Official List: Top 16 Leadership Speakers To Drive Business Growth
Leadership is an important facet of every team, whether it be at work, in sports, or in life-or-death situations such as the frontline. Individuals have to be able to step up to the plate, keep calm in the face of adversity, manage their teammates and make the right decisions.
Why is Leadership Important for Business Growth?
Leadership is defined as the ability to implement change by communicating concepts with others and as a ‘set of behaviours used to help people align collective direction’. Leadership helps people to make decisions in strategic plans, and is a crucial factor in innovating and renewing a business to stay ahead of the curve. Without good leadership, businesses can experience decline, experience problems with staff retention and foster a negative reputation in their respective industry.
Good leadership is a defining factor of a successful business, as without it, employees have no role models or advice to lead them to success. Strong leaders are renowned for their ability to inspire employees to reach their full potential, communicating visions throughout an organisation so employees are all singing from the same hymn sheet. Without leadership, businesses cannot change and improve their services, as they have no direction on what changes to implement.
Source: McKinsey & Co, Harvard Business School & Forbes
Why Should I Hire a Leadership Speaker?
In a world where 77% of organisations are experiencing a ‘leadership gap’ and 63% of Millennials say their leadership skills are not fully developed, it is highly important to begin the journey of investing in leadership training to create the next generation of astute business leaders. Our roster of leadership speakers are all experts on guiding businesses and teams to success, having secured great business growth through their proficient leadership skills. Take a look at our selection of the top 15 leadership speakers to drive business growth below and hire your perfect leadership speaker with The Motivational Speakers Agency today!
Source: LinkedIn
Who Are the Top Leadership Speakers to Hire?
- René Carayol
- Lord Sebastian Coe
- Linda Moir
- Colin MacLachlan
- Brian McBride
- Ben Hammersley
- Brigitte Scheffer
- Johnson Beharry
- Jo Salter
- Pen Hadow
- Pete Cohen
- Gareth Davis
- Nicky Moffat
- Helen Sharman
- Michael Fuller
- Vladimer Botsvadze
René Carayol
Founder & CEO of the Inspired Leaders Network
As a leading expert on leadership, René Carayol is a popular addition to corporate events. He has experience working with top Fortune 500 and blue-chip companies, and regularly shares the top tips he learned from this period with corporate audiences. René is also passionate about diversity and inclusion. He shares with managers and CEOs the value of inclusive leadership, how to build a diverse team and what cultural differences contribute to the workplace.
When booked for events, René leaves audiences inspired to transform their approach to leadership. His anecdotes from the dizzying heights of corporate success are filled with practical advice and guidance on leadership in business.
Speaking Topics:
- Inclusive Leadership
- Manage a Little Less & Lead a Little More
- Collaboration is the New Leadership
- Strength-Based Leadership
Lord Sebastian Coe
Former Chairman of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games & Former Vice-President of the International Association of Athletics Federation
Leading the 2012 London Olympic bid was Lord Sebastian Coe, whose influence proved pivotal in putting the illustrious tournament in British hands for the first time since the second world war. Not since 1948 had London hosted the games and after unsuccessful UK bids from Birmingham and Manchester in previous games, Lord Coe was drafted to chair the British Olympic Association.
The appointment was rewarded, as Lord Coe's strong leadership skills, and 'impressive presentation' was enough to win over the International Olympic Committee. Leading the process from beginning to end, Lord Coe was inspirational in putting on an event to remember.
Speaking Topics:
- The London 2012 Olympic Bid
- The Organisation of the Olympic Games
- Leadership within British & International Athletics
- Themes of Teamwork & Leadership
Linda Moir
Former Director of Customer Service for Virgin Atlantic Airways & Former Head of HR for British Airways
Linda Moir was one of the other big-name leaders associated with the success of London 2012. Employed to oversee the customer experience at London 2012, Linda built a team of 'games makers' who became central to the whole experience at the games. Known affectionately as the 'dream team' - the 15,000-strong team composed of contractors, employees and volunteers underwent many hours of training under Linda's expert leadership. At the close of the Olympics, the team was lauded as one of the great success stories.
It was her dedication and drive to uncover excellence among the 'games makers' that ensured Britain re-established a waning reputation for quality customer service.
Speaking Topics:
- Business Management
- Motivating Your Staff
- Virgin Atlantic
- Organising the 'Games Makers' at London 2012
- Customer Experience
- Incentivising a Team
Colin MacLachlan
Former SAS Soldier & Star of Channel 4's SAS: Who Dares Wins
While in the SAS, Colin MacLachlan learned the importance of strong leadership in business. He spent 25 years in the military, operating as a SAS soldier in many high-risk scenarios. Through this experience, Colin developed his leadership skills. From being taken hostage and rescued by British troops to fighting terrorists in the longest hostage siege on UK soil, Colin has experienced it all. He understands the value of communication and leadership, particularly in situations that rely on strong teamwork.
Colin is renowned for his thrilling, thought-provoking anecdotes at events. He teaches audiences that change is a certainty, and change management helps us to prepare for periods of unrest.
