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

  • (33)
Amy Van Dyken - Image 04 (March 3, 2026)

Amy Van Dyken-Rouen’s journey from Olympic glory to overcoming personal adversity stands as a testament to resilience and determination. As a six-time Olympic gold medalist, she made history at the 1996 Atlanta Games by becoming the first American woman to secure four gold medals in a single Olympiad. Beyond her athletic achievements, Amy’s life took […]

  • Travels from: Phoenix, AZ
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (21)
Ramsey Bergeron

A natural born storyteller, Ramsey Bergeron uses examples from his life (including dropping out of an Ironman race, a 10-day silent meditation experience, and the loss of his father and best friend) to illustrate that it’s not what happens to us, but how we react that determines our legacy. He connects to his audience using […]

  • Travels from: Scottsdale, AZ
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (8)
Walking Tables - Image 08 (January 20, 2026)

Cirque Mirage, LLC LED Strolling Walking Tables is perfect for a welcome cocktail or appetizers. This act can roam around your event. Each performer can have a custom costume to go with your special theme. Great for almost every theme some of our favorites are Space, Black tie Las Vegas, Glow Party, Birthdays. Transform your […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Speciality Acts
  • (27)
Kien Vuu, MD - Image 05 (January 27, 2026)

Kien Vuu, MD, popularly known as Doctor V is an assistant professor of Health Sciences at UCLA, speaker, media expert, founder of VuuMD Performance and Longevity, and best-selling author of Thrive State: Your Blueprint for Optimal Health, Longevity, and Peak Performance. Dr. V has been practicing medicine for over 14 years and combines his knowledge […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Healthcare Speakers
  • (185)

David Goggins is a Retired Navy SEAL and is the only member of the U.S. Armed Forces to complete SEAL training (including two Hell Weeks), the U.S. Army Ranger School (where he graduated as Enlisted Honor Man) and Air Force Tactical Air Controller training. An accomplished endurance athlete, Goggins has completed over 60 ultra-marathons, triathlons, […]

  • Travels from: Nashville, TN
  • Adventure Speakers
  • (55)
  • (4)
Mel Robbins - Image 14 (April 1, 2026)

Mel Robbins stands as one of the most influential figures in the realm of personal development, renowned globally for her transformative insights and empowering message. As both a celebrated podcast host and bestselling author, Mel has inspired millions to overcome obstacles, unlock their full potential, and create meaningful change in their lives. Mel Robbins is […]

  • Travels from: Boston, MA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (3)
Aqualillies

Aqualillies is the world’s most glamorous water entertainment company, reinventing the classic art form for the new millennium. Diving off the pages of Vogue, Marie Claire and The New York Times, Aqualillies has become synonymous with beauty, sophistication, luxury, and style. In front of the camera or at live events for clients such as the […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Water Performers
  • (41)
Ruben Gonzalez

A seemingly “ordinary guy,” Ruben Gonzalez wasn’t a gifted athlete. He didn’t take up the sport of luge until he was 21. Against all odds, four years later he was competing in the Winter Olympics. At the age of 47 he was racing against 20-year-olds in the Vancouver Winter Olympics! Ruben speaks from Olympic experience. […]

  • Travels from: Colorado Springs, CO
  • Motivational 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.