Governance Speakers

A governance speaker is someone who specializes in communicating ideas, frameworks, and strategies related to organizational governance in a way that educates, engages, and empowers audiences. They are often experts in corporate governance, nonprofit oversight, public policy, or regulatory compliance, and they use their platform to share insights that help others make better decisions within structured systems.

Unlike a consultant who works behind the scenes, a governance speaker steps into the spotlight-whether on a keynote stage, a podcast, or a virtual summit-to break down complex governance topics. Their role is to make governance accessible and actionable. That might mean explaining the implications of new SEC rules to startup founders, or guiding school board members through ethical decision-making frameworks.

Governance speakers can come from a variety of backgrounds: legal, financial, academic, or executive leadership. What unites them is their ability to translate governance principles into real-world applications. For example, someone like Dr. Dambisa Moyo, who speaks on global economic governance, brings both academic rigor and practical insight to her talks.

In short, a governance speaker is a communicator who helps individuals and organizations understand how to operate responsibly, transparently, and effectively within a set of rules or standards. They're not just talking about rules-they're talking about how those rules shape outcomes, trust, and long-term success.

When organizations face uncertainty, regulation shifts, or ethical dilemmas, a governance speaker can be the compass that points the way forward. These speakers bring clarity to what can often feel like a fog of policies, acronyms, and boardroom jargon.

One key reason governance speakers matter is that they help bridge the gap between theory and practice. It's one thing to read about fiduciary duty or ESG compliance in a textbook. It's another to hear a speaker explain how a Fortune 500 company navigated a shareholder revolt or how a nonprofit avoided collapse by restructuring its board.

Governance speakers also serve as catalysts for change. In regions where governance standards are still evolving-like parts of Southeast Asia or Sub-Saharan Africa-these speakers can introduce global best practices that local leaders can adapt. They don't just inform; they inspire action.

And for smaller organizations or startups, governance might not be top of mind-until it becomes a crisis. A governance speaker can help these teams build foundational structures early, avoiding costly mistakes later. Think of someone like Alex Osterwalder, who, while known for business modeling, often touches on governance in innovation ecosystems.

Ultimately, governance speakers are important because they help people make better decisions. Not just legally sound decisions, but ethical, strategic, and sustainable ones. That kind of guidance is invaluable in any sector.

Governance speakers do more than just deliver talks-they educate, influence, and guide audiences through the often complex world of organizational oversight. Here's a breakdown of what governance speakers actually do:

1. Simplify Complex Topics. Governance can involve legal compliance, board dynamics, stakeholder engagement, and more. Speakers break these down into understandable, relatable concepts.

2. Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. Whether it's a 20-minute TED-style talk or a full-day board training, governance speakers adapt their content to fit the format. For example, a speaker might run a session on 'Building Transparent Boards' for a nonprofit leadership summit.

3. Tailor Content to Specific Audiences. A governance speaker addressing a fintech startup will focus on different issues (like data privacy or investor relations) than one speaking to a school board or a multinational corporation.

4. Stay Current on Trends and Regulations. Governance is a moving target. Speakers stay up to date on things like ESG reporting standards, DEI board mandates, or cybersecurity governance, and bring that knowledge to their audiences.

5. Offer Strategic Insight. Many governance speakers also serve as advisors or consultants. Their talks often include case studies, decision-making frameworks, and actionable takeaways that attendees can implement immediately.

6. Foster Accountability and Culture. By emphasizing the 'why' behind governance-not just the 'how'-they help organizations build cultures of integrity, transparency, and long-term thinking.

In essence, governance speakers are educators and change agents. They don't just talk about rules-they talk about responsibility, leadership, and the systems that support sustainable success.

Becoming a governance speaker isn't just about knowing boardroom buzzwords. It's about building credibility, crafting your message, and getting in front of the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Build Deep Expertise in Governance
- Whether it's corporate governance, nonprofit boards, ESG frameworks, or public sector compliance, pick your niche.
- Stay current with trends like stakeholder capitalism, AI ethics in governance, or global regulatory shifts.
- Get certified if relevant: think NACD Directorship Certification, ICSA qualifications, or regional equivalents.

