Lars Sudmann

Lars Sudmann is a leading business advisor, consultant, executive trainer and one of Europe’s most respected keynote speakers on leadership, strategy, innovation and communication. As the founder of Sudmann & Company, he helps global organisations and senior leaders navigate complex business environments, build high-performance cultures and develop effective leadership strategies. His client portfolio includes major international brands such as Microsoft, Shell, Roche, Merck and Deutsche Post DHL. Renowned for his practical insights and engaging delivery style, Lars is particularly sought after for his expertise in leading through change, mastering virtual and global workplaces, and fostering innovation. His TEDx presentations have attracted more than two million views, further cementing his reputation as a world-class speaker.

Lars began his career in management consulting with McKinsey & Company in 1999, gaining valuable experience advising organisations on business performance and strategic transformation. In 2000, he joined Procter & Gamble as a Financial Analyst and steadily progressed through a series of senior leadership positions. His career included roles as Global Strategic Planning Manager, Head of Logistics Finance and Chief Financial Officer. In 2011, he became Head of Supply Chain Risk Management and Process Consulting, overseeing critical operational and strategic initiatives. Alongside his corporate responsibilities, Lars developed a growing reputation as an expert communicator, leadership coach and innovation specialist.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Lars has built an impressive portfolio of publications and professional recognition. He is the author of ‘Innovation That Sticks’ and co-author of ‘The Smart Presenter’, both of which focus on helping professionals communicate ideas effectively and drive meaningful change. He has been recognised six times as Belgian Champion of Public Speaking and twice as European Champion of Public Speaking. His expertise has also been featured by Forbes, BBC Capital, Fast Company and The Chicago Tribune.

Alongside his consulting and speaking work, Lars serves as a Senior Fellow and Council Director at The Conference Board, a leading global think tank. He has lectured on leadership, organisational change and communication at institutions including RWTH Aachen University, the University of Braunschweig and the University of Lüneburg. Combining executive experience, academic insight and elite communication skills, Lars equips audiences with practical tools to lead with confidence, innovate effectively and communicate with impact.

Lars Sudmann delivers engaging, evidence-based keynote presentations that combine real-world executive experience with elite communication expertise. A regular TEDx speaker, he is renowned for translating complex leadership and business challenges into actionable strategies. Audiences benefit from his expertise in leadership development, organisational transformation, innovation, communication and navigating uncertainty in global environments. Drawing on experience across consulting, multinational corporations and academia, Lars provides practical frameworks that help leaders improve performance, drive change and inspire teams to achieve sustainable success.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Lars Sudmann’s remarkable career:

  • 2021 – Founded Sudmann & Company, providing leadership, innovation and strategy consulting to organisations worldwide.
  • 2019 – Published Innovation That Sticks, offering practical insights into embedding innovation within organisations.
  • 2016 – Joined The Conference Board as Senior Fellow and Council Director for Strategy & Transformation and CFO Councils.
  • 2014 – Became both European Champion and Belgian Champion of Public Speaking, further establishing his reputation as an elite communicator.
  • 2014 – Co-authored The Smart Presenter, a guide to effective business communication and presentation skills.
  • 2012 – Reached the finals of the European Young Innovator of the Year competition.
  • 2011 – Became Head of Supply Chain Risk Management and Process Consulting at Procter & Gamble.
  • 2011 – Began lecturing at RWTH Aachen University on leadership, organisational change and innovation.
  • 2008 – Served as Chief Financial Officer at Procter & Gamble while also winning European and Belgian Public Speaking titles.
  • 1999 – Started his professional career in Management Consulting at McKinsey & Company, advising organisations on business strategy and performance improvement.