Bob Judson

Bob Judson is a motivational keynote speaker known for his impressive career in both the Royal Air Force and corporate sectors. Charismatic and impactful, Bob brings nearly 35 years of high-level military experience to his speaking engagements, including his distinguished role as an Air Vice-Marshal and his substantial contributions across 114 operational missions over Iraq and Bosnia. As a seasoned leader, he translates his experiences into powerful, actionable insights for corporate and educational audiences.

Bob’s journey began with a passion for aviation that saw him earn his pilot’s licence even before he could drive. Despite early life challenges, including the loss of his father, Bob excelled academically and attended Christ’s Hospital School in Horsham. Straight after school, he joined the Royal Air Force at 18, quickly proving his skills and commitment. He became a combat-ready pilot on the Jaguar fighter-bomber during the Cold War, with responsibilities that included being on Quick Reaction Alert with a nuclear-armed Jaguar at RAF Brüggen. Bob’s early military career was marked by tenacity and high-pressure decision-making, foundational skills that would propel him through the ranks.

Over his distinguished career, Bob took on numerous command and leadership roles. Rising to the rank of Air Vice-Marshal, Bob served as Commanding Officer of RAF Coningsby and Commander of Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan, where he led multi-national operations in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. Additionally, he held a prestigious assignment as the UK Chief of Defence Staff’s Liaison Officer to the US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon, strengthening international military relations during a critical period. Transitioning to civilian life, he became Director at Deloitte LLP, where he specialised in crisis and resilience consulting. In 2019, he founded Leading 4 Life, a consultancy dedicated to developing resilient, capable leaders in the corporate world.

For audiences seeking a speaker who understands leadership in the highest-stakes environments, Bob is an ideal choice. His topics include navigating today’s hybrid work environments, sustainability, mental health, and the evolving role of AI in leadership. With a track record of commanding respect and admiration, Bob’s authenticity and grounded approach make him a valuable resource for any organisation aiming to empower and inspire its teams to excel under pressure.