk, resilience, and how you and your team can unlock your true potential.
Her Everest journey was captured in the BBC documentary On Top of the World, and she’s also hosted ITV’s Big Welsh Adventure, with appearances on numerous shows like the BBC’s One Show. Tori’s Beeline Britain challenge is featured in the award-winning documentary As The Crow Flies, while her book Peak Performance tells the incredible story of her journey from growing up on a farm in west Wales to standing atop the world’s highest peak.
Recognised for her community impact, Tori holds a Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister for her exceptional volunteering and fundraising efforts. Tori serves as President of Girlguiding in Wales, is an ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and a Fellow of British Exploring. She’s a passionate advocate for active travel, championing initiatives like school ‘bike buses’ to help kids experience the joy of cycling and everyday adventures.