A former Irish Prime Minister (Taoiseach), who helped transform the Irish economy into the “Celtic Tiger”, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
John Bruton is a former Irish prime minister (Taoiseach), who helped transform the Irish economy into the “Celtic Tiger”, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world in 1997.
In the year before he took office (1993), the Irish economy grew by 2.7%. During his time as Taoiseach (1994-1997), the Irish economy grew at an annual average rate of 8.7%, peaking at 11.1% in 1997.
John Bruton was also deeply involved in the Northern Irish Peace Process leading to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, under whose terms a conflict of allegiances dating back to the seventeenth century was resolved.
While Prime Minister, Ambassador Bruton presided over a successful Irish EU Presidency in 1996 and helped finalise the Stability and Growth Pact, which governs the management of the single European currency, the euro.
Mr Bruton addressed a joint session of the US Congress on September 11, 1996, as only the 30th head of state or government of an EU country to do so since 1945. He was probably the only president in office of the European Council to have addressed a joint session of Congress. Further, he represented the EU at summit meetings with the president of the United States and with the prime ministers of Canada, Japan, China, and Korea.
Before being appointed Ambassador to the United States, John Bruton served as a leading member of the Convention that draughted the proposed European Constitution, which was signed in Rome on October 29, 2004. He strongly supported proposals to give the general public a more direct say in the choice of EU leadership by allowing the public of the 27 EU member states directly to elect the president of the European Commission.
From 1999 until his appointment as ambassador, he was one of ten vice presidents of the European People’s Party, which brings together the leadership of 74 European political parties, many of whom are in government in their countries.
Since 2001 he has…
Sacha Dekker, an esteemed learning and talent development executive, has a rich history of fostering inclusive, world-class learning experiences. With a journey marked by resilience and global expertise, Sacha is a beacon of inspiration in leadership and overcoming adversity.
Dr Elke Geraerts blends academic depth with practical insights on mental resilience. A psychologist, bestselling author, and corporate speaker, she helps organisations and teams thrive in uncertain times. Her talks translate neuroscience into daily action, offering a powerful mix of motivation, science, and strategy.
Andrew Marr is one of Britain’s most respected political journalists and broadcasters. Renowned for his wit, authority and insight, he delivers compelling talks on politics, leadership, communication, and the forces shaping our world today.
Alan O’Neill, MBA, is an international change management expert, consultant and keynote speaker who helps organisations increase sales and build a high performance culture by embedding a customer centric culture and overcoming resistance to change with practical, real-world ideas. Known for his down to earth style, commercial focus and no nonsense expertise, he delivers insights audiences can apply immediately.
Anne Lise Kjaer is a world-renowned futurist and founder of Kjaer Global. With a focus on trends, innovation and sustainable strategy, she helps organisations envision the future and transform through her 4P framework, balancing people, planet, purpose and profit for long-term success.
Andrew Keen is an author, entrepreneur and one of the world’s most influential critics of the digital age. He challenges audiences with thought-provoking insights on technology, social media, privacy and the future of business in a hyper-connected world
A branding and customer experience expert, keynote speaker, and angel investor.
Adjiedj Bakas is a globally recognised trendwatcher, bestselling author and visionary speaker. With humour, clarity and foresight, he helps leaders and organisations anticipate change, inspiring them to navigate disruption and create successful, sustainable futures.
Are you having difficulty in finding the right speaker?
Cathy O’Dowd is a South African mountaineer, author, and speaker, best known as the first woman to summit Mount Everest from both the north and south sides. She shares lessons from expeditions like Everest and the Mazeno Ridge on Nanga Parbat, focusing on leadership, teamwork, resilience, and decision-making under pressure.
