John Heaver is an accomplished strategist, leadership expert, and former Royal Marines Officer whose career has spanned the frontline of conflict, senior roles in global banking, and advisory work across the public and voluntary sectors. With two decades of experience leading people through pressure, uncertainty, and rapid change, he is sought after as a speaker for his ability to connect powerful real-world stories with practical leadership lessons. His blend of military discipline, corporate insight, and mentoring expertise makes him a compelling choice for organisations looking to inspire resilience, teamwork, and growth.
Commissioned into the Royal Marines at the age of 19, John quickly established himself as a capable and trusted leader. He commanded teams on multiple tours of Afghanistan and worked closely with elite international units, learning how to build trust and deliver results in the most demanding of environments. Later, he became responsible for shaping and training the next generation of Royal Marines Officers, a role that required patience, foresight, and the ability to develop leadership potential in others. These formative experiences built the foundation of his enduring philosophy of service, adaptability, and shared purpose.
Transitioning to the corporate world, John rose through senior positions at Barclays, one of the UK’s largest financial institutions. He served as Strategy and Operations Lead, Head of Counter Economic Crime, and later Head of Strategy and Transformation, where he delivered major global programmes, strengthened organisational resilience, and advised boards on complex change. Alongside this, he continued to mentor and guide leaders, contributing to the Forces Employment Charity and, more recently, taking on an advisory role with the Special Projects Group Ltd. His career reflects both breadth and depth — from operational command on the battlefield to strategic leadership in the boardroom.
As a speaker, John brings a rare combination of authenticity, clarity, and inspiration. He weaves together lessons from combat and corporate life, demonstrating how leaders can empower their teams, foster trust, and thrive under pressure. Audiences leave his sessions not only motivated but also equipped with actionable strategies to improve performance and strengthen their own leadership. It is this practical impact, combined with his engaging presence, that makes him a highly valued speaker for organisations across sectors.
