Sheryl Connelly

Futurist • Strategist • Global Consumer Trends Authority • Former Chief Futurist, Ford Motor Company

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In-Person Fee Range:

$30,001 - $50,000

Fee Details

Virtual Fee Range:

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Traveling from:

Michigan

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Topics

Business Transformation/Change Management Future of Work Digital Transformation Business Speakers Generational Diversity Innovation & Creativity Business Growth Consumer Behavior Disruption Innovation Speakers Creativity Speakers Artificial Intelligence (AI) Speakers Virtual Keynote Speakers

Sheryl Connelly

Futurist • Strategist • Global Consumer Trends Authority • Former Chief Futurist, Ford Motor Company

Add To My Favorites Check Fee/Availability

In-Person Fee Range:

$30,001 - $50,000

Fee Details

Virtual Fee Range:

Inquire for Fee

Traveling from:

Michigan

Why Book

Leading global consumer trends expert
Named one of the “100 Most Creative People in Business” by Fast Company magazine twice and listed among TechWeek’s “Top 100 Innovators”
Helps business leaders to think like a futurist to effectively track, analyze, and predict how global consumer and lifestyle trends will impact organizations across industries

Biography

When global leaders seek clarity on what’s coming next – and how to turn disruption into opportunity – they call on Sheryl Connelly. From 2004 to 2023, she served as Chief Futurist and Global Consumer Trend Expert at Ford Motor Company, steering strategic foresight that shaped product, marketing, and corporate planning. While at Ford, Connelly served as a member of the Global Advisory Council on transportation for the World Economic Forum, she taught design research at the Center for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan, and been a guest lecturer at several universities including MIT, the University of Michigan, and Wharton School of Business.

Since leaving Ford, Sheryl has:

Delivered keynotes around the world – from boardrooms to global leadership summits – helping organizations transform uncertainty into opportunity.
Designed and led interactive workshops that go beyond theory – facilitating immersive activities, small group discussions, and breakout sessions giving participants real time applications and actionable takeaways.
Advised companies across industries on strategic clarity and innovation.
Served on multiple boards contributing expertise in long-term thinking, scenario planning, and governance.

Named one of Forbest’ Most Influential Female Futurists, Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business, and TechWeek’s Top 100 Innovators, her ideas and insights have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Reuters, The Financial Times, The Economist, and the BBC; she has graced the stages of TED and TED Global; and appeared on CBS This Morning, CNBC, and NPR.

Programs

How to Think Like a Futurist

Embark on an illuminating journey into Artificial Intelligence in “Decoding AI.” Uncover the marvels that propel innovation, confront the challenges that demand our attention, and embrace the responsibilities inherent in the AI landscape. This presentation intricately weaves positive transformations, ethical considerations, and strategic insights to provide a comprehensive guide for business leaders navigating the complexities of AI adoption. Join us as we decode the nuances, balancing the allure of innovation with the practical considerations that define responsible AI leadership.

The ABCs of Generations X, Y, Z and Alpha

Immerse yourself on a compelling exploration of generational cohorts with “The ABCs of Generations X, Y, and Z.” Uncover the distinct characteristics of each generation—X’s resilience, Y’s tech-savviness, and Z’s COVID kids and Gen Alpha’s digital immersion. Explore why business leaders should care as we decode the impact of generational traits on
consumer behavior, workplace dynamics, and market trends. Gain valuable insights that will empower leaders to tailor strategies, foster inclusive environments, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Join us for a journey
through the ABCs that hold the keys to understanding and engaging diverse generations for business success.

A Master Class on Strategic Vision

Sheryl Connelly, former Chief Futurist of Ford Motor Company, unveils the secrets of thinking like a futurist. In this captivating session, Sheryl will share her unparalleled expertise in anticipating trends, identifying opportunities, and navigating uncertainty. Learn to embrace a futurist mindset, gaining insights into strategic foresight, scenario planning, and the art of connecting seemingly disparate dots. Discover why business leaders, innovators, and decision-makers should adopt a futurist lens to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Topics

Business Transformation/Change Management, Future of Work, Digital Transformation, Business Speakers, Generational Diversity, Innovation & Creativity, Business Growth, Consumer Behavior, Disruption, Innovation Speakers, Creativity Speakers, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Speakers, Virtual Keynote Speakers,

Sheryl Connelly Reviews

“Sheryl was an absolute delight to work with and her presentation was the highlight of our conference. The way she’s able to tell a story based on research and recent data and challenge the audience to shift their way of thinking in just brilliant. Moreover, she was personable and completely relatable before and after her actual presentation. I would love to have bought her a drink and chatted for longer!”

