Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Michael Abrashoff

Former US Naval Commander, Leadership and Performance Expert, Best Selling Author

Michael Abrashoff Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Former US Naval Commander, Leadership and Performance Expert, Best Selling Author

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Michael Abrashoff
Speaking Fee:
$20,000 to $30,000

Travels From:
MIA - Miami, FL

Primary Topic Category:
Military

Secondary Topic Category:
Leadership and Management

 

Michael Abrashoff Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Mike Abrashoff was the most-junior officer in the Pacific Fleet when he took command of the near-worst performing ship. Twelve months later, the USS Benfold was the best ship in the entire Navy – using the same crew. The story of that stunning transformation has lessons for every organization: leadership matters, and culture is everything. As a keynote speaker, Mike has spoken to every industry and kind of audience, from board retreats to Fortune 500s. He tailors his message to focus on engagement, execution, change, safety, diversity, leadership, teamwork, innovation, accountability and more.

Mike Abrashoff's leadership journey began when he was selected to command the USS Benfold, one of the worst-performing ships in the Pacific Fleet. At the age of 36, he was the most junior commanding officer in the fleet. Faced with low morale and high turnover, Abrashoff knew he had to change the ship’s culture to achieve success. By focusing on his crew’s attitudes and fostering an environment of trust and accountability, he turned the ship around in just 12 months, making it the top-performing ship in the Navy. Abrashoff's approach was centered on replacing traditional command and control leadership with a model that emphasized commitment and cohesion. He believed that by empowering his crew and encouraging ownership, he could unlock their full potential. This philosophy not only transformed the USS Benfold but also became the foundation for his leadership teachings. After leaving the Navy, Abrashoff became a highly sought-after keynote speaker and consultant, working with over 1200 organizations to instill leadership principles at all levels. His story has been featured in major publications like the Wall Street Journal and Fast Company, highlighting the impact of his leadership methods. As a speaker, Abrashoff tailors his message to address a wide range of topics including engagement, execution, change, safety, diversity, leadership, teamwork, innovation, and accountability. His ability to connect with audiences from board retreats to frontline personnel, from sales groups to universities, and from Fortune 500s to startups, has made him a favorite among a diverse array of clients. Abrashoff is also a best-selling author, with his book "It’s Your Ship" providing further insights into his leadership philosophy and the techniques he used to achieve success on the USS Benfold. His practical advice and compelling storytelling continue to inspire leaders worldwide.
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