2. Develop Your Signature Talk
- Focus on a unique angle or insight. For example, 'How tech startups can adopt governance early' or 'Diversity in boardrooms: Beyond quotas'.
- Structure your talk with a clear problem-solution arc, real-world examples, and actionable takeaways.
- Record a sample talk or webinar to showcase your delivery style.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile.
- Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you or book you directly.

4. Network with Hosts and Event Planners
- Reach out to conference organizers, podcast hosts, and webinar platforms.
- Use LinkedIn to connect with governance professionals and tag relevant content.
- Join speaker directories and governance associations to increase visibility.

5. Start Small, Then Scale
- Begin with local events, webinars, or industry panels.
- Collect feedback, improve your pitch, and scale up to national or international stages.
- Consider hosting your own virtual summit or partnering with platforms like Talks.co to connect with global audiences.

Governance is a high-trust space. Your credibility and clarity matter more than flashy slides. Focus on delivering value, and the speaking gigs will follow.

To be a governance speaker, you need more than just a title or a few years on a board. It's about combining deep knowledge with communication skills that resonate across industries and cultures. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
Governance is a broad field. You might specialize in corporate governance, nonprofit board structures, ESG compliance, or digital governance. Whatever your focus, you need to:
- Stay updated on laws, frameworks, and best practices.
- Understand both theory and application. For example, how Sarbanes-Oxley impacts board reporting or how GDPR affects data governance.
- Be able to translate complex ideas into accessible insights.

2. Speaking and Facilitation Skills
You're not just sharing knowledge, you're guiding conversations. That means:
- Practicing public speaking regularly.
- Using stories, case studies, and analogies to engage diverse audiences.
- Facilitating Q&A sessions and panel discussions with confidence.

3. A Personal Brand and Platform
Governance isn't a flashy topic, so your credibility and visibility matter. You'll need:
- A speaker page (like those on Talks.co) with your bio, topics, and testimonials.
- A content trail: articles, videos, or podcasts that show your thought leadership.
- A clear message or theme that sets you apart.

4. Connections to Hosts and Events
You'll need to build relationships with people who book speakers:
- Join governance associations and LinkedIn groups.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event hosts.
- Pitch yourself to conferences, summits, and corporate training programs.

Being a governance speaker is about trust, clarity, and relevance. If you can combine those, you're on the right path.

Yes, governance speakers often get paid, but the amount and consistency vary widely depending on several factors. Let's dig into the dynamics:

1. Paid vs. Unpaid Engagements
- Corporate Events and Conferences: These typically offer paid opportunities, especially if you're a recognized expert or keynote speaker.
- Nonprofit and Academic Events: These may offer lower fees or cover expenses only, but they can boost visibility.
- Webinars and Podcasts: Often unpaid, but they help build your brand and lead to paid gigs.

2. Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience and Reputation: A former CEO or board chair will likely command higher fees than a new speaker.
- Audience Size and Event Budget: Speaking at a global governance summit pays more than a local chamber event.
- Topic Relevance: Hot topics like ESG, cybersecurity governance, or DEI in boards tend to attract higher-paying gigs.

3. Payment Models
- Flat Fee: Most common for keynotes and panels.
- Honorarium: A token payment, often used by nonprofits.
- Revenue Share: For workshops or summits where ticket sales are split.

Pros of Paid Speaking:
- Recognition of your expertise.
- Opportunity to scale into consulting or training.

Cons:
- Inconsistent income unless you diversify.
- Competitive space with limited high-paying slots.

In short, governance speakers do get paid, especially when they align their expertise with high-demand topics and audiences. But as with any speaking niche, it takes time to build up to consistent, well-compensated opportunities.

Governance speakers generate income through a mix of direct speaking fees and related services. Here's a breakdown of the most common revenue streams:

1. Keynote and Panel Speaking Fees
- Paid appearances at conferences, summits, and corporate retreats.
- Rates vary based on profile, topic, and audience size (see 'How much do governance speakers make').

2. Workshops and Training Sessions
- In-depth sessions for boards, executives, or governance teams.
- Often booked by corporations, nonprofits, or government agencies.
- Can be delivered in-person or virtually, allowing for global reach.

