Heather E McGowan: Future of Work
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Heather E. McGowan is renowned for her expertise in future-of-work strategies, focusing on preparing leaders, employees, and organizations for the rapidly evolving work landscape.
- McGowan specializes in addressing the challenges and opportunities brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by the fusion of physical, digital, and biological systems.
- She works closely with leaders to enhance their ability to navigate and lead through times of technological and societal change, emphasizing adaptive thinking and continuous learning.
- Travels from: Boston, MA
- **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Adaptation Advantage
When Heather McGowan and Chris Shipley wrote The Adaptation Advantage (April 2020, Wiley) they did not realize how prescient their advice and predictions would become when the coronavirus global pandemic required an immediate and dramatic shift in work, learning, and leading.
Predictions they made for the next three to five years, occurred over the following three to five weeks.
Overnight companies remapped supply chains, pivoted product lines, and transformed to distributed work-from-home organization. Entire university and school systems adopted virtual delivery exclusively, something many said they would never do.
This new normal, or normal of now, requires a focus on culture, purpose, trust, psychological safety as we embark on the largest social experiment in human history.
Future of Work is Learning
We live in times of accelerated change driven by exponentially growing technologies and an increasingly hyperconnected and interdependent global market economy.
As a result, work tasks as we knew them in the past have become atomized, broken into job fragments that can be done anywhere around the world; automated, achievable or solvable by computerized technologies; and augmented, technologies that extend the human physically or cognitively.
The Future of Identity is Purpose
Heather E. McGowan asks children and young people “What do you want to be when you grow up?”; we ask university students “What is your major or area of study?”; and we ask each other “What do you do for a living?”.
These questions refer to an application of knowledge and skills at a moment in time.
That moment in time is rapidly decreasing. According to research, as change rates accelerate–driven by technology and globalization–it is possible for us to work numerous jobs from many different industries in our lifetime.
Despite this, we continue to limit our definition to one occupational self.
Leadership, Diversity, and the Identity Crisis
The only thing developing faster than technology is culture. The questions “Who are you?”, “What do you do for a living?” and “Where are you from?” are becoming unmoored and less dependable tethers to our core identity.
Demographics and social norms are rapidly shifting worldwide, and our once reliable occupational identities, once spanning multiple generations, must now endure a much longer career arc due to increased human longevity.
In the developed world, we spend more than 50% of our time and attention online creating connections and community in areas different from our physical location.
Read Full Bio
Heather E McGowan is a visionary future-of-work strategist dedicated to helping leaders and organizations navigate the complexities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With a background that spans various industries and an in-depth understanding of technological advancements, Heather is renowned for her ability to foresee and articulate the future landscape of work. Her insightful perspectives have made her a sought-after speaker, consultant, and advisor for companies and institutions aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world.
Heather E McGowan
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by the fusion of technologies blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres, requires a new approach to leadership and workforce development. Heather McGowan’s expertise lies in guiding organizations through this transformation, ensuring they are equipped to leverage emerging technologies while fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. Her work has been instrumental in reshaping how companies think about talent, innovation, and competitive advantage.
As an advocate for lifelong learning and workforce agility, Heather emphasizes the importance of preparing people for roles that do not yet exist. Her thought leadership has been influential in both academic and corporate circles, where she frequently shares her insights on the future of work, leadership, and the impact of technology on human potential. Heather’s ability to translate complex concepts into actionable strategies makes her an invaluable resource for any organization looking to thrive in the new era of work.
Heather E McGowan’s journey into the realm of future-of-work strategy began with her academic pursuits in industrial design and business administration. She holds degrees from the Rhode Island School of Design and Babson College, where she honed her ability to blend creativity with strategic thinking. This unique combination of skills has allowed her to approach the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution from a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating design thinking with business acumen.
Her career trajectory includes roles in academia, corporate strategy, and consulting, each of which has contributed to her deep understanding of organizational dynamics and technological innovation. Heather E McGowan has served as an advisor to several Fortune 500 companies, helping them to reimagine their business models and workforce strategies in the context of rapid technological change. Her work in this area has earned her recognition as a leading voice in the future-of-work discourse.
At events and conferences worldwide, Heather E McGowan is known for her engaging and thought-provoking presentations. She has delivered keynote speeches at prestigious forums such as the World Economic Forum, TEDx, and numerous industry-specific conferences. Her ability to captivate audiences with her forward-thinking insights and practical advice has made her a favorite among event planners and attendees alike. Heather’s presentations often focus on the intersections of technology, education, and workforce development, providing a holistic view of how these elements interact to shape the future of work.
