The Leading Speakers Bureau

Business Transformer, Speaker & Author

Ralph Ardill, Bsc(Hons), Msc, is one of the world’s leading authorities on brand transformation and has consulted to some of the world’s leading brands, including Carlsberg, Ford, Ericsson, Coca-Cola, Hiscox, Sky and CBRE. He is an accomplished writer, speaker and consultant and in 1995 wrote one of the seminal books on Experiential Branding – simply entitled ‘Experience’ and was author of a master-class on Experience Design for the UK Design Council.

“Ralph gave a ground-breaking speech at our 3 Conference in Zurich. I have yet to met a more inspiring, captivating and modest speaker. Without doubt Ralph is one of the world’s leading authorities on brand experience.“
Dr. Urs Seiler, Smartville

[expand title=”In detail”] Following spells as a Business Analyst for Laura Ashley, a Brand Manager for CBS Records and devising global Corporate Identity programmes for Enterprise IG Ralph then spent over a decade as Marketing and Strategic Planning Director of Imagination where he was the inspiration and driving force behind Imagination’s Brand Experience offer and where he personally led the development of the world-class Guinness Storehouse brand centre in Dublin. Since 2006 Ralph has been working as an independent consultant harnessing everything he’s learned from what he calls a “25 year apprenticeship” [/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]With his unconventional wisdom, Ralph skilfully shows audiences how to successfully plan, create and subsequently offer customers a complete “brand experience”. Ralph’s aim is to help clients deliver accelerated and coherent brand-led, design-inspired transformation and growth across the total experience – inside and out – of their businesses.[/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Ralph is a passionate speaker and his thought-provoking presentations are delivered in a highly engaging, pragmatic and often provocative style that de-bunks the ‘myths’ and cuts-to-the-chase of how to make real change and collaboration happen in business.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

UN Peace Keeper Hostage who escaped from Sierra Leone Rebels

Major Phil Ashby is a true hero! He is renowned for his daring and dramatic escape, leading a group of hostages to freedom from rebel forces in war torn Sierra Leone. Although perhaps the most difficult thing he has had to deal with is the virus he picked up whilst in Sierra Leone which left him paralysed from the waist downwards. In 2005 he made his television debut in BBC’s SAS-Survival Secrets and won the punishing North Pole Race in record time. Most recently, in 2006 he presented Simply Arctic, also for the BBC.

“A genuine hero”

[expand title=”In detail”] He joined the Royal Marines at the age of 17 as a Second Lieutenant, the youngest commissioned officer in HM Forces. Having completed his Arctic Warfare training, and earned his Green Beret, he was sponsored by the Marines to attend Pembroke College, Cambridge. On leaving the university, he served in Alaska, Brunei, Central America, Cyprus, Hong Kong, Northern Ireland, and Norway, and then undertook a year of specialist training as a Royal Marines Mountain Leader. In 1999, he was promoted to Major, the youngest person to hold that rank in the whole of the armed forces, and was posted to Sierra Leone. He was awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for his dramatic escape from rebel forces there. [/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Phil can really reach, move and entertain his audiences. He draws on his astonishing experiences to demonstrate that through true determination and sheer will power you can achieve almost anything. He is a natural storyteller who can adapt to suit any occasion. [/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]A powerful and charismatic speaker Phil is in great demand from audiences eager to learn from his truly inspirational story.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

Legendary Danish Former International & Manchester United Goalkeeper

Peter Schmeichel, MBE is probably best remembered for his most successful years at English club Manchester United, whom he captained to the 1999 UEFA Champions League to complete The Treble. He was a key member of the Denmark national football team that won Euro 92. During his career, Schmeichel scored 11 goals, including one for the Danish national team, a great feat for a keeper.

Voted the “World’s Best Goalkeeper” in 1992 and 1993

[expand title=”In detail”] Peter Schmeichel is the most capped player for the Denmark national team, with 129 games between 1987 and 2001. Apart from Euro 92, he played for his country at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and three additional European Championship tournaments, captaining the national team in 30 matches. In 2007 he became the host in a new quiz, on TV3 named 1 mod 100. In 2008, he became the host of the European version of Dirty Jobs on the Discovery Channel. He is also a presenter for TV3 Denmark’s coverage of UEFA Champions League football. He famously competed in Strictly Come Dancing 2006.
[/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Famous for his intimidating physique (he is 1.93 m = 6 ft 4 in. tall), Peter Schmeichel is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of football. An instantly recognisable character throughout the world, he still works occasionally as a pundit for the BBC. In his fascinating talks, which range from the start of his professional career at Brondby IF to how he fulfilled his childhood dream by becoming Manchester United’s goalkeeper, he elaborates on his greatest achievements throughout his football career.[/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Peter Schmeichel’s presence adds prestige to any event. Never afraid to mince his words, he has a style and charm that is truly unique.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

Former World No. 1 Professional Tennis Player

Monica Seles is the former number 1 professional tennis player who in 2008, announced her retirement from professional tennis. Over her extraordinary career, she earned nine Grand Slam titles and won 53 singles and six doubles tournaments. Monica is also a Goodwill Ambassador and Spokesperson for the IIMSAM’s Global Sports for Peace and Development Programme Initiative to counter malnutrition and for the achievement of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals.

