A Speaker Who Delivers Evidence, Not Opinions.
Dr. Markus Bernhardt
Keynotes & Executive Briefings on the Future of Work
An Authority for an Age of Overwhelming Change
Event organizers and corporate leaders book Dr. Markus Bernhardt when they need a speaker who can cut through the noise. In a world saturated with generic predictions and vendor promises, Markus delivers a rare and valuable message: one grounded in proof.
Drawing on his acclaimed research and confidential advisory work with global organizations, he demystifies the complex intersection of technology, talent, and transformation. His presentations are not theoretical lectures; they are evidence-based, pragmatic, and designed to equip senior audiences with the clarity and frameworks needed to execute with confidence.
Signature Keynotes & Executive Briefings
The State of Applied Workforce Solutions: Beyond the Promises
Description: This keynote presents the hard-won lessons from the front lines of technology adoption, drawn from the latest research and insights. Markus reveals what separates successful initiatives from costly failures, sharing real-world case studies and data that will change how you see your own transformation journey.
Audience Takeaways:
A clear, evidence-based understanding of what's working right now.
The proprietary Applied Workforce Solutions Navigator™ to diagnose your own strategy.
How to sidestep common pitfalls in technology adoption and investment.
Navigating the Navigator: Four Pathways to Impact
Description: Every organization's path to innovation is different. This session moves beyond one-size-fits-all advice and introduces a powerful framework for choosing the right approach. Markus walks leaders through the four strategic pathways—from accelerating efficiency to creating new capabilities—and shows them how to align their strategy with real-world business impact.
Audience Takeaways:
A proven framework for strategic planning and decision-making.
The ability to benchmark your initiatives against successful archetypes.
A shared language for your leadership team to discuss and execute change.
The Human-Centered Future: Executing in the Digital Age
Description: Technology alone drives nothing; people do. This presentation focuses on the leadership and cultural imperatives for success. Markus explores the practical realities of building an agile, resilient, and human-centered organization, providing actionable strategies for fostering the skills and mindset your teams need to thrive.
Audience Takeaways:
Actionable strategies for building a future-ready work culture.
An understanding of the new leadership capabilities required for the digital age.
How to put people at the center of your technology and transformation strategy.
More Than a Speech: A Strategic Partnership
Engagements are tailored to meet the specific needs of your audience and event. In addition to keynotes, formats include:
Private Executive & Board Briefings: Confidential, deep-dive sessions for your most senior leaders.
Panel Moderation & Facilitation: Expertly guiding conversations to uncover fresh insights.
Event Chairing: Providing a steady, authoritative hand to guide your entire conference or summit.
A Voice Respected by Global Leaders
"It's always a treasured treat to talk and think along with Markus... He is in a unique position to synthesize and so very generous of his time to share and help guide us all."
— Dr. Michael Allen, Chairman and CEO, Allen Interactions
"Markus is at the cutting edge of this field. His unique strength lies in seamlessly blending deep technical expertise...with a pragmatic understanding of organizational realities."
— Joe Leslie, VP, Global AI, L&D, Golin
"Markus...is a beacon of clarity amidst significant noise."
— Marcello Rinaldi, International Learning Director, AbbVie
Markus delivered a keynote presentation on artificial intelligence at the ATD X Wynn Leadership Summit in Macau in April 2025, and his discourse was both intellectually stimulating and highly informative.
He adeptly navigated complex AI concepts and conveyed them with precision, ensuring accessibility to a diverse audience from over 20 countries while maintaining the technical rigor expected by experts in the field. His analysis of AI's trajectory and its implications for leadership was particularly insightful, providing a nuanced understanding of emerging trends and their strategic relevance.
Markus’ profound expertise, coupled with his ability to engage effectively with the audience, distinguished his session as a highlight of the summit. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any speaking engagements related to artificial intelligence.
— Dr. Barry Ip, Vice President - Learning & Advancement, Wynn Macau | Wynn Palace