
Think Like a Spy Strategic Relations Workshop
Learn and apply the techniques used by intelligence officers to build strategic relationships, lead others and navigate complexity
The Intelligence Maven
Julian Fisher is the author of Think Like A Spy: Master the Nine Secret Skills of Influence and Leadership.A former British official operating overseas, Julian is a specialist in human intelligence (HUMINT). He is a keynote speaker, trainer and consultant.Julian also acts as technical advisor for productions in the espionage genre, including Apple TV+’s smash-hit Slow Horses. He was the lead-trainer on Channel 4’s TV series Spies.

Testimonials for Julian's Workshops:"The workshop was one of the most exciting, and also useful, things I've done in ages. Even though I've left the corporate world behind, the OTTERS cycle and the frameworks you shared have really stuck with me. The V3pO model for setting objectives, DIG UP for targeting, and GRADE for working out what motivates people have given me a proper, practical way to sort out my priorities and, most importantly, to figure out who can actually help me get my little new business off the ground and how to approach them. Instead of just networking and hoping, I'm now much more deliberate about who I reach out to and how I open the conversation.Having spent over twenty years in IT software sales, I can honestly say these techniques should be in every salesperson's kit, like the bits on first impressions, cultivation, elicitation and influence, which map straight onto what it takes to win and keep clients. And I could immediately see how much C-level managers would get out of it too, especially the influence, strategic transcendence and leadership awareness sections. The course was also deeply personal and relatable."
[Agnes Azzopardi - Business Founder]"Julian's ability to distil complex concepts into practical, actionable models resonated profoundly with both our soldiers and officers, fundamentally reshaping how they approach problem-solving and decision-making in dynamic environments. His teachings transcend the military context, offering universally applicable tools for navigating complexity and ambiguity in any domain."
[Major G Davies, Army Special Operations Brigade]"I'm incredibly grateful to Julian Fisher for offering the "Think like a Spy Strategic Relations Workshop." It's an absolute game-changer. Having access to this level of invaluable knowledge is truly benefiting my personal and professional journey. The Workshop was exceptionally well-structured across its four sessions, with engaging instruction and fascinating, real-life stories. These stories bridged the gap between theory and reality, making the learning process so much more memorable. The practical exercises prompted deep self-discovery and reflection, giving me a clear picture of where I stand today and exactly which skills I need to focus on to move forward.
As an actor, I was surprised to realise how relevant my existing skills are to building strategic relations. This workshop gave me a refreshing, fresh perspective on how to channel those strengths. The structure, clarity, and guidance make execution feel doable, and I now feel ready and confident to begin achieving my vision.I'm also very thankful for Julian's inclusive and considerate instruction style. Learning within an intimate cohort of like-minded people made the experience feel even more supportive, and Julian was incredibly generous with his time and guidance. Above all, the experience was genuinely enjoyable and fun!
[Momo Yeung - Actor]"We were delighted to host Julian Fisher, the esteemed intelligence and espionage specialist and author of Think Like a Spy, for an insightful workshop and lunch with our team. It was refreshing to explore communication and relationship-building through his unique lens, drawing on principles that are highly adaptable to so many industries."
[Head of Client Engagement for a Zurich-based wealth management company]"Julian’s masterclass offers a fascinating exploration of how to build strong, lasting relationships across both professional and personal spheres. It focuses on identifying the right allies, securing their genuine investment both internally and externally, and motivating them to help deliver your vision."
[Head of External Relations for a London-based political think-tank]
The Workshop
The Workshop is a live online programme designed to help you navigate complexity, build influence and leadership skills, and develop strategic relationships.Delivered through four interactive sessions over two weeks, and limited to no more than twelve participants, it offers direct access to Julian in a focused and highly practical personal development environment.Drawing on techniques adapted from the world of espionage and agent handling, the workshop explores how trust, vision and strategic communication create opportunities in professional and leadership settings.• Develop the mindset and behaviours that underpin effective leadership and influence
• Learn how to build impactful relationships, using the agent-recruitment cycle taught to intelligence officers globally
• Strengthen your critical and strategic thinking in high-pressure environments, using techniques of strategic transcendence
• Enhance your personal impact through self-awareness, stronger communication, and storytelling
• Equip yourself with practical tools to enhance social capital, build effective relationships and develop a satisfying and rewarding career.Each delegate will leave with a personalised strategic development plan to help apply the lessons in their own environment. The programme also includes access to session recordings, all workshop materials and a signed copy of Julian’s book, Think Like a Spy.

Who is the workshop for?
• Senior leaders seeking greater strategic influence
• Professionals aiming to accelerate career progression
• Students and graduates entering competitive professional environments
• Entrepreneurs and independent professionals building networks and influence
• Sales and business development professionals cultivating high-value relationships
Workshop Details
Designed to minimise diary disruption, the Workshop is delivered online over two evening sessions in one week, with a weekend to reflect before two final evening sessions the following weekThe Workshop for the Autumn 2026 Cohort will be delivered on Wednesday 30th September and Thursday 1st October, followed by Monday 5th and Tuesday 6th October 2026Each session will be hosted on Zoom between 1900 and 2030BSTZoom links and workbooks will be emailed to delegates ahead of the first sessionAll delegates will be sent a signed copy of Julian’s book Think Like a SpyDelegates will receive a personalised strategic development plan after the workshopRecordings of each session will be available to delegates for four weeks after the Workshop endsLimited to TWELVE delegates, to maximise value for all participantsAll for a fully inclusive price of £185.00Refunds will be available for cancellations made at least five working days in advance
Reserve your place on the Autumn 2026 cohort
Limited to ten delegates. Book now to avoid disappointment.