Speaking That Moves People to Act
Practical, honest and grounded — not another AI hype talk.
There's no shortage of people talking about AI and leadership right now. Most of it is either terrifying or vague.
I talk about what's actually happening — what AI genuinely means for leaders, teams and organisations — based on real experience implementing it inside a major professional services firm and working with businesses navigating it every day.
Audiences leave with clarity, practical ideas and the confidence to act.
What I Speak About
Getting Unstuck — Leadership in a World That Won't Slow Down
The pressures on modern leaders are unlike anything previous generations faced. This talk explores what it takes to lead with clarity and confidence when everything around you is changing — and how to help the people around you do the same.
The Human Edge — Leading Through AI Adoption
AI isn't coming — it's here. This talk cuts through the noise and focuses on what leaders actually need to know: how to integrate AI without losing what makes their organisation human, and how to build a team that uses it well.
Vision First — Why Strategy Fails and What to Do About It
Most strategic plans fail not because the strategy is wrong, but because they start in the wrong place. This talk introduces the Vision First approach and why beginning with a clear picture of the future changes everything.
Be Better — Practical AI for Professional Services
Developed from pioneering work inside BDO and presented at a global level, this talk is designed specifically for professional services firms navigating AI implementation — practical, grounded and immediately applicable.
Keynotes
High impact sessions from 20 to 60 minutes for conferences, leadership events and professional associations.
Workshops
Half day or full day interactive sessions that go deeper — practical tools your team can use immediately.
Custom Sessions
Every talk tailored to your audience, theme and event context. No generic presentations.
Expertise & Impact
Presenter at BDO Global on AI-enhanced leadership development. Working with leaders, teams and businesses from across the world.
Thanks for an AWESOME set of possibilities!
Justine Bennett
Head of L&D, BDO Global
Available for keynotes, workshops and panel discussions across New Zealand, Australia and internationally.
“Exceptionally grounded. Pete doesn’t just talk about AI; he shows leaders how to navigate transition with practical strategy for the New Zealand landscape.”
Sarah Jenkins
Head of Strategy, Auckland Enterprise
“Pete speaks with the authority of someone implementing AI in the real world. Our executive team left with practical tools and clear confidence to act.”
David Ngata
Director, Wellington Innovation Hub
The Practical Stuff
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Based in New Zealand,
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Formats from 20 minutes to full day workshops
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All talks customised to your audience and event
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Travels for the right events — also available virtually