“A world class tennis player”

[expand title=”In detail”] Monica began dominating women’s tennis at the age of 17 when she became the youngest player in women’s tennis history to achieve the No. 1 ranking. With an impressive nine Grand Slam victories to her credit, including two U.S. Opens, she was still the No. 1 ranked player when she was stabbed in 1993 during a match change over. After a nearly 3-year absence from the game and overcoming many personal and professional pitfalls, Monica climbed back to the top of her game.[/expand]

[expand title=”What she offers you”]Monica shares her story and reveals how she regained balance, strength and happiness in her life. Monica explores her remarkable journey of brilliant tennis, fame, tragedy, loss and self-discovery. After years of having every aspect of her training, diet and life dictated and scrutinised by others, Monica took control, deciding what she wanted from life and she set out to obtain it.[/expand]

[expand title=”How she presents”]An affable and likeable personality, Monica is in great demand as a speaker around the globe by audiences eager to hear her inspirational message.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

Polar Explorer, Nutritionist, Expert on Human Health under Extreme Conditions & Motivational Speaker

Dr. Mike Stroud OBE became widely known when he partnered Sir Ranulph Fiennes on polar expeditions. In 2003 they both completed seven marathons on seven continents in seven days in the Land Rover 7x7x7 Challenge for the British Heart Foundation. He is the Senior Lecturer in Medicine and Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Southampton University.

“Leading authority on survival, nutrition & endurance”

[expand title=”In detail”] Mike qualified as a doctor in London in 1979 and then spent ten years in a variety of hospital posts interspersed with far reaching expeditions and travel. He was the doctor on the In the footsteps of Scott Antarctic expedition in 1984-1986. He joined Ranulph Fiennes in 1986 to attempt to journey on foot to the North Pole unsupported. In 1992/3 they made the first unsupported crossing of the Antarctic continent. He has also featured in the BBC program Through the Keyhole hosted by Sir David Frost. He featured in all three BBC series of SAS – Are You Tough Enough?, set in Scotland, Borneo and the Namib Desert and recently presented the 8 part BBC series The Challenge. He has worked at the RAF Institute of Aviation Medicine, the Army Personnel Research Establishment and later became the Chief Scientist at the UK Centre for Human Sciences.[/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Awarded the OBE in 1993, Mike Stroud’s account of his ventures is outstanding, appearing frequently on radio and television as a leading authority on matters of human health under extreme conditions. As well as his own feats of endurance, Mike is also well-known for his TV commentaries on others putting themselves in stressful situations. [/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Mike Stroud vividly takes his audiences through the psychological hardship to the enduring physical pain, as if you had been a part of the expedition![/expand]

Continue Reading »

Former Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, European Commission

Michel Barnier was, until 2014, the European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services and is also a Vice President of the European People’s Party. As European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, he handled many important issues, such as the reform of the financial sector (40 pieces of legislation between 2010 and 2014), the banking union (starting with the Single Supervisory Mechanism) and the digital single market. In early 2015 he was appointed as Special Adviser on European Defence and Security Policy.

“One of the leading figures in European Politics”

[expand title=”In detail”] Mr. Barnier served as European Commissioner in the Prodi (1999-2004) and Barroso II (2010-2014) Commissions. In 2001 he chaired the Working Group on European Defence as a member of the Praesidium of the Convention on the Future of Europe. He was Minister of Foreign Affairs in the French Government (2004-2005). In 2006 Mr. Barnier, acting as Special Advisor to then Commission President José Manuel Barroso, he presented a report to the European Council proposing the creation of European civil protection force. In the Barroso II Commission, he was one of those leading the ‘Defence’ Task Force and oversaw the European Commission’s Communication on European defence markets.[/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]A world-wide respected politician, Michel Barnier brings a wealth of useful information to decision makers from all businesses wishing to expand their operations in Europe. Drawing upon his experiences as European Commissioner, he addresses vital issues particularly on Europe and International Relations.[/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]His excellent leadership qualities and outstanding knowledge as one of Europe’s foremost politicians make Michel Barnier a highly sought after commentator at the most prestigious conferences around the world.
[/expand]

Continue Reading »

International Speaker and author of “How the best get better”

Michael Heppell is a world class business speaker, renowned personal development trainer and international best-selling author. He has taken his message of achieving brilliance as your benchmark across the world to hundreds of thousands of people, from individuals to multi-national corporations. His advocates include major corporations, such as: Microsoft, HSBC, Vauxhall, Virgin, among others.