3. Consulting and Advisory Services
- Many speakers offer governance consulting on the side.
- This includes board evaluations, compliance audits, or ESG strategy.
- Speaking gigs often lead to these higher-ticket engagements.

4. Online Courses and Digital Products
- Pre-recorded governance training, certification prep, or board onboarding modules.
- Can be sold via platforms like Teachable or Kajabi.
- Offers passive income and scalability.

5. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book on governance can boost credibility and open doors.
- Revenue comes from sales, but also from the authority it builds.

6. Hosting or Participating in Virtual Summits
- Platforms like Zoom allow speakers to host or join summits.
- Revenue can come from ticket sales, sponsorships, or upsells.

7. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- Partnering with governance software providers or training platforms.
- Promoting tools like board portals, compliance software, or ESG platforms.

Diversification is key. Most successful governance speakers combine several of these income streams to create a sustainable business model.

Governance speakers can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars per event to six figures annually, depending on their niche, reputation, and business model. Let's break it down:
Typical Fee Ranges per Engagement

Type of Event	Fee Range (USD)
Local nonprofit panel	$0 - $500
Virtual webinar	$250 - $1,000
Corporate training session	$1,000 - $5,000
National conference keynote	$5,000 - $15,000
Global summit or board retreat	$10,000 - $30,000+

Annual Income Estimates
- Beginner (1-2 years): $5,000 - $20,000
- Mid-level (3-5 years): $25,000 - $75,000
- Established Expert: $100,000 - $250,000+
Variables That Affect Income
- Frequency: How many events you book per year.
- Diversification: Offering consulting, courses, or books increases total revenue.
- Niche Demand: Topics like ESG or cybersecurity governance command higher fees.
- Geography: Speakers in the US, UK, or Australia may earn more due to market size.
Example: A governance speaker who does 2 workshops/month at $3,000 each, plus 4 keynotes/year at $10,000, and sells a $500 course to 200 people annually could make over $100,000.
So while not every governance speaker hits six figures, those who build a strong brand and diversify their offerings absolutely can.

If you're looking to book a governance speaker, costs can vary significantly depending on the speaker's profile, the event format, and the topic. Here's a closer look at what to expect:
1. Cost by Event Type

Event Type	Typical Cost Range (USD)
Webinar or Virtual Panel	$250 - $2,000
In-person Workshop	$1,500 - $7,500
Conference Keynote	$5,000 - $20,000+
Board Retreat Facilitation	$7,500 - $25,000+

2. Factors That Influence Cost
- Speaker Reputation: A former regulator or Fortune 500 board chair will cost more than an emerging voice.
- Customization: Tailored content or pre-event consulting increases fees.
- Travel and Logistics: For in-person events, expect to cover travel, lodging, and per diem.
- Event Size and Budget: Larger corporate events tend to have bigger budgets.
3. Budget-Friendly Options
- Emerging Speakers: Great for local events or niche topics.
- Virtual Talks: Lower costs, no travel, and scalable.
- Talks.co Platform: Lets you connect directly with speakers, often at competitive rates.
4. Additional Costs
- Materials: Workbooks, slide decks, or follow-up resources.
- Recording Rights: If you want to reuse the content, expect to pay more.
Booking a governance speaker is an investment in insight and credibility. Choose based on fit, not just fee.

Here's a curated list of some of the most respected governance speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped thinking around corporate responsibility, board dynamics, and ethical leadership:

- Nell Minow: Often called the 'queen of good governance', she's a co-founder of The Corporate Library and a fierce advocate for shareholder rights.

- Mervyn King: South African judge and author of the King Reports on Corporate Governance, which influenced global governance standards.

- Ira Millstein: A pioneer in corporate governance law and advisor to major institutions like the OECD and World Bank.

- Lucy Marcus: Known for her work on boardroom diversity and innovation, she's a regular speaker at Davos and TEDx.

- Robert Monks: Co-founder of Institutional Shareholder Services and a long-time advocate for responsible corporate behavior.

- Anne Simpson: Former head of sustainability at CalPERS, she's been instrumental in pushing ESG into the governance mainstream.

