WWSG Exclusive
U.S. Secretary of Defense (2019-2020); Secretary of the Army (2017-2019); Corporate Executive (2010-2017); Commissioner, U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (2007-2008); Author, A Sacred Oath; West Point Distinguished Graduate; Currently working in Venture Capital & Private Equity
Dr. Mark Esper is a distinguished global affairs speaker and former U.S. Secretary of Defense with decades of leadership in military strategy, national security, and global risk management. As a senior Pentagon leader and key architect of U.S. defense policy, Dr. Esper brings unparalleled insights on today’s complex geopolitical landscape — from rising tensions with China and Russia to the future of NATO, Indo-Pacific strategy, and defense innovation. His keynotes equip business, government, and military audiences with critical tools for navigating global uncertainty, leadership in crisis, and strategic decision-making.
IntelSat Speaker Sizzle Reel
Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper: The 60 Minutes Interview
Listening to Your People
National Security & China
Leadership & Mark's Path from West Point
In a time of global disruption, smart leadership is more essential than ever. Drawing from decades of experience leading in the Pentagon, on the battlefield, and in the boardroom, Dr. Mark Esper explores how leaders can make clear, ethical, and high-stakes decisions under pressure. He offers actionable frameworks for strategic thinking, risk management, and resilience—lessons that apply equally to CEOs, public officials, and nonprofit executives navigating today’s complex and fast-changing world.
The future of warfare is being shaped by artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and space-based technologies. As a former U.S. Secretary of Defense, Dr. Esper spearheaded efforts to modernize the military and maintain America’s edge in an era of rapid change. In this forward-looking keynote, he examines how emerging technologies are transforming global security — and what lessons private-sector innovators, tech leaders, and policymakers can learn from the defense world’s approach to agility, investment, and innovation.
Secretary Esper was very generous with his time and genuine with his comments to our breakfast group, VIP group, veterans charity reps, and luncheon attendees. It was particularly touching for Secretary Esper to linger after the luncheon to talk one-on-one with our veterans in attendance and take a picture with the assembled group. He was simply phenomenal. We raised [more than our goal] for the direct benefit of our selected veterans charities, thanks in large part to Secretary Esper’s participation.
Texas American Resources Company
Dr. Esper was so extraordinary in terms of his experience, so people listened intently and absorbed the depth of what he was saying. There were several times where the audience erupted into applause. We also really love it when speakers are personable when one on one with our guests. Dr. Esper was terrific that way, too!
New Albany Community Foundation
Mark Esper was GREAT. We love him. I think he’s one of the best (if not the best) speaker we’ve ever had. He is so engaging, and what a nice guy. A+!
Head of Corporate Communications at Top Financial Corporation
The event went extremely well, and Secretary Esper was simply phenomenal. He was very gracious with his time and our veterans were so pleased to have the chance to meet him. Thank you to WWSG so much for all your help!
Communications Manager, AAPL
