Kevin Gaskell is widely recognised as one of the most inspirational business leaders of his generation. With a career that spans senior leadership in some of the world’s most respected companies, alongside personal achievements in some of the harshest environments on earth, he has built a reputation as a dynamic and engaging speaker. His story is one of determination, resilience and vision, offering audiences a powerful blend of corporate expertise and adventurous spirit.
Kevin began his professional life as a civil engineer, working on major projects such as the Birmingham NEC and the M54 Motorway after winning the Institution of Civil Engineers Prize at university. Although successful, he became frustrated with inefficiencies in the industry and chose to pursue an MBA. This transition marked the start of a remarkable corporate career. He became a management accountant with Dow Corning Manufacturing before joining Porsche, where he rose rapidly through the ranks to become Managing Director at the age of 32. From there, he went on to lead BMW GB to record growth, steer Lamborghini, and reimagine the automotive retail sector with CarsDirect.com. He would later expand his influence across a range of industries, serving as CEO of multiple companies, including Epyx and EurotaxGlass and building more than £3 billion in shareholder value.
Alongside his corporate achievements, Kevin has gained recognition for his extraordinary personal pursuits. He has climbed Mount Everest, trekked unsupported to both the North and South Poles and led expeditions that combined adventure with philanthropy, including joining members of England’s Rugby World Cup-winning team on the HeadNorth Polar Expedition to raise funds for charities such as the Royal Marines Charitable Trust and The Lewis Moody Foundation. He has also presented Extreme Classrooms: The Highest Classroom on Earth, showcasing education in extreme conditions, and continues to serve on numerous boards and as an investor across sectors. These endeavours underline his reputation as a thought leader and his ability to inspire beyond business.
What makes Kevin such a compelling motivational speaker is the way he translates this breadth of experience into actionable lessons for his audiences. His journey demonstrates that with vision, persistence and teamwork, extraordinary results are possible in any field. Companies including Google, PwC, Virgin and Volkswagen trust him to energise and empower their teams, and his speaking engagements combine powerful stories with practical strategies that audiences can immediately apply. Kevin Gaskell does more than motivate; he provides the mindset and tools to achieve lasting success in both business and life.
