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Strengthen strategic leadership with James N. Mattis, speaker and former U.S. Secretary of Defense. James works with organizations to develop crisis management, build strategic alliances, and enhance military readiness, delivering proven insights from commanding forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, and leading Pentagon operations.


James N. Mattis, born on 8 September 1950 in Pullman, Washington, is a retired United States Marine Corps General and former U.S. Secretary of Defense. Renowned for his strategic insight and leadership, Mattis has a wealth of experience in military operations and global security. His career in the Marine Corps saw him command forces in significant conflicts, including the Persian Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq, where his decisions and leadership were pivotal. During his tenure as the U.S. Secretary of Defense from January 2017 to December 2018, Mattis focused on strengthening international alliances and enhancing military readiness. His approach to defence policy was marked by a commitment to collaboration and preparedness, which earned him respect both domestically and internationally. Mattis's emphasis on alliances underscored his belief in the importance of collective security and cooperation in addressing global threats. Beyond his military and governmental roles, Mattis is an advocate for intellectual development within the armed forces. He is an avid reader and has shared reading lists to inspire military personnel to engage with diverse perspectives and ideas. This commitment to continuous learning and intellectual growth is a testament to his belief in the power of knowledge and strategic thinking. In his public speaking engagements, Mattis offers valuable insights into leadership, strategy, and the complexities of global security challenges. His experiences provide a unique perspective on the intricacies of international relations and defence strategy. Mattis's ability to distil complex issues into understandable concepts makes his talks both informative and engaging. James Mattis's career and thoughtful approach to leadership and strategy make him a compelling speaker for those interested in understanding the dynamics of global security and the importance of strategic alliances. His insights are particularly relevant in today's rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
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frequently asked questions
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Email james.n.mattis@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm James's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
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Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.
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