Founder of The Essentialism Academy, 2x NYT Bestselling Author of ‘Essentialism’ & ‘Effortless’, Podcast Host of The Greg McKeown Podcast & Global Thought Leader

Greg McKeown is a leading authority on prioritisation, interpersonal communication and high performance, best known as the two-time New York Times bestselling author of Essentialism and Effortless. As the founder of The Essentialism Academy, Greg has helped redefine how organisations approach productivity by focusing on what truly matters. His work challenges the conventional pursuit of more, instead equipping leaders with the clarity and discipline required to achieve meaningful progress. A trusted advisor to global organisations, Greg is widely regarded as a transformative keynote speaker who drives lasting behavioural change.

Greg’s career began with a strong academic foundation in organisational psychology, earning his MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. He went on to work as a Leadership Consultant at Heidrick and Struggles, advising senior executives across competitive industries. He later joined The Wiseman Group as a partner, contributing to influential leadership research. Recognised globally, Greg was selected as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. Alongside further study at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, he founded The Essentialism Academy. He has also served as a Board Member for Resolve and as a mentor for 2 Seeds, supporting international development initiatives, while continuing his doctoral research at the University of Cambridge.

Greg’s publications have achieved significant global reach, with Essentialism and Effortless selling over three million copies and translated into more than 45 languages. His ideas have been featured in major outlets including The New Yorker, Time Magazine and Harvard Business Review, reflecting the widespread influence of his thinking. In addition to his books, Greg hosts The Greg McKeown Podcast, where he interviews prominent figures from business, technology and culture, extending his impact across multiple platforms.

A highly experienced speaker, Greg has addressed audiences for organisations such as Apple, Google and Nike. His work centres on helping individuals and teams eliminate unnecessary complexity, make better decisions and sustain high levels of performance. Through a combination of research, storytelling and practical frameworks, Greg continues to influence how modern organisations operate and succeed.

Why Hire Greg McKeown?

Greg is hired for his ability to cut through complexity and deliver clear, actionable insights that resonate with senior leaders and teams alike. His keynote talks, including appearances at globally recognised platforms such as TED and SXSW, are known for combining intellectual rigour with engaging delivery. Greg equips audiences with practical tools to improve focus, decision-making and execution in demanding environments. His content is immediately applicable, enabling organisations to streamline priorities, enhance collaboration and achieve sustainable growth while maintaining clarity in an increasingly complex business landscape.