Gerd Leonhard: Technology Futurist

  • Gerd Leonhard is a world-renowned futurist and thought leader specializing in the intersection of humanity and technology. His work explores how emerging technologies like AI, robotics, and digital transformation will shape the future of work, business, and society.
  • Gerd is the author of several acclaimed books, including Technology vs. Humanity, which delves into the ethical and societal implications of technological advancement. 
  • Known for his dynamic and thought-provoking presentations, Gerd delivers engaging keynotes at major global events. 
  • Gerd is a passionate advocate for balancing technology with human values. 

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: Bern, Bern
  • **Fee range: $35,001 - $50,000

Keynote Topics

Amidst the fears and everyday realities of wars and pandemics, the urgency to address global warming and the societal challenges of technological hyper-transformation the world continues to change at a mind-boggling pace.

Radical and once unthinkable climate-emergency measures like new carbon taxes (such as for airline tickets or  for buying meat) are becoming increasingly likely as consumers and concerned citizens around the world push for real and unheard-of change.

At the same time, Company CEO’s are touting their new commitments to stakeholder values, not just shareholder values. So how can we make The Good Future a reality?

Investors and the media is buzzing with excitement as businesses and individuals alike are starting to tap into Generative AI models like Dalle2, ChatGPT and many others. ChatGPT churns out unique texts that often have a disturbingly human-like quality.

Already being utilized in customer service, content production, paper-writing, coding and so on, it appears that generative AI is getting ready to transform the internet as we know it – with Google entering into ‘Red Alert’ mode and Microsoft investing 10 Billion US Dollars into OpenAI. But their impacts on society could be just as vast, in many good ways and in many quite worrisome ways.

How can these tools – and AI in general – help us to achieve what I call ‘The Good Future‘?

Here’s what’s so exciting about ChatGPT: It’s a state-of-the-art language model that can generate human-like text. This makes it useful for a number of natural language processing tasks. Because it is based on OpenAI’s GPT architecture, it can also be fine-tuned to specific tasks and domains.

On the other hand, ChatGPT‘s potential to perpetuate bias has sparked concern as it is trained on ‘random’ internet texts that may include biased or deceptive information.

This raises worries about its use in education, employment, law enforcement, and healthcare. ChatGPT can also to be used to generate deep fake texts, so it could be used to spread misinformation and disinformation, influencing public opinion and elections.

It could be heaven or it could be hell – how to get it right

“The metaverse is a hypothesized iteration of the internet, supporting persistent online 3-D virtual environments through conventional personal computing, as well as virtual and augmented reality headsets” (Wikipedia).    

“The metaverse will feel like a hybrid of today’s online social experiences expanded into three dimensions or projected into the physical world” (Facebook’s Meta briefing).

On the one hand, the Metaverse could be ‘the Internet we’ve always wanted’: Immersive, real-time/feel, 3D… and that could be great for business, commerce, retail and of course technology companies:)

On the other hand, it could end up to be more of a MetaPERverse, replacing human relationships and experiences with deep surveillance and a bizarrely monetized simulations, reducing complex human life to data feeds, fancy graphics and AI-fuelled convenience: Consensual hallucinations sold as ‘human empowerment’?

Imagine social media’s aberrations and abuse – but x 1000!

In this talk, I outline both the ‘heavenly’ possibilities of the Metaverse as well as the more troubling aspects while depicting possible ways forward, based on my motto of ‘embracing technology but not becoming it‘

  • GREEN IS THE NEW DIGITAL: THE SUSTAINABILITY REVOLUTION
  • EXPONENTIAL CHANGE: DIGITIZATION, DECARBONISATION, REFORMATION
  • THE NEXT 10 YEARS (BEYOND THE PANDEMIC)
  • THE 10 MEGASHIFTS OF EXPONENTIAL TRANSFORMATION
  • AWESOME HUMANS AND AMAZING TECHNOLOGY: WORK & EDUCATION
  • WHY AND HOW THE FUTURE IS BETTER THAN WE THINK

Over the past two decades, Gerd Leonhard has risen to one of the top 10 futurist keynote speakers worldwide, he focuses on the future of humanity and technology, digital ethics, artificial intelligence, future-leadership and foresights. With over 2,000 engagements in 60+ countries since 2004, and a combined audience of over 2.5 million people. Gerd has […]

Over the past two decades, Gerd Leonhard has risen to one of the top 10 futurist keynote speakers worldwide, he focuses on the future of humanity and technology, digital ethics, artificial intelligence, future-leadership and foresights.

With over 2,000 engagements in 60+ countries since 2004, and a combined audience of over 2.5 million people.

Gerd has been listed by Wired magazine as one of the Top 100 Most-Influential People in Europe, and as ‘one of the leading media futurists in the World’ by The Wall Street Journal.

His keynotes, are renowned for their hard-hitting and provocative  style – inspiring, humorous, motivational, and always personal.

Using cutting-edge creative  motion design, Gerd’s performances have become a unique immersive experience on the big screen, reinventing the visual side of the conference industry.

Gerd is highly regarded as a global influencer and has advised many business leaders and government officials around the globe.

Gerd Leonhard diverse list of clients include governments, NGOs and Fortune 500 companies such as SAP, Microsoft, Google, Accenture, Deloitte, KPMG, Sony, UBS, Tetrapak, Mastercard, BBC, Unilever, Lloyds Bank, WWF, Sony, The Guardian, Telkom Indonesia, Siemens, RTL, France Telecom, The Financial Times, Ogilvy, Omnicom, The EU Commission, VISA, Audi, NetAPP and many others.

