Dr Arthur Brooks

Arthur C. Brooks is one of the world’s leading experts on happiness, leadership and human flourishing. Widely recognised for translating complex social science research into practical strategies for personal and professional success, Arthur has built an international reputation as an author, educator and speaker. His work focuses on helping individuals and organisations achieve greater fulfilment, purpose and wellbeing in both their personal and professional lives. Through his research, writing and media presence, he has become a trusted voice on the science of happiness, making him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for business, leadership and educational audiences around the world.

Arthur’s academic and professional journey reflects a unique combination of scholarship and real-world insight. He earned his undergraduate degree from Florida Atlantic University before completing a master’s degree in economics and a doctorate in public policy analysis. His expertise led to senior leadership roles in research and public policy, alongside a distinguished academic career. He serves as Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School and Professor of Management Practice at Harvard Business School, where he teaches courses on leadership, happiness and life purpose. Throughout his career, Arthur has focused on bridging the gap between rigorous research and practical application, helping leaders navigate change, success and personal growth.

Arthur’s influence extends far beyond academia through his bestselling books, media appearances and public recognition. His book ‘From Strength to Strength’ became a number one New York Times bestseller, while ‘Love Your Enemies’ was a national bestseller and was named one of POLITICO’s Top Books of the Year. He also co-authored the global bestseller ‘Build the Life You Want’ with Oprah Winfrey. His achievements have been recognised with numerous honours, including the Irving Kristol Award, the highest distinction awarded by the American Enterprise Institute, multiple honorary doctorates from leading universities and distinguished alumni awards recognising his contributions to public leadership and scholarship.

In addition to his academic work, Arthur is a prolific author whose publications include ‘The Conservative Heart’, ‘The Road to Freedom’, ‘The Battle’, ‘Gross National Happiness and Social Entrepreneurship’, ‘Who Really Cares’, ‘Gifts of the Muse’ and ‘The Performing Arts in a New Era’. He has also reached a global audience through his acclaimed TED Talk, ‘The Art and Science of Happiness’, which explores the practical principles behind living a more meaningful and fulfilling life. His work is regularly featured in major international media, and his insights reach millions through interviews, podcasts and speaking engagements. What makes Arthur an exceptional keynote speaker is his ability to combine evidence-based research with engaging storytelling, humour and practical advice. Audiences leave inspired, informed and equipped with actionable strategies for improving leadership, workplace culture and personal wellbeing, making him an outstanding choice for conferences, corporate events and leadership summits.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Dr Arthur Brooks’ remarkable career:

  • 2025 – Concluded her tenure on the board of The Boat Race Company Ltd while continuing as an Independent Advisor to British Gymnastics
  • 2021 – Co-launched the globally broadcast ‘Inside Out Culture Podcast’
  • 2020 – Published ‘The Long Win’, named a Financial Times Top 10 Business Book
  • 2010s – Appointed Honorary Fellow at Judge Business School, Cambridge University
  • 2009 – Promoted to Deputy Director of the UK Stabilisation Unit, overseeing civilian deployments to conflict zones
  • 2007 – Served as Head of the Political Section at the British Consulate in Basra, Iraq
  • 2006 – Appointed Political Adviser to the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • 2004 – Won Olympic Silver in the women’s coxless pair at the Athens Olympic Games
  • 2003 – Became World Champion in the coxless pair at the World Rowing Championships
  • 2001 – Joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office following her elite sporting career
  • 1999 – Won the World Indoor Rowing Championship and four British Indoor Rowing titles
  • 1996 – Made her Olympic debut for Team GB at the Atlanta Olympic Games in the Women’s Eight