Based on his book Screw Business as Usual, in which Sir Richard reveals his exciting new vision for the future. It’s time to turn capitalism upside down — to shift our values, to switch from a just profit focus, to caring for people, communities and the planet.
Sir Richard Branson is an international entrepreneur, adventurer, icon, founder of the Virgin Group, the eccentric and outspoken chairman of Virgin Atlantic Airways and the founder of Virgin Records. Famous for his daring entrepreneurial style, he oversees the Virgin Group, Ltd., an extensive conglomerate encompassing over 360 companies, including recording studios, a travel business, publishing entities, and retail industries worldwide.
An experienced daredevil, Sir Richard Branson has raced powerboats across the ocean and has set distance records in hot air balloons. His unconventional style of living is only a part of his undeniable knack for beating impossible odds in business and in life.
Virgin started when Sir Richard Branson was the tender age of 20. In 1972, soon after he opened a Virgin record store on Oxford Street in London, the young entrepreneur opened a recording studio in Oxfordshire and Virgin Records was born. Mike Oldfield was the first artist to sign and his album, Tubular Bells, sold more than five million copies.
During his ownership of Virgin Records, Branson turned it into a major success, signing such big names as Steve Winwood, Paula Abdul, Belinda Carlisle, Genesis, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Simple Minds, The Human League, Bryan Ferry, Culture Club, Janet Jackson, and The Rolling Stones. In 1992, he sold the Virgin Music Group record labels, music publishing, and recording studios to Thorn EMI in a $1 billion deal.
Sir Richard Branson eventually moved into other industries. He started Virgin Atlantic Airways, which has become the second largest English long haul international airline, and operates a fleet of aircraft to New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, Boston, San Francisco, Washington, Dallas, and Tokyo. He also created Virgin Mobile, USA, the fastest growing company in history to reach $1 billion in revenue.
Since 1985, he has been involved in a number of record-breaking land and air speed and distance attempts. In 1986, with his boat Virgin Atlantic Challenger II, he crossed the Atlantic Ocean in the fastest recorded time ever. One year later, Virgin Atlantic Flyer — a hot air balloon — was the first to cross the Atlantic Ocean and was the largest ever flown at 2.3 million cubic feet capacity, reaching speeds in excess of 130 miles per hour. Again, in 1991, Branson crossed the Pacific Ocean from Japan to Arctic Canada, breaking all existing records with speeds of up to 245 mph in a balloon measuring 2.6 million cubic feet.
Branson has guest starred on several television shows, including Friends, Baywatch, Only Fools and Horses, and The Rebel Billionaire. He also has had cameo appearances in several films such as Around the World in 80 Days, Superman Returns, and Casino Royale. He has also authored several books; most recently, Like a Virgin: Secrets They Won’t Teach You at Business School (September 2012).
In addition to his business activities, Sir Richard Branson backs a number of charities, including The Healthcare Foundation. With the help of Nelson Mandela, Branson and his friend Peter Gabriel brought together a group of eminent global leaders who “offer their collective influence and experience to support peace building, help address major causes of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity.”
The Elders, founded in 2007, includes such leaders as Martti Ahtisaari, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Jimmy Carter, Mary Robinson, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Additionally, in 2009 he brought together a group of the world’s top entrepreneurs to initiate the Carbon War Room, which increases the effectiveness of climate change efforts already underway and focuses on filling any gaps. Branson supports a number of initiatives that lead to economic empowerment and healthy communities.
He became Sir Richard Branson after Queen Elizabeth knighted him in 1999 for his business ability and enthusiasm for the spirit of Britain. In 2000, Branson received the Tony Jannus Award for his accomplishments in commercial air transportation.
December 2007, Sir Richard Branson was presented with the United Nations Correspondents Association Citizen of the World Award for his support for environmental and humanitarian causes. November 2010 Branson was awarded with the German Media Prize, previously awarded to President Bill Clinton and the Dalai Lama.
In July 2012 Branson announced plans to build an orbital space launch system, designated LauncherOne. Four commercial customers have already contracted for launches and two companies are developing standardized satellite buses optimized to the design of LauncherOne, in expectation of business opportunities created by the new smallsat launcher.
Sir Richard’s latest entries into the Guinness World Records include being the oldest person to cross the English Channel by kiteboard and having the most followers on LinkedIn. In September 2013, he led 318 participants to set a new record for the largest number of kitesurfers to complete a one-mile course, in Hampshire.
Sir Richard Branson was awarded a knighthood for services to entrepreneurship. He lives on Necker Island with his wife Joan and has two children, Holly and Sam.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
If you dream of inspiring cult-like brand loyalty and especially the kind that involves mile-long queues and even permanent tattoo then Johnny Cupcakes is for you. The founder of the world-renowned tee-shirt brand Johnny Cupcakes, Johnny’s known for helping other people create blueprints for building brand loyalty, creating memorable experiences, and inspiring innovation. With global […]
Sheena Allen is a visionary leader and celebrated keynote speaker in the realm of digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. As the founder and CEO of CapWay, a neobank designed to address economic inequities and foster financial literacy, Sheena’s groundbreaking work has revolutionized how technology can empower underserved communities. Her journey from growing up in […]
Thom Singer is your next keynote speaker. His content will make your people think and take action (and he is fun and funny as a keynote speaker). Seeking the keynote speaker for your corporate or association conference? Planning a company meeting and need a presenter with strong content from a keynote speaker with an engaging style? In […]
Ryann Richardson is a tech marketer-turned-founder and Diversity & Inclusion leader spent 10 years building brands then made history when she became the 50th Anniversary Miss Black America Her work earned her a spot as the youngest honoree on Savoy Magazine’s list of Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America and set her on the […]
Julie Smolyansky is the dynamic President and CEO of Lifeway Foods, a pioneering company in the production of kefir and probiotic-rich foods. At just 27 years old, she became the youngest female CEO of a publicly traded company, transforming Lifeway into a leader in the health and wellness industry. With her vision and leadership, the […]
Jess Ekstrom is a dynamic and inspiring speaker who has captured the hearts and minds of audiences around the world with her powerful message of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. As the founder of Headbands of Hope, a social enterprise that has donated over one million headbands to children battling cancer, Jess exemplifies the power […]
As a top rated business facilitator, NCAA national rowing champion, U.S. Marine Corps Officer, corporate vice-president, business owner, MBA, world traveler, inspirational author, renowned global business coach, and devoted husband, Chris Steely has a vast array of life and leadership experience. As the Director of Coaching for the world’s top business coaching company, Chris has […]
Laura Brown is a luminary figure in the world of fashion media, renowned for her dynamic leadership as the Editor in Chief of InStyle, one of the foremost authorities in the industry. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Laura has left an indelible mark on the landscape of fashion and media, shaping trends, […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
