Libby Schaaf: Former Mayor of Oakland

Leadership keynote speaker Libby Schaaf shares insights on urban innovation, economic development, and inclusive leadership, helping organizations navigate change and build resilient, community-focused growth strategies.

  • Highlights:
    • Former Mayor of Oakland
    • Leader in economic development and urban innovation
    • Advocate for inclusive growth and community-driven leadership
    • Experience working across government, business, and technology sectors
  • Formats:

    Keynote Speaker, Leadership Speaker, Urban Innovation Expert

  • Audiences:

    Corporate leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and organizations focused on innovation, economic development, and inclusive growth.

  • Outcomes:
    • Insights into leading through complexity and rapid change
    • Strategies for balancing innovation with community impact
    • Practical lessons on inclusive leadership and economic growth
Reading time: 1 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Oakland, CA
  • **Fee range: On Request

Keynote Topics

Leadership & Governance

  • Leading Through Complexity: Decision-Making in High-Stakes Environments
  • Public Leadership Lessons for Private Sector Success
  • Building Trust and Accountability in Leadership

Innovation & Future of Cities

  • The Future of Cities: Where Technology Meets Community
  • Smart Cities and Human-Centered Innovation
  • How Urban Innovation Drives Economic Growth

Economic Development

  • Inclusive Growth: Building Economies That Work for Everyone
  • Supporting Entrepreneurship in Rapidly Changing Markets
  • Public-Private Partnerships That Drive Real Impact

Equity & Community Impact

  • Balancing Innovation with Social Responsibility
  • Equity in Action: Turning Policy into Measurable Outcomes
  • Community-Driven Leadership in a Divided World

Talent Short Bio

Libby Schaaf is a respected public leader, keynote speaker, and former Mayor of Oakland known for her work in driving economic development, fostering innovation, and advancing inclusive growth. During her tenure, she positioned Oakland as a hub where technology, entrepreneurship, and community impact intersect.

Libby’s leadership focused on creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike, supporting startups and local entrepreneurs while ensuring that growth remained equitable and community-centered. Her approach reflects a deep understanding of how cities can evolve alongside rapid technological change without losing sight of social responsibility.

With experience navigating complex challenges in one of the most dynamic regions in the United States, Libby brings practical insight into leadership, policy, and innovation. She has worked closely with business leaders, policymakers, and community organizations, giving her a well-rounded perspective on how to drive sustainable progress.

Libby Schaaf is a respected leader and former Mayor of Oakland, known for her work in economic development, urban innovation, and community-driven leadership.

During her time in office, she focused on building inclusive growth, supporting entrepreneurship, and strengthening the connection between technology and community impact in the Bay Area. Her leadership reflects a forward-thinking approach to how cities can evolve alongside innovation while maintaining strong social foundations.

As a speaker, Mayor Libby Schaaf brings authenticity, insight, and a deep understanding of how leadership, policy, and technology intersect. She connects strongly with audiences by sharing real-world experiences and practical lessons on leading through complexity and change.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on  LinkedIn

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

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.

  • 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!

View further speakers

  • (45)
Nora Ali

Nora Ali is a dynamic event moderator and emcee, celebrated for her versatility, professionalism, and ability to create engaging and seamless experiences for audiences across the globe. With a strong background in journalism, business, and media, Nora brings a wealth of knowledge to every event she moderates, ensuring that panels, discussions, and keynote presentations run […]

  • Travels from: Manhattan, NY
  • Business Emcees
  • (20)
  • (10)
David Allison

David Allison is a distinguished figure in the realm of human values, a global researcher, and a best-selling author, whose mission revolves around reshaping our comprehension of human behavior and interaction. With a rich and diverse career traversing marketing, research, and prolific authorship, David has left an indelible mark by introducing human values as a […]

  • Travels from: Vancouver, BC
  • Human Values
  • (31)
  • (3)
Mark Black - Image 05 (February 13, 2026)

Mark Black is a renowned resilience expert whose life story is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and the human spirit. Born with a life-threatening heart defect, Mark faced insurmountable odds from the very beginning. He underwent two open-heart surgeries before his first birthday, setting the stage for a life marked by extraordinary […]

  • Travels from: Dieppe, New Brunswick
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (8)
Ryan Holiday: Marketing Expert

Few writers have done more to bring ancient, timeless wisdom and cutting-edge marketing strategies together than Ryan Holiday. His philosophically driven bestselling books have sold over 10 million copies and spent more than 200 weeks on bestseller lists. His books are taught in colleges and marketing programs around the world, including Trust Me I’m Lying, […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Marketing Speakers
  • (7)

Graham Fink is a world-renowned creative mind known for his groundbreaking work in advertising, art, and technology. As one of the most awarded creatives globally, Fink has transformed disciplines such as photography, film, painting, and drawing, merging these fields with advanced technology. His multidisciplinary approach and relentless pursuit of new creative frontiers have redefined creativity […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Creativity Speakers
  • (18)

Tim Ferriss is a globally recognized thought leader in productivity, personal growth, and lifestyle design. As the author of five #1 New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers including The 4-Hour Workweek, Tools of Titans, and Tribe of Mentors, his books have sold millions of copies and been translated into over 40 languages. Renowned […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (15)
Abigail Posner - Image 04 (March 4, 2026)

Abigail Posner is a multi-talented professional, combining creativity, intellect, and innovation into her work. With a rich background in various fields and a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and creativity, she has become a recognized figure at Google, consistently pushing the boundaries of brand marketing. Posner’s journey began with a solid academic foundation. […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Marketing Speakers
  • (36)
  • (3)
Mercedes Ramirez Johnson

In 1995, Mercedes Ramirez Johnson narrowly survived a commercial airplane crash that killed 160 people, including her parents. As one of only four survivors of this tragedy, she vowed that she would make her second chance at life count…and that she has – not only for herself, but also for the tens of thousands of […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Hispanic Speakers
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 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.