Former Royal Marines Officer, Marine Biologist, Explorer, BBC & Channel 5 Television Presenter, Expedition Leader & Author
Monty Halls is a former Royal Marines Officer, marine biologist, explorer, television presenter, author and expedition leader who has become one of Britain’s most respected voices on leadership, resilience and adventure. Widely recognised for the BBC’s acclaimed ‘Great Escape’ series and his extensive exploration work around the globe, Monty first rose to prominence in 2002 when he led a multinational team of scientists and adventurers on an expedition to the submerged ruins of Mahabalipuram in Southeast India. The discovery of six underwater temples attracted international attention and established him as a leading figure in modern British exploration. Today, he is celebrated for combining scientific expertise, military experience and captivating storytelling to inspire audiences worldwide.
Educated at Bedstone College, where he served as Head Boy, Monty began his professional career as a commissioned officer in the Royal Marines. During his military service, he worked with the British Military Assistance and Training Team in South Africa, helping to integrate former ANC guerrillas into the South African Army during a pivotal period in the country’s history. After leaving the Marines, Monty pursued his passion for the natural world by studying Marine Biology at the University of Plymouth, graduating with First Class Honours in 1999. During his studies, he became involved in marine conservation projects and underwater filming expeditions, experiences that helped shape his future career as both an explorer and broadcaster.
Over the following decades, Monty built an impressive portfolio spanning exploration, broadcasting, conservation and leadership development. He led expeditions across Africa, Central America and Asia, worked with organisations including Coral Cay Conservation, and received the prestigious Bish Medal from the Scientific Exploration Society for his contribution to exploration. His television career includes presenting and producing programmes such as ‘Great Ocean Adventures’, ‘Perfect Weapon’, ‘Great Barrier Reef’, ‘WWII’s Great Escapes’, ‘Lost Worlds’ and ‘My Family and the Galapagos’. In 2016, he founded Seadog TV & Film Productions and launched Leaderbox, a leadership and team development platform designed to build confidence, collaboration and decision-making skills. He is also a prolific author whose books include ‘Commando: The Inside Story of Britain’s Royal Marines’ and the acclaimed 2026 release ‘Churchill’s Killing House’.
Alongside his exploration and broadcasting achievements, Monty is a passionate advocate for conservation, education and military charities. He serves as President of the Galapagos Conservation Trust, is a Patron of Help for Heroes and the Shark Trust, and regularly supports initiatives promoting environmental awareness and veteran welfare. As a speaker, Monty draws upon experiences gained from military operations, extreme expeditions, wildlife encounters and television production to deliver engaging presentations on leadership, teamwork, resilience and performing under pressure. Combining humour, authenticity and extraordinary real-world experiences, he helps audiences understand how adaptability, courage and effective leadership can unlock success in even the most challenging environments.
Why Hire Monty Halls?
Monty Halls brings together the unique perspectives of a Royal Marines officer, explorer, scientist, broadcaster and bestselling author. His engaging and highly visual presentations draw on extraordinary experiences from military service, global expeditions and award-winning television productions. Speaking on leadership, resilience, teamwork, risk management, environmental sustainability and peak performance, Monty inspires audiences with practical lessons learned in challenging environments. His authentic storytelling, humour and ability to connect adventure with business and organisational challenges make him a sought-after keynote speaker for conferences, leadership events and corporate gatherings.
- VIDEOS
- TESTIMONIALS
- SPEAKING TOPICS
- COSTS
“Monty delivered an inspirational talk covering leadership, team building and the diverse marine environment on Ireland’s West Coast, to our Citi WorldLink Conference. Our colleagues loved the presentation, left with abundant smiles and happily recall the event to this day. We would not hesitate to book Monty again and can’t recommend him highly enough” – Michael Vallance, Global Head – Worldlink Payment Services, Citibank
“We have worked with Monty on our last two strategy days, initially as a motivational influence and more latterly as our planner/facilitator. Monty was very quick to understand the direction we wanted to go and provided insightful guidance and judgement. Monty uses vivid examples from his experiences in both the Marines and his TV adventures that help demonstrate the need for a clear strategy and how to make this strategy become a living force in our business. His enthusiasm and passion are infectious.’’ – Tim Buckley Director Residentials, Savills
- Teamwork and High Performance
- Storytelling and Communication
- Risk Management and Decision Making
- Resilience and Mental Toughness
- Motivation and Personal Development
- Military Leadership Lessons
- Marine Biology and Ocean Science
- Leadership Under Pressure
- Expedition Planning and Execution
- Environmental Conservation
- Change, Adaptability and Uncertainty
- Adventure and Exploration
The cost of hiring Monty Halls depends on your event format, location, duration and any travel requirements. For an accurate and tailored quote, please contact a SpeakOut booking agent for expert guidance.