- Sir Adrian Cadbury: Chaired the UK's Committee on the Financial Aspects of Corporate Governance, producing the influential Cadbury Report.

- Mary Schapiro: Former SEC Chair, known for her leadership during the 2008 financial crisis and her push for transparency.

- David Beatty: A seasoned board director and governance educator at the Rotman School of Management.

- Holly Gregory: A leading governance lawyer and speaker, frequently advising boards on best practices and risk oversight.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but also shaped governance frameworks worldwide.

Looking for top-tier governance speakers today? These global voices are leading conversations on board effectiveness, ESG, and ethical leadership:

- Lucy Marcus (UK): A global governance expert, she speaks on innovation in boardrooms and is a regular at World Economic Forum events.

- Helle Bank Jorgensen (Canada/Denmark): CEO of Competent Boards, she's a go-to speaker on ESG, sustainability, and board accountability.

- Dambisa Moyo (Zambia/UK/US): Economist and board member at Chevron and 3M, she speaks on global governance, risk, and economic policy.

- Andreas Barckow (Germany): Chair of the International Accounting Standards Board, often speaks on governance in financial reporting.

- Anne Simpson (USA): A global ESG voice, she's shaping sustainable governance practices across institutional investing.

- Mervyn King (South Africa): Still active in governance circles, he's a frequent keynote on integrated reporting and stakeholder capitalism.

- Nadia Younes (Egypt/UN): Though no longer living, her legacy in international governance and diplomacy still influences speakers today.

- Holly Gregory (USA): A top corporate governance lawyer, she's in demand for her insights on board oversight and legal risk.

- Sacha Sadan (UK): Director of ESG at the FCA, he speaks on regulatory governance and sustainable finance.

- Deborah Rosati (Canada): Founder of Women Get On Board, she champions board diversity and governance education.

These speakers bring a mix of legal, financial, and ethical perspectives to the table, making them highly sought-after across industries and continents.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions about governance speakers. These myths can hold back both aspiring speakers and the organizations that need them.

1. Governance speakers are only relevant to government or public policy events.
This one's easy to believe, but it's way off. Governance isn't just about politics or public institutions. It's about how decisions are made, who's accountable, and how systems are structured. That's why governance speakers are in demand across industries-from fintech to healthcare to nonprofit boards. For example, corporate governance expert Nell Minow regularly speaks at investor conferences and private equity forums, not just government panels.

2. They're all lawyers or academics.
Sure, some governance speakers come from legal or academic backgrounds, but many are business leaders, technologists, or even startup founders. Think of someone like Ginni Rometty, former CEO of IBM. She's spoken extensively on governance in AI and digital transformation, drawing from her corporate leadership, not a legal degree.

3. Governance talks are boring or overly technical.
If you've ever sat through a dry PowerPoint on board structures, you might think this is true. But the best governance speakers know how to bring the topic to life. They use real-world examples, storytelling, and even humor. Look at how Harvard's Amy Edmondson discusses psychological safety and governance-she makes it engaging, even for non-experts.

4. You need to be a senior executive to speak on governance.
Not at all. While experience helps, many governance speakers build authority through research, thought leadership, or niche expertise. A cybersecurity consultant who understands data governance can be just as impactful on stage as a Fortune 500 board member.

5. Governance speakers only talk about compliance.
Compliance is just one piece of the puzzle. Today's governance speakers tackle ESG (environmental, social, governance), stakeholder capitalism, digital ethics, and more. They're shaping conversations about the future of leadership-not just ticking boxes.

When you think about successful governance speakers, you might picture someone in a suit, quoting bylaws. But the real standouts? They're storytellers, strategists, and change agents. Let's look at a few who've made waves.

In Australia, Elizabeth Proust has become a go-to speaker on corporate governance. With board roles across the public and private sectors, she brings a unique perspective on balancing shareholder interests with long-term strategy. At a recent summit, she shared how a misaligned board nearly derailed a major infrastructure project-then walked the audience through how governance reform turned it around. Her talk wasn't just informative, it was gripping.

