Elaine Chao
Governor of North Carolina (2013 – 2017)
Governor Pat McCrory brings audiences firsthand insight into the challenges shaping today’s political, economic, and business landscape. Drawing on decades of executive leadership in both the public and private sectors, he delivers practical lessons on bipartisan leadership, infrastructure, economic growth, crisis management, and navigating change—equipping organizations with strategies they can apply long after the event.
Everyone talks about wanting a strong leader, but few have detailed the steps necessary for becoming a transformational leader and the many pitfalls to avoid.
As both a governor and a mayor, Pat McCrory has tackled some of the greatest challenges of our time, including 9-11, wildfires, hurricanes, riots and other natural and man-made emergencies. He has also exerted his leadership skills to help find common-sense solutions to controversial policy issues such as comprehensive tax reform, health care reform, social issues, ballot referendums, major infrastructure investments and Supreme Court challenges, all while managing massive budgets and thousands of employees. Throughout his career in public service, Pat has had the benefit of working with four presidents, top business leaders, community activists, senators and congressman, governors and mayors, and the ever-changing national media. He has experienced and seen both successes and failures.
In this series, Pat shares leadership lessons based on extensive personal experience and interaction with other great leaders of our time, including former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Presidents Obama and Trump, Michael Jordan and Billy Graham. Lessons learned on what traits work and those that do not.
As a city councilman, mayor, and governor for more than 25 years, Pat McCrory has witnessed business leaders, vendors, non-profits, lobbyists and everyday citizens trying to figure out ways to get the ear of politicians and those government employees on pressing issues. Frustrating delays, no returned calls, inaction, arrogance and rudeness are the pains many deal with when action is needed.
Pat shares strategies that actually break down the barriers of government and politics. You will save time and money getting specific tips that work from a leader who understands the fragile mind and ego of politicians at the local, state and federal levels.
Governor Pat McCrory first gained national prominence during his seven terms as mayor of Charlotte, where he helped transform the city into one of America’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas. His vision for the city included expanding Charlotte Douglas International Airport, developing a new NBA arena, establishing the NASCAR Hall of Fame, investing in mass transit, creating safe and livable public housing communities, recruiting new businesses, and maintaining a low-tax environment. Known for working across party lines and challenging conventional thinking, McCrory earned a reputation for pragmatic leadership focused on long-term growth and economic competitiveness.
As Governor of North Carolina, McCrory led initiatives that included comprehensive tax reform, transportation reform, teacher pay raises, repayment of federal unemployment insurance debt, and a statewide bond referendum supporting universities, state parks, and the North Carolina National Guard. During his administration, more than 300,000 private-sector jobs were created, contributing to an economic resurgence widely referred to as the “Carolina Comeback.” His leadership also received national recognition for overseeing North Carolina’s response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Matthew, one of the state’s most devastating natural disasters.
Throughout his career, Governor McCrory has worked with Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump on issues including homeland security, transportation, environmental policy, and healthcare. He has also served in leadership roles with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National Governors Association. Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, President George W. Bush appointed McCrory to serve on a national homeland security advisory commission, where he helped shape recommendations to strengthen the nation’s preparedness and security.
In addition to his public service, Governor McCrory has held leadership positions in the private sector with Duke Energy and the law firm Moore & Van Allen. He has also served on the boards of companies including LendingTree, Kewaunee Scientific, and Transportation Impact, providing strategic guidance on business growth, governance, and economic development.
Governor McCrory has testified before Congress and continues to be a frequent guest on national media programs, including NPR, Meet the Press, ABC World News Tonight, PBS NewsHour, CBS Mornings, CNN, CNBC, Fox News, and MSNBC, where he provides commentary on politics, public policy, infrastructure, and economic issues.
Recognized for his practical approach to leadership, Governor McCrory has built a career navigating complex public policy challenges at the local, state, and national levels. His firsthand experience leading through economic transformation, infrastructure expansion, natural disasters, and bipartisan negotiations provides valuable perspective on today’s most pressing issues, including economic growth, workforce development, healthcare, energy, transportation, and government reform.
As a keynote speaker, Governor McCrory offers audiences an insider’s perspective on leadership, public policy, and the intersection of government and business. Drawing on decades of executive experience in both the public and private sectors, he delivers engaging, candid presentations that combine practical lessons with real-world stories. Whether speaking to corporate leaders, industry associations, universities, or civic organizations, Governor McCrory equips audiences with actionable insights on leading through change, fostering economic growth, and navigating today’s evolving political and business landscape.
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Newt Gingrich, Distinguished Leader, Visionary, & Political Vanguard; 2012 Republican Presidential Candidate; Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (1995-1999); Best-Selling Author
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American Property Casualty Insurance Association
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Financial Horizons