Former Chief Executive Of Dyson, Executive Director of HeadBox, Former General Manager of Audio Visual Products at Toshiba & Named Orange UK’s Business Leader of the Year
Martin McCourt’s Biography:
Martin McCourt is a transformational business leader best known for his 15-year tenure as CEO of Dyson, where he helped establish the company as one of the world’s leading technology and engineering brands. With more than 40 years of experience across manufacturing, marketing, leadership and innovation, Martin has built a reputation for driving commercial growth and organisational transformation. His expertise spans multiple industries, from consumer goods to advanced technology, making him a highly respected keynote speaker on leadership, innovation, change management and business strategy. Recognised for his influence in British business, he was named Orange UK’s Business Leader of the Year.
Martin began his career in 1976, working in Business Development at Mars before progressing into senior leadership roles at some of the world’s most recognisable brands. In 1980, he became National Sales Manager at Duracell, developing expertise in commercial strategy and sales leadership. He later joined Toshiba, serving as General Manager of Audio Visual Products in 1987. These experiences laid the foundation for his appointment at Dyson, where he oversaw significant expansion and international growth between 1996 and 2012.
Alongside his executive career, Martin has held several influential advisory and academic positions. He is currently a Non-Executive Director of HeadBox, while he also served as Chairman of Lightfoot and Freeflow Technology. In addition, Martin is a Visiting Professor at Aston University, where he shares his business expertise with future leaders.
As a speaker, Martin is valued for his ability to translate decades of boardroom and operational experience into practical business insights. Drawing on his leadership at Dyson and his experience across global brands, he delivers engaging talks on innovation, resilience, culture change and sustainable growth. His presentations combine strategic thinking with real-world examples, making him a trusted advisor and inspiring speaker for organisations navigating transformation and technological change.
Why Hire Martin McCourt?
Martin McCourt is hired as a speaker for his rare combination of global leadership experience, transformational business expertise and deep understanding of innovation. Having led Dyson through a major period of international growth, Martin offers audiences first-hand insights into scaling businesses, building high-performance cultures and leading through change. His engaging speaking style, combined with practical examples from brands such as Dyson, Mars and Toshiba, makes his presentations highly relevant for corporate audiences. Martin is particularly sought after for conferences focused on leadership, innovation, manufacturing, technology and business transformation.
Martin McCourt’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Martin McCourt’s remarkable career:
- 2022 – Acts as Non-Executive Director at HeadBox, advising the technology-led events platform on leadership and expansion.
- 2019 – Served as Non-Executive Director of Weber-Stephen Products, supporting strategic business growth and innovation initiatives.
- 2018 – Chaired Lightfoot, helping to drive sustainable vehicle technology and behavioural change solutions.
- 2018 – Served as Chairman of Freeflow Technology, supporting innovation and technological advancement.
- 2021 – Holds the role of Visiting Professor at Aston University, mentoring and educating future business leaders.
- 2012 – Concluded a highly successful 15-year tenure as CEO of Dyson, having overseen major international growth and brand development.
- 1996 – Appointed CEO of Dyson, leading the business through a transformational period of innovation and expansion.
- 1987 – Became General Manager of Audio Visual Products at Toshiba, managing product strategy and commercial operations.
- 1980 – Served as National Sales Manager at Duracell, developing expertise in sales leadership and consumer markets.
- 1976 – Began his career in Business Development at Mars, gaining early commercial and strategic business experience.
Videos
Martin McCourt’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Martin’s presentation was excellent and we have had a great deal of very positive feedback from a number of people already. He made a big impression and his contribution to our morning was invaluable and helped make it a great success for us so far.” – Delville Management
“The discussion was great, thank you so much. Please pass along our thanks once again to Martin.” – Joyce, American Family Insurance
“Stimulating, funny, thought-provoking and challenging – the best we’ve had!” – BDO LLP
“Martin is one of the best after dinner speakers we have had in 17 years. His storytelling gave our guests the ‘take home’ nuggets of advice and inspiration that any good business speaker must provide. He had us all laughing at his turn of phrase and self-depreciating insights.” – Fast Track 250
Speaking Topics
Martin McCourt’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Business Management
- Business Strategy
- Overseas Expansion
- Brand Development
- Innovation & Technology
- Drive & Determination
How Much Does Martin McCourt Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Martin McCourt?
Martin McCourt’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.