
Keynote speaker
James KerrExpert in High-Performance Culture and Strategic Leadership
- Based in
- New Zealand
- Fee tier
- On requestFee on request indicative · subject to negotiation
About James Kerr
James Kerr is a renowned leadership and strategy consultant celebrated for his deep exploration of the New Zealand All Blacks. For his global best-seller, Legacy, he was granted internal access to the team to witness their operations first-hand. He examined how they increased their win rate from 75% to 86% in just five years, transforming into a dominant world power in rugby. His research highlights how a small nation created an elite culture based on character-led recruitment, shared heritage, and the humility of senior players who take responsibility for even the smallest team tasks.
Beyond the world of international sport, James has acted as a trusted advisor to major global organisations including Shell, Boeing, and HSBC. He specialises in guiding leaders through complex change and developing the cohesive environments required for elite performance. His work emphasises that lasting success is achieved by focusing on a central narrative and choosing to evolve even while at the peak of one's profession.
James is frequently booked for his ability to translate the secrets of the world’s most successful sporting franchise into practical strategies for the boardroom. Audiences value his expertise on building resilient, high-capability teams that thrive under pressure and maintain a competitive advantage in evolving markets.
On stage, James Kerr is best known for talks on Peak Performance. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room.
James Kerr is regularly booked for Business Speaker, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A.
To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how James Kerr would approach your audience.
Speaking topics
Frequently asked questions
- How do I book James Kerr?
- Send a booking enquiry using the form on this page. We'll confirm James's availability and reply with fees and next steps.
- How much does James Kerr cost to book?
- James Kerr's fee is shared on enquiry. Fees are indicative and subject to negotiation depending on event date, location, format and audience size — we help negotiate the final fee. Send an enquiry and we'll come back with a firm quote.
- What topics does James Kerr speak on?
- James speaks on Peak Performance.
- Where is James Kerr based?
- James is based in New Zealand and travels internationally for speaking engagements.
Before you book
Considering James Kerr? Read these first.
Formats
Keynote, panel moderator or awards host?
Three roles, three completely different skill sets. Pick the wrong one and even the best speaker will look ordinary.
Read guide →On the day
The run-of-show that keeps speakers happy
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Read guide →Pitfalls
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