Speaking & Thought Leadership
Bringing Global Insight to the Stage
Edward Mermelstein speaks from experience at the front lines of diplomacy, investment, and international strategy. From advising sovereign funds and family offices to leading New York City’s engagement with the United Nations and the world’s largest diplomatic corps, his career has given him a rare vantage point: the ability to translate complex global dynamics into practical insights for leaders, investors, and policymakers.
Audiences value Edward for his clarity, authority, and storytelling. He doesn’t just analyze trends, he brings them to life through case studies, lessons learned, and a perspective shaped by decades of building bridges between governments, capital, and communities. Whether reflecting on his tenure as New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs, or exploring the future of global investment and urban development, Edward connects the dots between policy and opportunity, diplomacy and resilience.
The result is a speaker who informs, inspires, and equips audiences to think globally and act strategically
Signature Talks
Global Cities and Diplomacy: Building Bridges Between Municipal Leadership and International Partners
Exploring how cities like New York shape international engagement and foster global cooperation through diplomacy at the local level.
Emerging Markets & Subnational Diplomacy: Cities at the Frontline of Global Engagement
When national systems falter, cities and states step up. Edward explores how subnational diplomacy shapes investment and resilience in emerging markets.
Cross-Border Investment: Navigating Legal, Political, and Cultural Complexities
Insights into managing capital flows across jurisdictions while balancing opportunity, regulation, and cultural nuance.
The Future of Urban Development: Investment, Policy, and Community Impact
Examining how foreign direct investment and strategic planning can create sustainable, long-term value for cities.
Crisis and Opportunity: Lessons from Leading New York’s International Affairs Office (2022–2025)
Reflections on transforming global disruptions into actionable partnerships that benefit both governments and investors.
Philanthropy and Civic Leadership: Strengthening Communities Through Global Engagement
How philanthropic platforms and civic institutions can serve as engines of resilience and bridge diverse communities.
From Ukraine to New York: A Personal Journey of Resilience, Leadership, and Global Perspective
Edward shares his immigrant story, lessons in leadership, and perspective on international relations.
Bring global insight, diplomacy, and investment expertise to your stage.
Edward addresses audiences at conferences, summits, policy forums, universities, and corporate gatherings, offering strategic perspectives shaped by more than three decades advising governments, family offices, sovereign funds, and corporations. His public service as New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs and his private-sector leadership uniquely position him to translate global complexity into actionable insights.
