Martin Gutmann is a globally recognised keynote speaker who helps organisations rethink leadership in an era defined by uncertainty, disruption, and rapid technological change. A Professor at the Lucerne School of Business and Senior Lecturer at ETH Zurich, Martin brings a rare blend of academic rigour and real-world insight to every stage. His work sits at the intersection of history, sociology, and organisational psychology, giving audiences a fresh and grounded perspective on how leadership must evolve. Martin’s ability to translate complex ideas into clear, practical strategies makes him a compelling choice for organisations seeking meaningful and lasting impact.
Martin’s influence extends far beyond the lecture hall. He is the author of the Amazon #1 bestselling book ‘The Unseen Leader’, a work that challenges traditional ideas of leadership and highlights the importance of quiet, strategic influence. His TED Talk, ‘Are We Celebrating the Wrong Leaders?’, with over 2 million views, has sparked a global conversation about what effective leadership truly looks like. Alongside this, Martin is a regular contributor to Forbes, with his ideas also featured in major global publications including The New York Times and Fast Company, reaching over 60 million readers worldwide.
What makes Martin such an effective motivational speaker is his ability to connect past and present in a way that feels both insightful and immediately relevant. He draws on powerful historical examples to illustrate modern leadership challenges, helping audiences understand how to navigate complexity with clarity and confidence. For example, Martin often references early aviation pioneers to demonstrate how leaders can operate without a fixed roadmap, instead relying on judgement, adaptability, and purpose. These stories resonate strongly with senior leaders facing unpredictable environments.
Martin’s global career, spanning six countries, further strengthens his perspective and credibility. As the former Managing Director of the Swiss School of Public Governance, he has worked closely with leaders across business, government, and academia. Today, Martin is widely recognised as an emerging voice shaping the future of leadership, having been named to the Thinkers50 Radar List. Organisations hire Martin to challenge assumptions, inspire new thinking, and equip their leaders with the mindset and tools needed to succeed in a constantly changing world.
