Former CEO of DC Thomson, Former MD of Mirror Group Newspapers, Motivational Keynote Speaker & After-Dinner Speaker

Ellis Watson stepped down as CEO of DC Thomson, the Scottish media group in 2020 after 10 years with them. He had previously headed Simon Cowell’s joint venture with Sony, and turned around the legendary Greyhound Bus business.

Ellis’ first break came as Marketing Director at The Sun, reporting directly to Rupert Murdoch. He then became CEO of Celador International, licensing Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? to 100 countries. Also he oversaw 130 branded consumer products before being lured back to Fleet Street as MD of Mirror Group Newspapers.

On the Buses:
After a spell with Menzies, Ellis next accepted an invitation to join the board of FirstGroup, the world’s biggest privately owned public transport operator. They parachuted him in to Ohio to address the ailing fortunes at Greyhound. Founded in 1914, it was a $3bn concern with 3,400 bus stations, 17,000 buses and also 27,000 employees; but it was broken and losing share to internal airlines. Within 14 months Ellis had re-equipped the fleet, rejuvenated the brand and reinvented the culture (starting with mystery shoppers and training camps). Greyhound is now building a reputation for safety, reliability, comfort and above all service.

DC Thomson:
In his role at DC Thomson, Ellis Thomson steered a traditional firm that had been family run for six generations into a future-proofed organisation. He shed a third of the staff, increased the turnover at the papers and also moved The Beano, part of the fabric of the company, from print to digital.

In presentations Ellis argues that a significant external shock like a recession can be a springboard for positive change. He also shows how to inspire passion when under pressure, and how to progress from mission statements to true company culture embracing quality, integrity and diversity.
Ellis Watson is known as one of the most inspiring and intelligent keynote speakers in Britain. He’s also hugely entertaining. After dinner he might reveal how he ran at his naked reflection in the mirror – mistaking himself for an intruder.

Speech Titles:
Spreading the Passion
Culture Change

Why Hire Ellis Watson?