Former CEO of Amazon, Chairman of ASOS, President of the CBI, Currently Lead Non-Executive Director on the Board of the UK’s Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Trainline & Expert in Business Growth & Leadership
Brian McBride’s Biography:
Brian McBride is recognised as one of Europe’s foremost digital leaders, having built an influential career leading some of the world’s most successful organisations through periods of technological change and business transformation. Best known for serving as CEO of Amazon UK from 2006 to 2011 and later as Chairman of ASOS, Brian has consistently demonstrated an ability to identify emerging opportunities and scale organisations for sustained growth. His keynote speeches draw upon decades of boardroom experience, providing audiences with practical insights into leadership, adaptability, digital transformation and innovation. Through stories of managing rapid growth and navigating disruption, Brian equips businesses with lessons that are directly applicable to today’s changing marketplace.
Brian began his career in 1983, holding senior positions across both the US and UK divisions of IBM before moving into leadership roles with major technology organisations. CEO Michael Dell personally recruited him to lead Dell’s UK operations, highlighting his reputation as an exceptional business leader. He later joined T-Mobile UK, where he played a pivotal role in introducing 3G technology. In 2006, Brian became CEO of Amazon UK, overseeing remarkable growth in sales from £3 billion to £5 billion while helping transform the business from an online bookseller into a leading digital marketplace through initiatives including Amazon Prime and Amazon Web Services.
Following Amazon, Brian was appointed Chairman of ASOS in 2012 and guided the business through a significant phase of international expansion and cultural development. During his six-year tenure, company revenues increased from £500 million to £2.4 billion. Alongside his executive achievements, Brian has also held numerous influential board and advisory positions.
His current portfolio reflects his standing across British business and public life. Brian serves as Chairman of Trainline Plc and Lead Non-Executive Director at the Ministry of Defence. He has also served as a Non-Executive Director for the BBC and Celtic Football Club, as well as a member of the UK Government Digital Advisory Board. In recognition of his contribution to business and philanthropy, he received an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow in 2024 and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in June 2025.
Why Hire Brian McBride?
Brian McBride is hired to speak because he combines hands-on experience from some of the world’s most recognised brands with a practical understanding of leadership in periods of uncertainty and growth. Drawing on lessons from digital transformation, board leadership and scaling international businesses, he delivers actionable insights that resonate with business audiences. His engaging presentations focus on building resilient cultures, embracing innovation and leading through disruption, helping organisations understand how to remain competitive in rapidly changing markets while inspiring leaders to think bigger and act decisively.
Brian McBride’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Brian McBride’s remarkable career:
- 2025 – Brian was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in recognition of his contributions to business and philanthropy.
- 2024 – Became a Non-Executive Director of the Confederation of British Industry while also receiving an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow.
- 2022 – Appointed President of the Confederation of British Industry, representing and advocating for British businesses.
- 2012 – Appointed Chairman of ASOS and oversaw revenue growth from £500 million to £2.4 billion.
- 2011 – Concluded his successful period as CEO of Amazon UK after leading significant growth and expansion.
- 2006 – Became CEO of Amazon UK and helped transform the business into a major digital marketplace.
- 2003 – Held a senior leadership role at T-Mobile UK and contributed to the rollout of 3G technology.
- 1990s – Was personally recruited by Michael Dell to lead Dell’s UK operations during a period of expansion.
- 1983 – Began his leadership career in senior positions at IBM across both the UK and US operations.
Videos
Brian McBride’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Just wanted to say a big thanks to you all. The webinar was a great listen. I’m not just saying that either, content wise it was one of the best we’ve had and given we had 255 registrations and 143 watching live, I’m sure it’ll lead to some great opportunity for Endava. I hope we get to do it again someday.” – Retail Gazette
“Brian’s talk was excellent and went down so well with our customers who have all commented on how much they enjoyed his talk on their feedback forms.” – Logistex
“Yes, it was excellent thank you. We’ve already had lots of feedback about how inspiring Brian was.” – Network Rail
“The presentation you gave was excellent and very well received by the team – the personal anecdotes are so useful in bringing added context. I am sure that the A players hire A players whilst B players hire C players will be often used and in fact, I have heard it from multiple sources already!” – Philip, President, Engineering Services, AtkinsRealis
Speaking Topics
Brian McBride’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Business
- Economics
- Innovation
- Digital Disruption
- Retail
How Much Does Brian McBride Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Brian McBride?
Brian McBride’s speaking fees typically reflect his exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.