John Amaechi

John Amaechi OBE is a renowned organisational psychologist, New York Times Best-Selling Author, and Founder of APS Intelligence, a consultancy that empowers organisations to create psychologically safe, inclusive, and high-performing cultures. Deeply motivated by a lifelong commitment to equity, John is a powerful advocate for racial equality, drawing from both lived experience and academic rigour. He challenges systemic bias and encourages individuals and institutions to move beyond performative allyship. A captivating keynote speaker, John covers topics including inclusion, leadership, future of work, change management, and high-performance coaching – always tying these themes back to the importance of anti-racist practices and genuine inclusion.

John’s path to becoming a leading voice in equality and leadership was anything but conventional. After first picking up a basketball at 17, he carved out a successful NBA career, playing for teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, and Utah Jazz. At the same time, he pursued academic studies, earning a degree in psychology and eventually becoming a qualified psychologist. His unique blend of elite athletic performance and deep psychological insight laid the groundwork for his future as a trusted adviser to major global brands, public sector institutions, and leadership teams navigating complex cultural change.

In recognition of his work, John was appointed an OBE in 2011 for services to sport and the voluntary sector. In 2022, he was inducted into HR Magazine’s Hall of Fame, celebrating his influence on workplace culture and leadership. His books – Man in the Middle, a memoir highlighting his journey as the first openly gay NBA player, and The Promises of Giants, a best-seller that challenges leaders to act with purpose and courage – further cement his voice as a leading authority on inclusive leadership and identity.

John’s speaking engagements are known for being unapologetically direct, intellectually rich, and emotionally resonant. He doesn’t just speak about inclusion and leadership – he reframes them through a racial equity lens, helping audiences confront uncomfortable truths and commit to meaningful change. His future of work and change management talks explore how to build equitable workplaces amid constant disruption, while his high-performance coaching sessions drive accountability and transformation. Organisations seeking lasting cultural impact hire John not just for inspiration, but for his ability to provoke, educate, and equip leaders to lead inclusively.