Chairman of The Co-Operative Group, Former Deputy Chairman of Leeds United Football Club, Former Non-Executive Chairman of the Royal Mail, Former CEO of Asda & Honorary Fellow at the University of Central Lancashire
Allan Leighton’s Biography:
Allan Leighton is one of Britain’s most respected business leaders, best known for transforming major consumer brands and leading some of the UK’s most recognisable organisations through periods of growth, change and challenge. Renowned for his energetic leadership style, straight talking approach and ability to inspire high-performance cultures, Allan has held senior positions across retail, hospitality, manufacturing and sport. From helping shape the success of Asda as CEO to serving as Chairman of Royal Mail and The Co-operative Group, he has built a reputation for delivering commercial success while remaining people-focused. His engaging storytelling, practical leadership insights and real-world experience make him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for organisations looking to inspire teams, navigate change and strengthen leadership capability.
Allan began his career with Mars, where he became General Sales Manager for the UK Grocery Division before progressing to Managing Director of Mars Ireland and Portugal and later Marketing and Sales Director for Pedigree Petfoods. His profile rose significantly when he joined Asda as Marketing Director before becoming Deputy Chief Executive, helping to drive the retailer’s transformation into one of the UK’s leading supermarket brands. Alongside executive leadership roles, Allan developed an extensive portfolio career, serving as Deputy Chairman of Leeds United Football Club, Chairman of Business in the Community and Non Executive Director roles with companies including Dyson, Scottish Power, BSkyB and Wilson Connolly. He later became Chairman of Royal Mail, becoming its longest serving chairman, before leading organisations including Pace Plc, Pandora, Simba Sleep, Pizza Express, BrewDog and The Co-operative Group.
Why Hire Allan Leighton?
Throughout his career, Allan has received recognition for both his business achievements and contributions to leadership thinking. Cranfield University awarded him an Honorary Degree, while the University of Central Lancashire presented him with an Honorary Fellowship. Allan also became widely known to television audiences as the mentor on Channel 5’s ‘Breaking into Tesco’, where he shared practical advice with aspiring entrepreneurs and business talent. Beyond the boardroom, he has passionately supported Breast Cancer Care, completing the London Marathon as part of his mission to raise £1 million for the charity. His combination of commercial success, media presence and charitable commitment gives audiences a speaker who is both credible and relatable.
Allan is also an accomplished author, publishing ‘Tough Calls: Making The Right Decisions In Challenging Times’ and ‘On Leadership: Practical Wisdom From The People Who Know’, both of which reflect his honest and pragmatic approach to leadership. His speeches draw directly on decades of frontline business experience, covering leadership, resilience, teamwork, culture change, and decision-making under pressure. Known for his humour, warmth and engaging delivery, Allan combines practical lessons with entertaining personal stories from the worlds of retail, sport and corporate leadership. Audiences value his ability to connect with people at every level of business, making him an outstanding choice as a keynote speaker for conferences, leadership events and corporate gatherings.
Allan Leighton’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Allan Leighton’s remarkable career in customer service and experience:
- 2023 – Resigned as the Chairman of The Co-Operative Group
- 2021 – Non-Executive Chairman of BrewDog
- 2020 – Group Chairman of Pizza Express
- 2018 – Chairman of Simba Sleep
- 2015 – Chairman of The Co-Operative Group
- 2013 – Chief Executive of Pandora
- 2011 – Chairman of Pace Plc
- 2010 – Awarded an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Central Lancashire
- 2004 – Awarded an Honorary Degree from Cranfield University
- 2002 – Chairman of Royal Mail, the longest-serving chairman
Videos
Allan Leighton’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“A straightforward approach to business, removing any management jargon” – Leaders in London
“Allan Leighton gave us a memorable experience!” – GG2 Awards
“A superb communicator, inspirational and witty!” – The Home Office
Speaking Topics
Allan Leighton’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Busienss
- Retail
- Leadership
- Consumer Behaviour
How Much Does Allan Leighton Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Allan Leighton?
Allan Leighton’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.