Book Riaz Shah for your event
Riaz Shah is a globally recognized expert in innovation, leadership, and business transformation. With more than three decades of experience guiding organizations through periods of disruption and change, he delivers keynotes that equip leaders with the mindset, strategies, and tools needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
Known for his ability to combine strategic thinking with practical business experience, Riaz speaks on topics including leadership development, digital disruption, innovation, workforce transformation, and global megatrends. His presentations are insightful, engaging, and highly relevant for organizations looking to future-proof their business and develop agile leadership cultures.
Riaz’s extensive international experience gives him a unique perspective on the challenges facing modern organizations. He works with senior leaders and executives to help them understand how emerging technologies, shifting workforce expectations, and global transformation are reshaping industries across the world.
A distinguished career at EY
Riaz Shah spent 27 years as a Partner at EY, where he held several major leadership positions that shaped both the organization and its global workforce. During his time at the firm, he served as Global Learning Leader and Managing Partner of London Assurance, contributing significantly to EY’s leadership in quality assurance, education, and technology consulting.
One of his most impactful contributions was his work in transforming learning and talent development across EY’s global organization of more than 400,000 employees. Riaz played a central role in preparing professionals for the future of work by helping redesign learning experiences and leadership development initiatives on a global scale.
He was also instrumental in launching the EY Tech MBA, an innovative program created to equip employees with future-focused capabilities in technology, leadership, and business transformation. This initiative empowered thousands of professionals to strengthen their skills and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving business environment.
Through his leadership at EY, Riaz developed a deep understanding of how organizations can successfully adapt to disruption while maintaining strong cultures, developing talent, and driving sustainable growth.
Innovation and leadership in a changing world
Today’s business landscape is evolving faster than ever before. Organizations face constant disruption from technological advances, shifting customer expectations, changing workforce dynamics, and global uncertainty. Riaz Shah helps leaders understand these forces and turn complexity into opportunity.
As Professor of Practice for Innovation & Leadership at Hult International Business School, Riaz works closely with executives and senior leaders from around the world. He helps organizations navigate digital disruption, understand global megatrends, and develop leadership strategies suited for the future.
His keynote presentations explore how businesses can:
- Build cultures that encourage innovation and adaptability
- Lead effectively during uncertainty and rapid change
- Develop future-ready talent and leadership capabilities
- Understand the impact of emerging technologies and AI
- Create sustainable growth strategies in evolving markets
- Strengthen organizational agility and resilience
Riaz combines global business insights with practical leadership lessons, making his presentations highly actionable for executive audiences, leadership teams, and organizations undergoing transformation.
An inspiring and forward-thinking keynote speaker
Riaz Shah is known for delivering keynote presentations that are both thought-provoking and highly relevant to modern business challenges. His speaking style combines strategic insight, real-world leadership experience, and engaging storytelling, creating sessions that resonate with audiences across industries.
Whether addressing senior executives, leadership teams, or global conferences, Riaz challenges organizations to rethink traditional approaches to leadership and innovation. He provides audiences with fresh perspectives on how businesses can remain competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing world.
His expertise spans industries and sectors, making him a sought-after speaker for conferences, leadership summits, corporate events, and executive education programs.
Recognized for impact and leadership
Riaz Shah’s contributions to business, education, and leadership development have been widely recognized throughout his career. In 2023, he was awarded an OBE for Services to Education by HM King Charles III, recognizing his outstanding impact on learning, talent development, and the future of education.
This recognition reflects not only his achievements within global business, but also his dedication to helping individuals and organizations prepare for the future. His work continues to influence how companies approach innovation, leadership, and workforce transformation on an international scale.
Organizations booking Riaz Shah gain access to a speaker who combines deep executive experience with a forward-looking understanding of business transformation. His ability to connect leadership, innovation, and future trends makes him a valuable voice for companies seeking inspiration, strategic direction, and practical insights for the future.