Adventurer, Fastest Person To Circumnavigate the Globe Single-Handed, Founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation & Knight of the French Legion of Honour
Dame Ellen MacArthur’s Biography:
Dame Ellen MacArthur is one of Britain’s most celebrated sailors and sustainability campaigners, best known for becoming the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe single-handed. Her remarkable achievements at sea, combined with her pioneering work in environmental reform, have established her as one of the world’s most respected voices on resilience, innovation and leadership. Ellen first captured international attention through her extraordinary endurance and determination in competitive sailing, becoming the youngest person to complete the Vendée Globe before going on to break world records aboard Kingfisher 2. Alongside her sporting success, she founded the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and later the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which has become a global leader in promoting the circular economy. With her unique ability to connect elite performance with sustainability, Ellen is hired as a keynote speaker to inspire audiences on leadership, collaboration, innovation and creating long-term change.
Ellen developed a passion for sailing from a young age and quickly built a reputation as one of the most talented sailors of her generation. Her career accelerated through competitive offshore racing, where her determination and tactical intelligence earned widespread admiration. She became the youngest competitor to complete the gruelling Vendée Globe solo round the world yacht race, an achievement that transformed her into a national figure. She later captained the round-the-world record attempt aboard Kingfisher 2 before securing global recognition by setting the record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the world. Her achievements earned her appointment as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, while France also recognised her impact by appointing her a Knight of the French Legion of Honour.
Beyond sailing, Ellen has become an influential public figure through her advocacy, media appearances and charitable work. Her autobiography gave audiences a personal insight into the determination and discipline behind her success, while her work with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has helped countless young people rebuild confidence after cancer treatment. Through interviews, documentaries, conferences and international forums, she has become a leading voice on sustainability and the future of global industry. Her expertise is sought after by governments, multinational organisations and educational institutions looking to understand the transition towards a circular economy and more sustainable business practices.
Why Hire Dame Ellen MacArthur?
Ellen’s influence extends through board advisory work, global partnerships and the continued success of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which works with businesses, policymakers and academics to redesign the world’s economy for the future. Her experience navigating extreme conditions at sea gives her a powerful perspective on teamwork, preparation and adaptability, while her environmental leadership provides practical insight into innovation and long-term thinking. Combining world-class sporting achievement with purpose-driven leadership, Ellen is an exceptional keynote speaker who engages audiences with authentic storytelling, strategic insight and a compelling vision for creating positive global change.
Dame Ellen MacArthur’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Dame Ellen MacArthur’s remarkable career:
- 2009 – Founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation
- 2008 – Appointed a Knight of the French Legion of Honour
- 2005 – Made Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire
- 2004 – Became the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe single-handed
- 2003 – Captained the round-the-world record attempt in Kingfisher 2
- 2003 – Set up the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust
- 2002 – Published her autobiography
- 2001 – Became the youngest person to complete the Vendee Globe
Videos
Dame Ellen MacArthur’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Truly humbling and human, really moved everyone and made them hold up a mirror to themselves.” – Involve
Speaking Topics
Dame Ellen MacArthur’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Management of risk
- Business management
- Cities and the environment
- Innovation and creativity
- Transformation
- Goal setting and performance
- Leadership and motivation
- Circular economy and sustainability
How Much Does Dame Ellen MacArthur Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Dame Ellen MacArthur?
Dame Ellen MacArthur’s speaking fees vary depending on the event format, location, duration and level of preparation required. For an accurate quote, please share your event date, location and brief with an official booking agent.