Colin Richardson MBE is a former Special Forces officer whose career in the Parachute Regiment and 22 SAS taught him what it takes to lead, adapt and succeed in the toughest environments on earth. Today, he shares those lessons as a motivational speaker who inspires audiences to build resilience, embrace change and perform under pressure.
Commissioned from Sandhurst and later selected for 22 SAS, Colin spent decades commanding elite teams on high-stakes missions across Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as low-profile operations in Africa, South America, the Far East and Europe. His leadership roles included heading the SAS Targeting Cell, Special Reconnaissance Unit and UKSF Counter Proxy Forces. Recognised with an MBE for distinguished service, Colin has operated at the very edge of decision-making where preparation, trust and adaptability meant the difference between success and failure.
What makes Colin such an exceptional motivational speaker is his ability to translate extraordinary frontline experiences into practical lessons for everyday leadership and teamwork. He demonstrates how the principles of Special Forces operations, such as clarity of purpose, trust, accountability, and resilience, apply just as powerfully in business, education, and personal growth. His storytelling is both gripping and humorous, ranging from leading complex global counterterrorism operations to his much-loved after-dinner talk "Four Afghans for Christmas".
Colin now works with businesses, governments and organisations worldwide, helping teams unlock their potential and thrive in high-pressure environments. His talks are authentic, impactful and grounded in lived experience, leaving audiences not only motivated but equipped with strategies they can use immediately. Whether speaking on leadership, resilience or the importance of trust and adaptability, Colin Richardson MBE empowers audiences to think differently, act decisively and achieve lasting success.
