Former Cabinet minister and broadcasting favourite Michael Portillo is coming to Aberdeen this November for a special breakfast event as part of the Ultimate Masterclass Festival.
The former Secretary of State turned television presenter will take to the stage to share stories from an extraordinary life spanning the highest levels of British politics, broadcasting and adventures across some of the world's greatest railway journeys.
The son of a Spanish refugee, Portillo rose through the ranks at Westminster to become one of the Conservative Party's most prominent politicians, serving in the governments of Margaret Thatcher and John Major and holding senior Cabinet positions including Secretary of State for Defence.
His political career also produced one of the most memorable moments in modern British election history when he unexpectedly lost his Enfield Southgate seat at the 1997 General Election.
But defeat would ultimately begin an extraordinary second act.
Portillo reinvented himself as one of Britain's best-known broadcasters, becoming a familiar face on political programmes alongside Diane Abbott and Andrew Neil before finding a new audience through his hugely popular railway documentaries.
His Great British Railway Journeys series and subsequent international adventures have taken him across Britain and around the world, exploring countries, communities and their histories through their railways.
During the special UMF breakfast - delivered in partnership with Boskalis Subsea Services and mental health charity SAMH - Portillo will reflect on his journey from Westminster to television, his experiences working alongside some of the defining political figures of recent history and what a life spent observing politics has taught him about power and its ability to disappear almost overnight.
Ryan Crighton, host of UMF, said: "There aren't many people who could spend the first half of their career sitting around the Cabinet table and the second travelling the world in brightly coloured jackets, but that is part of what makes Michael Portillo's story so fascinating.
"His life has taken him from the very heart of British politics to railway stations in just about every corner of the world, and along the way he has developed into one of our most recognisable and entertaining broadcasters.
"Michael has witnessed political history first hand, experienced spectacular success and equally spectacular defeat, and then completely reinvented himself. There will be plenty to talk about and I suspect plenty of laughs along the way."
Vikki Thom, Head of Business Development and Marketing at Boskalis Subsea Services, added: "One of the things that makes UMF so special is the chance to hear directly from people with incredible stories and experiences. Michael Portillo's journey has been unlike most, taking him from frontline politics to some of the world's most memorable railway journeys, and we're delighted to welcome him to Aberdeen.
“This breakfast is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to bring people together, connect with peers and clients, and enjoy an engaging and entertaining start to the day."
Hazel McIlwraith, Director of Fundraising & Major Appeal at SAMH, said: "We are delighted to once again be involved with the Ultimate Masterclass Festival, which has become a standout event in Aberdeen's calendar. UMF consistently brings people together to hear inspiring stories, challenge perspectives and spark meaningful conversations.
“Beyond the exceptional speakers, the festival helps shine a spotlight on important causes and creates valuable opportunities to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing. We are proud to be part of an event that not only educates and entertains, but also encourages people to connect, reflect and support one another."
The Ultimate Masterclass Festival, delivered by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce and Boskalis Subsea Services, has become a flagship event for Aberdeen, bringing some of the biggest names from sport, business, media and culture to the city.
This year's festival has already welcomed four-time Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah, bestselling psychologist and author Dr Julie Smith, will soon welcome Spice Girls icon Mel C.
Previous editions have welcomed Sir Chris Hoy, Louis Theroux, Davina McCall, James Corden, Grace Beverley and Jamie Genevieve, with more than 6,000 people attending the 2025 series alone.
Breakfast with Michael Portillo takes place at P&J Live on 26th November 2026.
Tickets are available to book now at www.umf.events.