“One of the UK’s leading experts on Customer Service”

[expand title=”In detail”] Michael’s path in to personal development started at the age of 16 when he became involved in youth work as a volunteer. In 1999 he established his own company; Michael Heppell Ltd. Michael has been and is set on a course of personal development study, which has seen him dealing with national and international world leaders in the field. It has taken him from The World Thinking Conference in Singapore to Australia, always researching the latest techniques and ideas. In 2003 Michael’s first book, ‘How to Be Brilliant’ was published and is becoming internationally acclaimed for making the route to Brilliance accessible for all.[/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Michael uses his vast insights to help companies develop a competitive advantage by focusing attention on the needs of their customers and their people. His many years of practical experience working with those who have their desire to set brilliance as their benchmark, who want to take massive action and are ready to make a change, make his presentations truly unique. [/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Michael’s inspirational and motivational presentations are delivered in a very energetic way, which literally has the audience on the edge of their seats. He creates a bespoke presentation depending on the needs of any organisation.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

Cricketing Legend, Media Personality and Pundit

Matthew Hoggard MBE is one of the most successful international cricketers to have played for England. In 2013, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing a hugely successful 17-year career to an end. Matthew is now a rising star in the media, featuring across the national press and on a range of popular TV programmes. He is increasingly sought-after for his expertise and humour on cricketing coverage across a variety of networks including the BBC, Sky Sports and BT Sport.

“He became the fast bowling stalwart of one of the most successful England Cricket Teams of all times”

[expand title=”In detail”] Matthew played for and captained, Leicestershire County Cricket Club where, after leaving his home county of Yorkshire at the end of the 2009 season. He took his 700th first-class wicket during the 2010 campaign and continues to be an asset on the field as an opening bowler, and off the field as a mentor to the teams’ younger professionals. He was a vital member of the inspirational England side that won the epic 2005 Ashes series and has been a model of consistency throughout his test and ODI career, representing his country on 93 occasions. [/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]One of the world’s greatest bowlers, Matthew’s ultimate determination to succeed at the highest level has afforded him many fans in the cricketing world. With a unique take on life, the Yorkshire born cricketer is the ideal choice for any event and is a huge draw for audiences of all ages. Playing a pivotal role in one of the most successful periods in English cricket, Matthew has a remarkable story to tell and is a great asset to the after dinner circuit. [/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Delivering his speeches with great enthusiasm, he is sure to make any event a resounding success, entertaining with tales from over a decade competing against some of the greatest cricketers in history.[/expand]

Continue Reading »

Communications Consultant, Presentation Coach & Keynote Speaker

Mark Jeffries is a former stockbroker who has become a much sought-after executive coach, keynote speaker and leading event moderator and MC across USA, Canada and Europe. He is a consultant to some of the world’s largest corporations, organizations and professional service firms. As a leader in the field of Strategic Communication and Soft Skills, Mark’s advice is widely sought in the corporate world as well as on TV and Radio. He is a regular contributor on NBC’s Today Show, CNBC, BBC News, Sky News and Fox Business.

“Communication excellence
leads to increased success, profits and connections”

[expand title=”In detail”] A former economist, Mark regularly appears as an image and communications expert on network TV news, finance and lifestyle programmes. Leading figures in business and politics turn to Mark to ensure that their messages are truly heard and that perceptions are positively controlled. Mark is retained by senior political figures from Congressmen in Washington to MPs in London as a key adviser on Presentation and Soft Skills. His clients include IBM, Ernst & Young, SAS, HP, Zurich Insurance, Gartner, Microsoft, Royal Bank of Canada, Deltek & Bank of America amongst others.[/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the events he speaks at and facilitates. He offers a valuable tool box of innovative communication ideas designed to give audiences many new approaches to growing relationships with their clients and importantly the bottom line. Mark also helps focus the minds of people and gets them thinking more about their interactions with others both internally and externally. In his strategic executive coaching sessions, Mark specialises in perfecting the content, message and delivery of keynote speeches, major addresses and media appearances. [/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Sharp and incisive, Mark has an impressive talent for truly capturing, inspiring, challenging and entertaining audiences. You can guarantee a session that will feel absolutely dedicated to your people, targets and objectives. [/expand]

Continue Reading »

Som Mittal is the former Chairman and President of NASSCOM, the premier trade body for the IT-BPM Industry in India. He held the position of President, NASSCOM from 2008-13. Under his leadership, the industry crossed the USD 100 billion milestone and significantly expanded its value offerings.Som has worked and influenced governments of various countries in creating synergies and shaping their policies. He engaged with US policymakers convincing them of the competitive edge that Indian IT companies bring to their economy.

“An accomplished expert on technology trends and global business”

[expand title=”In detail”] Having completed his graduation and post-graduation from India’s most prestigious institutes IIT Kanpur and IIM, Ahmedabad, Som held senior corporate leadership roles for over three decades in the IT industry at companies such as Wipro, Digital, Compaq and HP. He has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding dedication to the growth of the global ICT Industry by the World Information Technology and Services Alliance. He is also a Distinguished Alumni from IIT Kanpur. He was also awarded Business Leader of the Year by Rotary International and has been called “unarguably successful” by The Financial Express for his term leading NASSCOM. [/expand]

[expand title=”What he offers you”]Som Mittal advises companies, CEOs, trade bodies and senior business leaders on business, management, government and global policies. He motivates and mentors entrepreneurs to help succeed in growing and managing business ventures. In his presentations, he shares experiences and learnings gained with the next generation executives/entrepreneurs.[/expand]

[expand title=”How he presents”]Preparing each presentation to ideally match the brief, Som motivates and inspires audiences with his tailored high-content speeches. [/expand]

Continue Reading »