Former Scotland rugby captain John Barclay has joined the roster of motivational speaker agency Speaker Buzz .
The Edinburgh Rugby flanker will share his experience of transforming toxic team cultures, implementing change, the importance of strong leadership, self-belief, and overcoming adversity with audiences from businesses and organisations in all walks of life.
Edinburgh and London-based Speaker Buzz says it represents a new generation of motivational professionals.
Barclay, who has 76 international caps and has played in three World Cups, was first called up for Scotland at 18, made his debut against New Zealand and dealt with being left out of the squad for two years.
Dad-of-three Barclay, 33, said: “Playing rugby is hugely demanding physically, but as my career has progressed I’ve learned a huge amount about how success is shaped by what happens away from the pitch.
“My experience in the rugby world has showed me the critical importance of establishing strong leadership, values and a positive team culture that allows people to work more effectively together.
“I’ve seen first-hand how changing team culture and implementing new standards can have a massive positive impact on performance and results. While I continue to play for Edinburgh, I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career and sharing my experiences to inspire other people and organisations to fulfil their potential.”
Debbie Byers, founder of Speaker Buzz, said: “John is known in the rugby world as a brave, intelligent and respected leader and I’m very excited and proud to have him join the Speaker Buzz team. I know his inspiring story and his experiences will have a huge positive impact on those who hear his talks.”
Barclay joins a roster including South Pole adventurer Mollie Hughes, plastic pollution campaigner and world-record stand-up paddle-boarder Cal Major and Jonty Evans, the Olympic horse rider who has battled back from a fall which left him in a coma and with a life-threating brain injury.
