Sir Richard Shirreff

General Sir Richard Shirreff, a man of remarkable military and strategic acumen, has transitioned his vast experience into the realm of geopolitical, political and strategy keynote speaking. 

His illustrious career, spanning several decades, has equipped him with unique insights into the complexities of international relations, leadership, and crisis management. Commissioned from Sandhurst into the 14th/20th King’s Hussars in 1978, his early military career saw him serving in diverse locations like Germany, Canada, Northern Ireland, the Gulf, Hong Kong and Brunei. He commanded The King’s Royal Hussars and later, the 7th Armoured Brigade and 3rd (UK) Division, experiences that honed his leadership skills and strategic thinking.

Sir Richard’s tenure as NATO’s Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe from 2011 to 2014 marked the pinnacle of his military career. This role, the highest a European can attain within NATO, involved strategic operations and collaborations with allied governments, NGOs, and international organizations. It was here that Sir Richard mastered the art of navigating the complex web of international politics and military strategy. In this capacity, he demonstrated exceptional skill in building unity among diverse stakeholders, often with competing priorities. He effectively engaged with governments, the European Union, and various organisations in planning and executing campaigns, particularly in Afghanistan. His leadership was instrumental in generating the necessary force levels and building bridges - intellectually, culturally and practically - to support NATO’s operations and broader transformation.