Then there's Dambisa Moyo, a global economist who's spoken at Davos and TED. Her governance talks focus on the intersection of economics and boardroom decision-making. What sets her apart is her ability to connect macro trends-like deglobalization or demographic shifts-to practical governance challenges. She once described how a board's failure to understand geopolitical risk led to a failed expansion in Africa. That kind of insight sticks.

In the tech world, Alex Stamos, former Chief Security Officer at Facebook, has become a key voice on digital governance. After leaving Facebook, he began speaking on cybersecurity governance and ethical tech. His talks blend technical know-how with governance frameworks, making him a favorite at both tech and policy conferences.

And let's not forget grassroots voices. In Kenya, activist and speaker Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg has spoken on governance in philanthropy and gender equity. Her sessions at regional forums challenge traditional governance models and advocate for inclusive leadership. She doesn't just talk theory-she shares lived realities from communities often left out of boardroom decisions.

What unites these speakers isn't their resumes. It's their ability to translate complex governance issues into compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences. Whether they're on a TED stage or a local panel, they make governance feel urgent, human, and actionable.

Governance speakers are stepping into a new era. The topics, formats, and expectations are shifting-and fast. If you're planning to speak on governance or book someone who does, here's what's on the horizon.

First, audiences are demanding more than theory. They want actionable insights tied to real-world challenges. That means governance speakers need to move beyond frameworks and dive into lived examples-especially in areas like ESG, data ethics, and stakeholder capitalism.

Second, the rise of hybrid and virtual events is changing how governance content is delivered. Speakers who can adapt their message for digital formats-shorter talks, interactive Q&A, visual storytelling-will stand out. Think of how speakers like Richard Edelman now use data-rich slides and real-time polling to keep virtual audiences engaged.

Third, there's growing interest in governance from unexpected sectors. Startups are asking about governance earlier. Creators and influencers are forming advisory boards. Even DAOs (decentralized autonomous organizations) are exploring governance models. This opens the door for speakers who can bridge traditional governance with emerging models.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Governance in AI and automation: As tools like ChatGPT and autonomous systems scale, governance frameworks for ethical use are top of mind.
- Cross-cultural governance: Global companies need speakers who understand governance norms across regions-from GDPR in Europe to data sovereignty in Asia.
- Youth and next-gen leadership: Younger leaders are stepping into board roles earlier. Governance speakers who can connect with this demographic will be in demand.
- Crisis governance: From pandemics to climate disasters, governance during uncertainty is a hot topic. Speakers with experience in resilience planning are gaining traction.

Bottom line: governance speakers who stay agile, tech-aware, and globally informed will lead the next wave of conversations. The stage is evolving-so should the message.

If you're aiming to become a governance speaker, you don't need to start from scratch. There's a growing toolkit of platforms, communities, and learning resources to help you build authority, land gigs, and sharpen your message. Here's a curated list to get you moving.

1. Talks.co
A smart way to get matched with podcast hosts looking for expert guests. Great for building your speaking resume and refining your message in a low-pressure setting.

2. BoardSource
Offers training, research, and certification programs focused on nonprofit governance. Their webinars and publications are gold for content ideas and credibility.

3. Harvard Business Review
Not just for reading. Pitch your governance insights as op-eds or case studies. Getting published here boosts your authority and can lead to speaking invites.

4. SpeakerHub
A platform to list your speaker profile, browse events, and connect with event organizers. Use it to showcase your niche in governance-whether it's ESG, board dynamics, or digital ethics.

5. LinkedIn Learning
Courses on public speaking, governance, and leadership. Combine these to build both your subject matter expertise and delivery skills.

6. The Governance Institute
Especially useful if you're targeting healthcare or hospital boards. Their reports and conferences are packed with speaker opportunities.

7. TEDx Events
Apply to speak at a local TEDx. Governance topics like transparency, ethical leadership, or digital trust are highly relevant and can go viral if delivered well.

8. Toastmasters International
Old-school but still effective. Perfect for refining your delivery, especially if you're new to speaking or want to test governance topics in front of a live audience.

Use these tools not just to learn, but to connect. The governance speaker space is niche-but growing. The more you show up in the right places, the faster you'll build momentum.