Matthew Syed stands as a paradigm in the realm of high performance and mindset development, as the Founder of Matthew Syed Consulting. With a diverse career spanning from elite sports to journalism to organisational coaching, Matthew's journey reflects his unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and actualising potential. In an ever-evolving world that demands adaptability, resilience and innovative thinking, Matthew Syed emerges as a beacon. His multifaceted journey from the ping pong table to the global stage makes him not just a motivational speaker, but a living embodiment of transformation and high performance. For any organisation or individual striving to foster a culture of continuous improvement, Matthew's insights are invaluable.
His early years as England's top-ranked table tennis player are a testament to his understanding of high performance from a visceral perspective. Achieving feats like representing Team GB at the Olympic Games and clinching gold at the Commonwealth Games, Matthew’s prowess in table tennis is undeniable. But even more compelling is his ability to transition from a sportsperson to a journalist and finally to a high-performance coach. His insights as a Columnist and Feature Writer for prominent publications like The Times and awards such as Sports Journalist of the Year elucidate his flair for articulating complex concepts into digestible narratives.
His innovative approach to high-performance coaching underscores the intertwined relationship between mindset and success. The books he authored, like "Rebel Ideas" and "Black Box Thinking", provide powerful insights into the underpinnings of high performance and growth mindset. And yet, he has an equally remarkable ability to simplify and communicate complex subjects to younger audiences, as seen in his children’s book titles. But Matthew's contributions don't stop at coaching and writing. His co-founding of Greenhouse Sports, his ambassadorship at PiXL Educational Foundation, and his position in the FA’s High-Performance Committee signify his dedication to holistic development and societal upliftment.
As a keynote speaker, Matthew brings to the table a unique blend of first-hand experiences and researched insights. His knack for catalysing change is evidenced by the roster of top-tier organisations that seek his expertise. The recognition from HR Magazine as one of HR's Top 30 Most Influential Thinkers is just a glimpse of his impact in shaping organisational cultures towards continuous improvement. His TEDx Talk Why You Should Have Your Own Black Box and appearance on Steven Bartlett’s "The Diary of a CEO" further extend his influence, showcasing his aptitude to inspire a wide range of audiences.