Founder of Shazam, CEO of Guard Inc, 12-Time Patent Holder, Expert on Game-Changing AI, Exponential Growth, Disruptive Innovation & Overcoming the Impossible.
Chris Barton’s Biography:
Chris Barton is a celebrated technology pioneer and entrepreneurial visionary, universally known as the founder, original CEO, and former Board Director of Shazam. He is the mind who conceived and drove the creation of this breakthrough artificial intelligence technology, which fundamentally changed how the world discovers music. Shazam has been downloaded over two billion times globally and solidified its status as a market disruptor when it was acquired by Apple in 2018 for a reported $400 million, ranking as one of the company’s largest acquisitions to date. Chris is renowned for his expertise in “different ways of thinking,” which enables him to create game-changing products.
Chris began his career in 1999 in Business Development at Microsoft. However, his ambition to bring the impossible idea of Shazam to life led him to co-found the company in 2000, serving as its original CEO and remaining on the Board of Directors until the Apple acquisition. His work at Shazam was pioneering, launching the global service years before the iPhone and app store existed. Following this initial success, he successfully translated his strategic acumen to industry giants, joining Google in 2004 in Strategic Partnerships for Mobile. By 2010, he was promoted to Head of Android Business Development, where he was instrumental in establishing Android’s crucial mobile carrier alliance framework. He later contributed his deep market knowledge to Dropbox, serving as the Head of Mobile Operators Business Development starting in 2011.
Quantifying his technical impact, Chris is a decorated inventor who has been granted 12 patents for his work across Shazam, Google, and Dropbox. Demonstrating his continuous dedication to solving real-world problems with technology, he launched his newest venture in 2020: Guard Inc., an innovative AI concept aimed at preventing drowning incidents in swimming pools. A highly sought-after voice on innovation and tenacity, Chris regularly shares his insights at global corporate and industry events, including his recent keynote at the UnitedAg 44th Annual Meeting & Conference “CONNECT”.
Why Hire Chris Barton?
Chris Barton offers a rare blend of entrepreneurial success and corporate innovation experience. He is a master storyteller who provides tangible, actionable lessons on disruptive thinking, persistence in the face of impossible obstacles, and how to structure organisations for explosive, frictionless growth. He equips leaders and teams with the mindset required to invent their own future.
Chris Barton’s Career Highlights:
Below showcases Chris Barton’s career in public policy and:
- 2025: Headlining speaker at the SXSW Conference, delivering a talk on ‘AI for Global Good.’
- 2024: Keynote speaker at the UnitedAg 44th Annual Meeting & Conference “CONNECT”.
- 2020: Founded and became CEO of Guard Inc. (AI drowning prevention concept).
- 2018: Shazam was acquired by Apple for a reported $400 million.
- 2011: Head of Mobile Operators Business Development for Dropbox.
- 2010: Head of Android Business Development – Americas for Google.
- 2004: Strategic Partnerships – Mobile for Google.
- 2000: Founded, became the Original CEO, and served as Board Director of Shazam.
- 1999: Began career in Business Development for Microsoft.
Videos
Chris Barton’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Chris is perhaps the most driven person I have met. Shazam was a dream he invented, and his persistence and dedication were what eventually created the company. Chris is a true entrepreneur, and I have always been in awe of his talent.” – Jerry, Chairman, Learning Foundation
“As Founder and CEO of Shazam, Chris was an early inspiration to all who worked with him. A real dynamo – passionate about his company, and full of creative ideas.” – Clayton, Owner, ImaginativeHR
Speaking Topics
Chris Barton’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Bring Impossible Ideas to Life
- Eliminate Effort to Unlock Explosive Growth
- Overcome Obstacles with Imagination
- Build the Vision You See (But Others Don’t)
How Much Does Chris Barton Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Chris Barton?
The cost of hiring Chris Barton varies depending on your event format, location and required level of involvement. For an accurate, personalised quote, please contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.