Chris Hirst is a recognized change agent. He is an innovative and inspirational leader and speaker. As the former Global CEO of Havas Creative Group and UK CEO of Grey (part of WPP), he has spent over a decade in CEO positions. He has a proven track record of leading successful transformation programs. Under his leadership, his businesses achieved record growth, product reinvention, reputational change, and a culture of lasting success. He is also the founder of Dogsbody Group, a leadership consultancy. In addition, he is a speaker, columnist, and author.
His first book, No Bullsht Leadership* (Profile Books, 2019), has been a No. 1 bestseller for over 36 months and is available worldwide. It won the UK Business Book of the Year award in March 2020. Based on his hard-won experience, this engaging book cuts through the noise surrounding conventional leadership theory. It serves as a proven step-by-step manual on how to lead, making it accessible for anyone.
Filled with universally applicable advice, the book simplifies an over-analyzed subject. It gets to the heart of modern leadership, focusing on the life-changing and career-transforming power to get things done. The Financial Times recommended it as an essential read. Sir Clive Woodward praised it as “a brilliant set of leadership tools that will help you succeed, whatever your goals.”
As Global CEO of Havas Creative Group, Chris led over 10,000 people across all global territories. He transformed the business from an “also ran” to second place in Campaign Magazine’s global rankings in just three years. He oversaw two years of record growth and profits and was shortlisted for Global CEO of the Year in 2022. During his five-year tenure as UK CEO of Grey, the agency more than tripled in size and quadrupled its profits. It became one of the fastest-growing and most creatively respected agencies in the world.
Chris graduated from Brasenose College, Oxford (MEng Engineering Science) and Harvard Business School (Advanced Management Program). He writes a monthly column for Management Today and is the founder of Dogsbody Group Ltd. His No Bullsht Leadership* podcast has garnered over half a million listens. Chris is also a regular commentator in the press and broadcast media.
