Robert Gates
Transform leadership and security strategy with Robert Gates, former U.S. Secretary of Defense and geopolitical expert. Robert equips organizations with crisis decision-making frameworks and organizational change strategies, drawing from his cross-partisan leadership experience at the CIA, Pentagon, and Texas A&M University.
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As the former Secretary of Defense (2006-2011), CIA Director, and President of Texas A&M University, Gates has navigated complex international challenges at the highest levels of government and academia. His 26-year intelligence career provides him with rare perspective on global security landscapes and institutional leadership.
Gates offers organizations practical strategies for navigating geopolitical uncertainty and institutional transformation. Drawing from his experience managing the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, he illuminates how leaders can make consequential decisions amid competing priorities and limited information. His cross-partisan approach demonstrates how to build consensus and implement change in polarized environments.
Audiences gain actionable frameworks for strategic decision-making during crisis situations, practical approaches to leading organizational change across resistant bureaucracies, and insights into global security trends that impact business planning and risk management.
Book Robert Gates for a rare opportunity to learn from someone who has successfully led complex organizations through the most challenging global security environments of our time.
Topics, Sessions And Talks
Robert Gates discusses Russia's invasion of Ukraine, leading through change, and partisan politics. Talks are designed to resonate with diverse audiences, offering insights into current events and policy.
Experience the unique insights and pragmatic approach of Robert M. Gates, former United States Secretary of Defense, in a captivating keynote talk. Gain valuable perspectives on foreign policy, national security, and international relations, as Gates shares his expertise and critiques both political parties. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of America's longest-serving defense secretaries.
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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. We work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.
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We work with speakers across a variety of fee ranges, giving you the flexibility to choose someone who fits your event's needs. Virtual keynote fees in the UK and Europe typically start at £2,000, while in-person top-tier speakers can reach £25,000. In the US, virtual in-person fees range from $5,000 to over $100,000, depending on the speaker and format, such as after-dinner talks, conference keynotes, Q&As, or podcasts. Comedians generally start at £1,500 or $2,000 for a 20-minute set.
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Partnering with PepTalk means elevating your events with our curated roster of top motivational speakers, industry experts, delivering punchy keynotes that leave a lasting impact. From talent selection, to contracts and logistics, we handle it all. We have global expert network, with over 3000 speakers from over 33 countries on our line-up.
We also provide a full range of talent, from event hosts and moderators to interviewers and corporate entertainment, ensuring your event’s success from start to finish.
PepTalk workshops are interactive learning experiences for leaders at all levels, blending theory with practical insights from industry experts. These programs, led by experienced facilitators, are designed to drive real mindset changes and equip participants with actionable skills. Workshops can be customised to meet your organisation's specific needs. Explore our workshop examples and contact us today to learn how your team can benefit.
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