A true thought leader in the futurist space, Gerd is above all a dedicated humanist who believes that  all technological progress should further collective human flourishing. His credo is simple: People, Planet, Purpose and Prosperity.

Gerd uses his keynotes, presentations, workshops and advisory sessions to deep-dive on complex topics.

Recurring themes include the coming redefinition of human-machine relationships, exploring what it means to be human in a world of machines and algorithms, the future of work and jobs, and the ethics of technology.

As Gerd Leonhard likes to say, humanity will change more in the next 20 years than in the previous 300 years – so let’s maintain and protect what makes us human!

Gerd Leonhard has spent his lifetime  engaging  with change, as a professional artist, internet entrepreneur, and author; now exploring the role of visionary thinker and speaker. His background is in the music business; in 1985 he won Berklee College ‘Quincy Jones Award’ and subsequently spent 12 years working as a professional guitarist, composer and producer.

He is also an influential author and the co-author of the visionary book ‘The Future of Music’ and the author of five other books including his last best-seller, ‘Technology vs. Humanity’, which is now available in ten languages.

Gerd’s films on the future of technology and humanity, digital transformation and artificial intelligence have reached millions of viewers.

He is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA, London) and an advisory board member of the Indian and Canadian Research Institutes.

Gerd Leonhard is a Futurist, Keynote Speaker, Author, Film-Maker and a Humanist. I strive to share foresights and practical wisdoms with my audiences and clients, and focus on actionable observations for the next 5-10 years, in humanity, technology, business and commerce, society and culture.

Since the beginning of the Covid19 crisis a lot of my work has zeroed-in on Post/With-Corona-Future scenarios i.e. the near-future impact of this global crisis on every aspect of our lives. Currently, almost all of my keynotes and conferences are held virtually. Watch my latest videos to see what that looks like, here (LinkedIn Latam event) and here (10 key foresights), and be sure to watch my latest ‘Best of Virtual Keynotes‘ compilation.

He speaks about a wide range of subjects, industries and sectors such as The Future with/after Corona and The Great Transformation, the Future of Technology, Artificial Intelligence (across all industries), Healthcare and Pharma, Banking and Insurance, Policy and Government, Work / Jobs, Learning and Education, Human Resources, Travel and Tourism, Transportation and Mobility.

Gerd Leonhard resides in Zürich, Switzerland and presents both in English and German.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Gerd Leonhard | Technology Futurist

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews yet

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (15)
DJ Scotty B

DJ Scotty B, a celebrated name in the entertainment industry, hails from the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida. With a career spanning over two decades, Scotty B has become synonymous with electrifying performances, seamless event management, and unforgettable musical experiences. His dynamic presence and unparalleled expertise have made him a sought-after figure for corporate events, […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Mobile DJ
  • (15)
Lee Rubin

Lee Rubin is a dynamic keynote speaker, author, and team-building expert who leverages his unique background as a former captain of the Penn State Football Team to inspire and educate organizations on building high-performance teams. With over two decades of experience in leadership development and team dynamics, Lee has become a sought-after speaker for conferences, corporate […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Peak Performance
  • (27)
Seth Mattison

Seth Mattison is a renowned business strategist and keynote speaker who has dedicated nearly two decades to studying business performance, transformation, and leadership within some of the world’s most renowned brands. With a profound understanding of the evolving landscape of work, Seth is on a mission to shape the future of work, making it more […]

  • Travels from: Charlotte, NC
  • Business Speakers
  • (41)
Meridith Elliott Powell

Meridith Elliott Powell is an award-winning author, keynote speaker and business strategist. With a background in corporate leadership and sales, her career expands over several industries including banking, healthcare and finance. Meridith worked her way up from entry-level to earn her position in the C-Suite. She is a member of the Speaker Hall of Fame, […]

  • Travels from: Asheville, NC
  • Sales Speakers
  • (7)
Joe Roberts

Joe Roberts, famously known as “The Skidrow CEO,” has one of the most powerful personal stories in the speaking world. His journey from living on the streets of Vancouver’s skid row to becoming a successful entrepreneur, author, and keynote speaker demonstrates a profound transformation of both character and circumstance. Joe has faced catastrophic failure firsthand, […]

  • Travels from: Vancouver, BC
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (45)
Steve Cortes

A veteran of TV broadcasting, political campaigns, and Wall Street, Steve Cortes brings unique insight into the always-important – and sometimes comical – intersection of media, politics, and money in America. Steve Cortes served as Senior Spokesman and Strategist for the Trump 2016 and 2020 campaigns, including leadership of Hispanic outreach. Steve also worked as […]

  • Travels from: Chattanooga, TN
  • Hispanic Speakers
  • (9)
  • (1)
Simon T. Bailey

Simon T. Bailey is a globally recognized speaker, author, and expert on personal and organizational brilliance. With over two decades of experience, Simon has inspired millions through his dynamic presentations, coaching, and best-selling books. He is a catalyst for positive change, guiding individuals and organizations to discover their inner brilliance and achieve extraordinary success. Simon’s […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (53)
  • Featured
Sarah Dandashy

Sarah Dandashy has earned her reputation as one of the world’s leading concierges, having worked in some of the most prestigious hotels globally. With over 15 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Sarah has been consistently recognized for her ability to deliver unparalleled service and create memorable guest experiences. Her transition into event […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Event Emcee
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel

MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
242526272812345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031123456