John Sitilides is an internationally respected Geopolitical Strategist and National Security Expert, recognised not only for his policy expertise but for his rare ability to motivate leaders to think and act boldly in the face of uncertainty. With more than 30 years of experience advising U.S. government officials, global corporations, and military leaders, John brings clarity, confidence, and strategic courage to audiences navigating an increasingly complex world. His unique blend of global intelligence and inspirational messaging empowers teams to reframe risk as opportunity and lead with resilience.
As a former Diplomacy Consultant to the U.S. Department of State (2006–2023) under four presidential administrations, John now analyses foreign policy and global strategy priorities for the Trump campaign, offering trusted, bipartisan insight at the highest levels. He serves as a Senior Fellow for National Security at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, contributing to leading research on global threats, and is Principal at Trilogy Advisors LLC, advising Fortune 500 companies across energy, finance, and defence on how to anticipate geopolitical disruption. This experience gives him unmatched authority as a motivational speaker who turns complexity into clarity.
John’s keynote presentations, including his signature talk, “Washington & the World: The New Geopolitics of Trade, Technology, Energy & War”, go far beyond current events. They inspire action. Delivered through a visually engaging, zero-text slide deck of maps, charts, and world leader imagery, his presentations are tailored for decision-makers who must lead amid uncertainty. Whether addressing a boardroom or a global summit, John speaks to the core challenges of leadership in turbulent times and leaves his audiences equipped to rise above them. He has delivered keynote addresses at the U.S. Naval War College, New York Life Investments Global Summit, and the Washington Oil & Gas Forum, among others.
What makes John a standout motivational speaker is his ability to connect geopolitical insight with personal leadership impact. His TEDx talk, “American Identity on the Global Stage”, reflects his powerful storytelling and grounded, calm presence. He’s a regular voice on CNN, Bloomberg, BBC, Fox News, and CNBC, with published analysis in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and Politico. His reach extends to platforms like NPR, and his media commentary is valued for cutting through noise to deliver a clear, actionable perspective, the same clarity that energises and empowers his live audiences.
In a world where change is constant and pressure is high, John Sitilides delivers more than global analysis; he delivers transformational mindset shifts. He motivates leaders to embrace complexity, act decisively, and build the strategic confidence needed to lead into the future. An inspired organisation needs a speaker who can educate, elevate, and inspire with authority and heart. John is the voice of steady leadership in an unpredictable age.