Speaking Topics:
- High-Risk Environments
- Stress & Fear Management
- Leading Under Pressure
- Teamwork & Team Building
Brian McBride
Former Managing Director of Amazon & Former Chairman of ASOS
Brian McBride thrived at the helm of such globally renowned businesses as Amazon, ASOS and T-Mobile. As a speaker, he shares with audiences the skills and strategies that led to his success, key topics at corporate conferences. Your guests will be starstruck by Brian's exciting anecdotes from some of the most recognisable companies in the world.
Among many of his impressive achievements, Brian was the Non-Executive Director of the BBC Executive Board, a member of the UK Government’s Digital Advisory Board and a Managing Director of Amazon. From corporate to political roles, the many impressive positions Brian has held add to his reputation as a transformational business leadership speaker.
Speaking Topics:
- Unforgettable Branding
- Marketing & Advertising
- Rapid Digitisation
- Online Retail
- Business Strategy
Ben Hammersley
Founder & Principal of Hammersley Futures, Editor at Large for WIRED UK
A futurist and technology speaker who has inspired countless corporate audiences with his fascinating command of technology as we know it, and the advancements and problems we face in the future, there is no doubt Ben Hammersley has become a masterful journalist in the technology space.
Having penned bestselling books including a series on Hacking and worked as a digital correspondent for The Times and editor for the UK's Wired magazine, Ben's speeches are especially sought at conferences and university events worldwide.
Speaking Topics:
- Business Development
- Social & Cultural Trends
- Digital Innovation
- The Future of Technology
Brigitte Scheffer
Arabic Correspondent for the BBC
A BBC Correspondent in the Middle East, Brigitte Scheffer has for many years covered current affairs and politics in the Middle East. She has covered devastating terrorist attacks, as well as some of the most high-profile conflicts.
She previously held a directorial role for the Government of Saudi Arabia, leading media relations for the government and royal family. Speaking six languages including Arabic, Brigitte is one of the most extraordinary journalists and broadcasters in the world today.
Speaking Topics:
- International Relations
- Current Affairs
- The Middle East
- Politics
- Media Relations
Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry VC
Former Warrant Officer of the 1st Battalion Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment & Recipient of the Victoria Cross
A military hero, Lance Corporal Johnson Gideon Beharry VC was awarded the Victoria Cross in recognition of two selfless acts of bravery while on duty in Al-Amarah, Iraq. Twice he was in army vehicles attacked by missiles and enemy fire, and twice he steered his colleagues to safety. What makes Johnson a particularly motivational speaker is that audiences feel his stories of incredible bravery, not just on the battlefield but when he came home to recover as well.
And he tells people about the war as it was, rather than how it is portrayed by others who weren’t there - making him a truly inspirational leadership speaker.
Speaking Topics:
- Inspiring a Team
- Bravery
- Challenging
- Leadership
- Drive & Determination
Jo Salter
First Female Fast Jet Pilot of the Panavia Tornado & Director of Global Transformative Leadership for PwC
Named Britain's first female fast jet pilot, Jo Salter is an inspiration to young, female professionals everywhere. She is an advocate for inclusive leadership, an approach that considers the unique contributions of each member of a team.
She is celebrated for her energy and uplifting style of motivational speaking. With experience leading on the frontline, Jo reveals her top tips for leading while under immense pressure when booked for events.
Speaking Topics:
- Gender Equality in the Airforce
- Risk Management
- Thriving in a Male-Dominated Environment
- Leading Under Pressure
Pen Hadow
Record-Breaking Polar Explorer, Honorary President of the British Exploration Society & ED of the 90 North Foundation
Pen Hadow offers unique insight into exploration as well as the plight of the Arctic Ocean, and the threats posed to both the ecosystem and the ice caps. His incredible real-life experiences are ideal to impress guests, with the information he can provide able to spark exciting debates. There are few in the world as experienced in this area as Pen Hadow, who remains the only person in history to have trekked solo from Canada to the North Pole.
In addition to his solo experiences, Pen Hadow can discuss the intense dangers and importance of strong situational leadership from his challenges of leading an award-winning international research programme and arctic mission.
Speaking Topics:
- Goal-setting and setbacks
- Team Performance & Improvement
- Pioneering Mindset & Breakthroughs
- Motivation – Finding It & Keeping It
- Risk vs. Rewards
- Leading an Expedition
- Global Environmental Change & Corporate Sustainability
Pete Cohen
Co-Founder of Mi365 & Owner of Sort Your Life Out Limited
Pete Cohen is one of the UK’s leading corporate performance and motivational business speakers, a published author and an established media personality with more than 20 years of experience in addressing and inspiring business leaders, executives, employees and the general public. Highly regarded by some of the foremost companies in the world including IBM, Pfizer, BAA, Royal Bank of Scotland, Boehringer Ingelheim and Thomas Cook, Pete’s interactive, humorous and engaging style has always gone down a treat with his audiences.