Heather’s influence extends beyond the stage; she is also a prolific writer and thought leader. Her articles and whitepapers on the future of work have been featured in leading publications such as Forbes, Fast Company, and Harvard Business Review. Additionally, Heather E McGowan co-authored the book “The Adaptation Advantage,” which explores how individuals and organizations can thrive in a rapidly changing world. This book has been widely praised for its practical insights and actionable strategies, further cementing Heather’s reputation as a go-to expert in her field.
In her consulting work, Heather collaborates with organizations to develop future-ready strategies that align with their unique goals and challenges. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability, where employees are encouraged to continuously learn and evolve. Heather’s approach is grounded in the belief that the most successful organizations of the future will be those that can seamlessly integrate new technologies while empowering their workforce to navigate change effectively.
Heather E McGowan stands out as a leading future-of-work strategist, helping organizations and leaders navigate the transformative changes of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Her multidisciplinary background, encompassing industrial design and business strategy, allows her to offer unique and actionable insights into the future landscape of work. Heather’s engaging presentations, combined with her deep understanding of technological advancements and workforce dynamics, make her an exceptional choice for any event.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
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.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
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.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
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 and other costs
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.
Deposits and securing a booking
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.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (31)
Rick Lewis’s journey into the world of professional speaking and entertainment began with a passion for performance. He started as a street performer, mastering the art of captivating audiences with his charisma and humor. This early experience laid the foundation for his future success as a speaker and entertainer. Rick Lewis | Motivational Speaker As […]
- Travels from: San Diego, CA
- Motivational Speakers
- (32)
Jenn Lim is the bestselling author of Beyond Happiness, and the CEO of Delivering Happiness [DH], a company she and Tony Hsieh [the late CEO of Zappos.com] cofounded to create happier company cultures for a more profitable and sustainable approach to business. Delivering Happiness started as a book (New York Times and WSJ Bestseller, which sold one million copies worldwide) and […]
- Travels from: Oakland, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (19)
Elatia Abate is an entrepreneur with a mission to revolutionize leadership to empower humanity in the Age of AI. Named a Forbes leading female futurist, she is a globally recognized expert on the futures of work and strategy and currently serves as Futurist in Residence for Paylocity. Her Future-Led Leadership learning and development content has […]
- Travels from: Atlanta, GA
- Futurists Speakers
- (43)
Eva Longoria is a passionate philanthropist and activist for expanding opportunities for Latinos, raising awareness of ovarian cancer, and protecting the welfare of children. Longoria is an executive producer of the popular dramedy Devious Maids, a program developed by her company, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment. Meanwhile, she is a successful restaurateur, an author of the best-selling cookbook Eva’s Kitchen, […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Celebrity Speakers
- (14)
Sugar Ray Leonard, a name synonymous with boxing excellence and indomitable spirit, is a legendary figure whose impact extends far beyond the ring. With a career that has seen numerous world titles and accolades, Leonard’s journey is one of resilience, dedication, and triumph. As a speaker, he brings the same intensity and passion to the […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Sporting Speakers
- (19)
Silvia Garcia, the former International Marketing Director and President of the Happiness Institute at Coca-Cola, is a pioneer in the field of understanding how emotions impact consumer and employee behavior. With her unparalleled expertise, she has inspired millions to revolutionize their approach to sales, customer retention, relationship-building, leadership, and overall success. Silvia Garcia’s insights have […]
- Travels from: Lille, France
- Happiness Speakers
- (15)
Chris Dyer is a dynamic leader and globally recognized authority on leadership, company culture, and business growth. With a career marked by innovation and purpose, Chris has transitioned from opening high-end hotels in Hollywood to becoming a highly sought-after consultant, speaker, and author. His unique ability to foster thriving cultures and develop purpose-driven leadership has […]
- Travels from: Anaheim, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (13)
- (4)
Dr. Todd Dewett is renowned globally as a leadership expert, authenticity advocate, best-selling author, and captivating speaker. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Todd has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide through his powerful talks, insightful writings, and unwavering commitment to fostering authentic leadership. Todd Dewett stands out as an authenticity expert, […]
- Travels from: Houston, TX
- Leadership Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
