Chris Hirst is a change agent, widely recognized as an innovative and inspirational leader.
After a decade in CEO positions he has a proven track record of leading transformation – guiding his businesses to deliver reputational change, growth and a culture of enduring success.
Chris was appointed Global CEO of Havas Creative Network in January 2019. As CEO he leads 10,000 people across all Havas’ global territories.
During his time as Havas UK’s CEO and Chairman, he was the architect of the first truly integrated agency model many in the industry are looking to emulate.
He believes in the principles of an open culture – where people are given permission to thrive and take risks - accepting that mistakes are a necessary part of success. He is actively engaged in broadening the appeal of the advertising industry and sees diversity and social mobility as key factors in the future health of the creative industries in the UK and Europe.
Chris is an executive board member at Vivendi and a trustee of the MOBO Foundation. He also holds a number of non-exec positions within the startup community.
Chris is a regular speaker at industry events and commentator in national press including BBC News, ITV News, The Politics Show, Evening Standard, FT and Sky News.
Author of "No Bulllshit Leadership" which is based on the author's hard-won experience, this smart, fun book delivers a step-by-step working manual on how to lead – for anyone. Full of simple and direct approaches, it demystifies an over-analysed subject to get to the heart of modern leadership: the life-changing, career-transforming power to get stuff done. Great keynote speaker.