Speakers

Raised between Kenya and the UK, Mike McKinlay’s path to success is defined by resilience and ambition. Homeless at just 16, he began his career in hospitality, later gaining valuable experience in finance and advertising. Drawing on these foundations, Mike went on to found Creare, a digital agency that grew to become one of the largest web and SEO companies in the UK. Under his leadership, Creare achieved rapid growth and industry recognition before being sold to private equity in a multi-million-pound transaction. Today, Mike is the Managing Director of Pod Digital Marketing Ltd, where he continues to innovate in digital strategy and online growth. A dynamic speaker and respected business leader, he shares powerful insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and turning adversity into opportunity. Mike’s journey reflects a deep belief in the power of perseverance, creative thinking, and building businesses that make a meaningful impact.