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Former Defense Secretary & CIA leader

Robert Gates

Transform leadership and security strategy with Robert Gates, former U.S. Secretary of Defense and geopolitical expert. Robert equips organizations with crisis decision-making frameworks and organizational change strategies, drawing from his cross-partisan leadership experience at the CIA, Pentagon, and Texas A&M University.

Trusted by CIA, Pentagon, Texas A&M University

Robert M. Gates, Speaker | Defense & Intel Expert
Robert Gates

Robert Gates

Seattle, United States

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This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Seattle, United States

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Robert Gates's biography

At a glance

  • Former US Secretary of Defense serving two administrations
  • CIA Director with extensive intelligence career
  • Former President of Texas A&M University
Robert M. Gates brings insights into global security and leadership drawn from his tenure as U.S. Secretary of Defense under both Republican and Democratic administrations. As the former Secretary of Defense (2006-2011), CIA Director, and President of Texas A&M University, Gates has navigated complex international challenges at the highest levels of government and academia. His 26-year intelligence career provides him with rare perspective on global security landscapes and institutional leadership. Gates offers organizations practical strategies for navigating geopolitical uncertainty and institutional transformation. Drawing from his experience managing the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, he illuminates how leaders can make consequential decisions amid competing priorities and limited information. His cross-partisan approach demonstrates how to build consensus and implement change in polarized environments. Audiences gain actionable frameworks for strategic decision-making during crisis situations, practical approaches to leading organizational change across resistant bureaucracies, and insights into global security trends that impact business planning and risk management. Book Robert Gates for a rare opportunity to learn from someone who has successfully led complex organizations through the most challenging global security environments of our time.

Topics, sessions and talks

Leading Through Change: A Fireside Chat With Robert Gates
Robert Gates discusses Russia's invasion of Ukraine, leading through change, and partisan politics. Talks are designed to resonate with diverse audiences, offering insights into current events and policy.
Insights And Pragmatism: Robert M. Gates On National Security
Experience the unique insights and pragmatic approach of Robert M. Gates, former United States Secretary of Defense, in a captivating keynote talk. Gain valuable perspectives on foreign policy, national security, and international relations, as Gates shares his expertise and critiques both political parties. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of America's longest-serving defense secretaries.

Why we recommend booking Robert

Robert Gates, former US Secretary of Defense and CIA Director, delivers unparalleled insights on global security, strategic decision-making, and leading organizational change drawn from his cross-partisan government experience. Book this exceptional leader to equip your team with actionable frameworks for navigating geopolitical uncertainty and implementing transformation in challenging environments.

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Trusted by CIA, Pentagon, Texas A&M University

Testimonials

Robert Gates was a great speaker and a very engaging individual. We certainly recommend him for any occasion. Our audience loved him, and he was a real hit at the VIP dinner.

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Robert Gates for my next event?
Email robert.gates@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 Robert'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.
What is Robert Gates's speaking style like?
Robert delivers clear, actionable insights on global security and leadership, drawing from high-level government experience. His practical strategies help organisations navigate uncertainty, build consensus, and lead change in complex environments.
What topics does Robert Gates specialise in?
Robert Gates specialises in discussing national security, defense policy, leadership and more.
What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

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Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

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