Key Speakers Bureau
My List0

Scott Kress

Accomplished Mountaineer, Change, Leadership & Team Building Expert

See Similar Speakers ›

Biography

Scott Kress is a highly accomplished leadership and team development trainer, author and keynote speaker. He is also a highly accomplished wilderness guide. He was recently elected to the College of Fellows of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society and is one of only 33 international Polar Guides in the world. He is the President of Summit Team Building and has created highly successful development programs for many of the Fortune 500 companies. Scott has only one goal; to assist teams, leaders, and individuals in reaching their peak performance. This is accomplished through combining the latest team and leadership theory with cutting edge experiential training to create one of the most effective training programs available today. Scott’s team and leadership development programs are custom designed to meet each client’s needs. Years of experience, two undergraduate degrees and a Masters in Leadership and Training provide Scott with unique qualifications to design and deliver some of the most innovative corporate experiential-based training available today. Scott has taught Leadership and High Performance Team Development for some of the world’s leading educational institutions including the Rotman School of Management, the Odette School of Business, and the University of Edinburgh. Scott teaches in the Executive MBA, International Executive MBA, and MBA programs and has received several teaching awards including professor of the year. Some of Scott’s programs focus on; Teambuilding, New Team Formation, High Performance Team Development, Leadership Development, Values and Mission Creation, Communication Enhancement, Change Management, and Process Improvement. Additionally, Scott has gained great insight into the inner workings of leadership and high performance teams through almost 30 years of leading adventure expeditions. He has guided and summitted peaks throughout the world. Scott has stood on the summit of Mount Everest and is one of less than 300 people in the world to climb the 7 summits (the highest mountain on each of the 7 continents). In 2014 he led a group of ill and injured soldiers to the North Pole and in 2016 skied 960km to the South Pole making him one of less than 45 people in the world to accomplish this series of challenges. Through his dynamic background of education, training, experience, and adventure, Scott can help your teams and leaders reach the peak of their performance.

Speech Topics

  • Conquering Everest

    At 8850m Everest is the tallest mountain on earth and one of the most sought after mountaineering goals. Your team will have a chance to embark on a simulated ascent of this extraordinary mountain. Participants will work together to form as a team, to create a vision of success and to make critical decisions that will lead them to the top. This is a highly engaging and interactive team building program with a keynote built in.

  • Achieve the Outrageous

    Never one to be idle, in December of 2016 Scott completed a 1000km unsupported ski to the South Pole. Scott is one of less than 100 people in history to accomplish this journey. Along with this achievement comes a the keynote “Achieve the Outrageous”. In this presentation, Scott will share the story of his punishing 44-day expedition across some of the most hostile ground on the planet. As always, Scott will punctuate this adventure with learning and application. Whereas his Everest presentation “Learning in Thin Air” has a strong team and leadership focus, “Achieve the Outrageous” is aimed at helping the individual within the team perform at their peak. Any company, leadership team, departmental team or individual seeking to achieve a big goal will benefit from this presentation. Scott will share his insights into goal setting, overcoming adversity, perseverance, and so much more.

  • Learning in Thin Air

    What is it that separates success from failure? What allows some leaders and teams to achieve greatness where others stumble? Today’s business environment is more complex than ever and presents a series of mountains, which must all be scaled. While there is always a leader breaking the trail to the top, they cannot do it alone. Great success comes from the synergy of great leadership, teamwork, and personal focus. In Scott’s gripping presentation, you will discover how the many skills used in climbing Mount Everest may be applied to summit your own personal mountains in business and in life. Through inspiring personal stories of triumph, challenge, determination and even failure, Scott shows audiences that we are all climbers of our own mountains. By rising to the challenge of change and continuous improvement, he demonstrates how lessons of life in the mountains are directly applicable to any organization’s challenges. This presentation will focus on building high performance teams, team building, leading teams to high performance and so much more.

  • Keynote Workshop

    Take your next keynote to a higher level. Custom designed for your group, this 3-4 hour workshop takes Scott’s keynote and digs deeper into the content and looks at specific applications. A standard keynote is a one-way presentation, the High Performance Workshop is an interactive discussion. Scott’s highly engaging keynote provides the foundation for this session and the custom designed curriculum is woven throughout. Each workshop is custom designed to focus on your goals and objectives and to achieve your deliverables. How it Works: As Scott shares his story and personal insights he will pause at various points and engage the group in a discussion to dig deeper into the content and to examine how to apply this to their goals, challenges and development. Each workshop is custom designed to focus on your goals and objectives. Using a worksheet, participants will capture their ideas and insights and develop concrete action plans for implementation at work. The Take Away: This presentation format is highly interactive, thus making it engaging and relevant to the participants. They are not simply listening to a story, but they actively participate and apply the presentation content to their real-world goals and challenges. Participants will have time to digest the information provided and to work it into realistic application to help them achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I check Scott Kress's availability or request a quote?
    You can inquire about Scott Kress's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.
  • What is Scott Kress's speaking fee?
    The typical range for Scott Kress's speaking fee is $6,000–$10,500. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Scott Kress to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.
  • What factors influence the speaker's fee?
    Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.
  • Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
    Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.
  • How do I book Scott Kress for my event?
    The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Scott Kress's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.
  • What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
    Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.
  • How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
    When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.
  • What are the payment terms and conditions?
    A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.
  • How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
    It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.
  • Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
    Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.
  • Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
    Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.
  • Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
    Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.
  • Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
    Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.
  • How long is a typical keynote speech?
    The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.
  • Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
    Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.
  • Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
    Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.
  • Why book Scott Kress through Key Speakers?
    We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.

Speakers Like Scott Kress

Robyn Benincasa

Robyn Benincasa


Fee Range: $20,000–$30,000
Travels From: AZ

Rocky Bleier

Rocky Bleier

Legendary member of the four-time World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, Rocky Bleier is one of America's most courageous sportsmen. Crippled by enemy fire during the Vietnam conflict, he fought overwhelming odds and demonstrated the courage and determination to overcome his injuries, becoming one of the NFL's premier running backs. His remarkable story became the subject of the book, Fighting Back, which was recreated in the 1980 ABC-TV movie of the same name. In his presentations, he motivates audiences to keep on striving for greater accomplishments, employing a dynamic style with real-life stories and an appropriate injection of humor.


Fee Range: $7,000–$11,000
Travels From: PA

Alex Weber

Alex Weber


Fee Range: $7,500–$15,000
Travels From: TX

Waldo Waldman

Waldo Waldman

Known as “The Wingman,” Lt Col Waldo Waldman, MBA, CSP, CPAE is a highly decorated combat fighter pilot with 65 missions in Iraq and Serbia. A business consultant and executive coach, he helps organizations build collaborative cultures of trust, courage and commitment in highly competitive, rapidly changing business environments.


Fee Range: $25,000–$35,000
Travels From: GA

Check Scott Kress’s Availability

Tell us about your event and we’ll be in touch shortly.