Gifted with an impressive ability to inspire, motivate and galvanise people, Pete truly understands the way the human mind works. Using this exceptional skill, he can maximise potential and unlock talent in any individual. His motivational capabilities have extended to helping people with weight loss, fitness and self-esteem.
Speaking Topics:
- Keeping Your Customers Happy
- Being Exceptional in Business
- Maximising Your Motivation
- Loving Your Work
- Getting The Balance Right
- The Art Of Winning
- Coping With Change
- Being part of a Great Team
Gareth Davis
Former CEO of Imperial Tobacco, Named the 13th Best Performing CEO of All Time by the Harvard Business Review
Officially one of the most successful active CEOs in the world, Gareth Davis spent 38 years at Imperial Tobacco in several roles, including Director of Finance and Executive Director, and helped transform the company into one of the most efficient in the world. An internationally renowned business speaker, Gareth delivers comprehensive talks on issues that include corporate transformation, as well as management and leadership of large companies with an emphasis on business and finance expertise.
One of his recent speaking engagements was for the Merchant Risk Council at the world's largest e-commerce and payment conference in Paris, where 95 per cent of the audience rated him excellent.
Speaking Topics:
- Lessons in Leadership
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- The Art of Success
- Maximising Efficiency In Your Workforce Through Organisation & Motivation
- The Importance Of Consumerism
- Corporate Transformation
- Cultural Integration
Brigadier Nicky Moffat
Highest-Ranked Woman in the British Army & Founder of What Good Leadership Looks Like
Nicky Moffat has 27 years of military experience, during which she became the highest serving female soldier in the British Army. She continues to specialise in leadership, teamwork and workplace culture, essential facets of a successful military and workplace team.
While serving with the military, Nicky was responsible for the professional development of nearly 5,000 soldiers. This experience taught her the skills and qualities needed to thrive in the workplace. At events, Nicky shares her top tips for professional development.
Speaking Topics:
- Armed Forces
- Leadership & Teamwork
- People Development
- Transformational Change
Helen Sharman
First British Astronaut to Travel to Space & First European Woman in Space
When Helen Sharman reached the Mir Space Station, she became the first British astronaut in space. Out of 13,000 applications, Helen showed incredible mental and physical resilience during the selection process, which she credits to her success. In recognition of her contribution to the space travel sector, Hellen was named a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, a member of the Association of Space Explorers and a Patron of the Spacelink Learning Foundation. Such achievements add to her reputation on the speaking circuit.
Helen is regularly invited to attend motivational engagements across the world. She shares her experience of space travel with enamoured audiences and leaves them inspired to pursue their own dreams.
Speaking Topics:
- Life in Space
- Risk Management
- Mental & Physical Resilience
- Leading Under Pressure
Michael Fuller
Britain's First Black Chief Constable & Recipient of the Queen's Policing Medal
Michael Fuller changed the face of British policing when he became Britain's first Black Chief Constable. His appointment no doubt inspired many other young, Black professionals to follow their dreams. Michael's positive influence on the Kent area resulted in a 22% decrease in crime; a testament to his strong leadership skills.
With an emphasis on inclusive leadership, Michael teaches audiences the value of diversity in the workplace. He also discusses his journey to Chief Constable, including the racial prejudice he experienced and how it shaped him as a person.
Speaking Topics:
- Prejudice & Discrimination
- Inclusive Leadership
- Leading a Diverse Workforce
Vladimer Botsvadze
No.1 Global Marketing Thought Leader & Advisory Board Member of the US Artificial Intelligence Institute
Vladimer Botsvadze’s expertise in digital marketing and transformation makes him a leading figure in driving business growth. As an award-winning thought leader, Vladimer's keynote speeches empower leaders to harness the power of technology and social media for strategic advantage.
With over 130,000 followers worldwide, his influence and practical advice inspire leaders to innovate and excel. Vladimer’s sessions are a catalyst for change, making him an essential speaker for leadership development.
Speaking Topics:
- Build Your World-Class Personal Brand
- The Future of Web 3.0 and Metaverse
- The Importance of Digital Transformation and Social Media for Business Growth
- How to Build a Winning Customer-Centric Marketing Strategy
- How Brands Can Win the Battle For Attention on the Web
- The Future of Retail: Staying Ahead of the Pace of Change
- The Power of Storytelling in Marketing and How it Strengthens Your Brand
- 5 Lessons Every Business Can Learn From Amazon
- Drive Your Sales Growth Forward
- How AI Transforms Your Business
- Top 3 Technologies That Will Play a Key Role in 2025
- The Secret of Self-Motivation and How to Build Success From Nothing
- Adapt and Survive in the Age of Disruption
- The Secret to a Successful Start-up
- Market Like The 1%: Game-Changing Tried-And-True Marketing Strategies From Billion-Dollar Businesses
Hire a Leadership Speaker For Your Corporate Event!
If you are interested in hiring one of our top leadership speakers to speak at your next corporate event, function or conference, simply contact The Motivational Speakers Agency by completing our online contact form or calling a booking agent directly on 0207 0787 876. Having good leadership is a critical part of a successful business, stay ahead of the curve and hire a leadership speaker today!