— VP of Marketing, Green Mountain Technology

Sheryl’s captivating presence on stage is matched only by her ability to distill complex global trends into practical and actionable insights. Her visually compelling presentations draw audiences in, while her exceptional expertise in long-term thinking and strategic planning leaves a lasting impact.

— Head of Marketing, State Farm Insurance

“If you are looking for a speaker who can look into the future and relate it to the past, truly bring your audience along for the ride in an enjoyable, thought provoking and humorous way and give them much to talk about during their networking and
when they get back to their home or office, Sheryl Connelly is it! She is engaging, honest, genuine and thoughtful in her
presentations and she tailors the message to the attendees. She has a way to connect with her audience and truly start a
conversation.”

— EVP of Marketing and Partnerships, Northstar Travel Group

“Sheryl Connelly was an absolute powerhouse at our A10 Connect Program! She brought the perfect mix of insight and
charm, delivering actionable takeaways that our audience could put to work right away. The fireside chat with our EVP of Sales Marketing? Pure gold. Sheryl didn’t just speak to the room – she electrified it!”

— Sr. Director AMS Marketing, A10

“In the 25 years of selecting speakers for the WSADA annual convention. I remember the standouts. Those who not only met
my expectations but exceeded them. Sheryl Connelly hit a home run and left the audience wanting much more. She excels as
a futurist, giving a presentation that is an invigorating mix of prescient, relevant, cogent, and practical advise – laced with
humor. The Association has asked only a handful of speakers to return. Sheryl Connelly has an open invitation.”

— Executive Vice President, Washington State Auto Dealers Association

“I have had the wonderful opportunity to collaborate with Sheryl Connelly when I was CEO of the American Society of
Interior Designers. Sheryl was our keynote speaker at GATHER our national conference in Miami, Florida. Her presentation
was exceptional. So good that she received a standing ovation from three thousand attendees! Her insights and understanding
of how to open one’s thinking to new opportunities in the future are remarkable. She challenges, questions, enlightens and
encourages her audience to open their minds and see possibilities. Perfect!”

— American Society of Interior Designers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Sheryl Connelly and what is she known for?

Sheryl Connelly is a global futurist, trends expert, and innovation strategist exclusively represented by Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau. She served as Chief Futurist at Ford Motor Company for over 20 years, leading trend research that shaped product development and corporate strategy. She has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and CNN for her insights on consumer trends and the future.

2. What topics does Sheryl Connelly speak about?

Sheryl Connelly delivers keynotes on future trends, consumer behavior, innovation strategy, and preparing organizations for change. Her programs share insights from her decades of trend forecasting at Ford, helping audiences understand emerging forces and position their organizations for future success.

3. What makes Sheryl Connelly different from other futurist speakers?

What sets Sheryl apart is her 20+ years as Chief Futurist at one of the world's largest companies. She was not predicting trends from the sidelines; she was using trend research to influence billion-dollar product decisions at Ford. Her insights are battle- tested in one of the most competitive industries in the world.

4. What types of events does Sheryl Connelly speak to?

Sheryl Connelly speaks at corporate conferences, strategy retreats, innovation summits, and association meetings. Her audiences have included organizations seeking to understand future consumer behavior, anticipate market changes, and build innovation capabilities.

5. Is Sheryl Connelly available for virtual keynotes?

Yes. Sheryl Connelly is available for both in-person and virtual keynote presentations. Her research-rich presentations and engaging delivery translate effectively to virtual formats.

6. What is Sheryl Connelly's speaking fee?

Sheryl Connelly’s speaking fee varies depending on the event format, location, and specific requirements. To get an exact quote, contact Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau by calling 973-313-9800, emailing info@eaglestalent.com, or completing the Check Availability form on her profile page.

7. What trends does Sheryl Connelly focus on?

Sheryl focuses on macro trends affecting consumer behavior, technology adoption,
sustainability, mobility, and societal change. Her research examines the forces
reshaping how people live, work, and make decisions, providing organizations with actionable insights for strategic planning.

8. How do I book Sheryl Connelly for my event?

Sheryl Connelly is exclusively represented by Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau. To
check her availability or request a quote, call 973-313-9800, email
info@eaglestalent.com, or visit her speaker profile at EaglesTalent.com and complete the booking inquiry form.