The DEI Problem
I help audiences transform DEI from an often dry corporate policy into a compelling human narrative, emphasising its profound impact on mental health, stress, performance, and ultimately, the organisation’s bottom line.
Credibility
As one of the first openly gay pilots in the UK Royal Air Force, I lived and worked in a hostile environment where being gay could have led to imprisonment. Not being my authentic self for over 6 years profoundly effected my performance in high g-force air combat situations. I also witnessed the profound cultural shift after the ban was lifted, experiencing exceptional inclusive leadership, allyship, and support as the Royal Air Force rapidly evolved
Future Transformation
Through my powerful personal story, I provide a thought-provoking example that leaves audiences with practical strategies for cultivating empathy, inclusive leadership, and allyship within a corporate environment.
Watch Matts Keynote below:
Airline and former Royal Air Force pilot Matt Lindley talks candidly about being one of the first openly gay pilots in the UK Armed Forces. Listen to his journey of having a childhood dream to fly, almost crushed by a ban on gay serving personnel in the Forces. Matt describes how he consciously suppressed his sexuality and joined an organisation knowing that being 'out' could have resulted in a possible prison sentence (The Armed Forces Act). His story is one of self-motivation, determination, and drive. Matt fulfilled a boyhood dream and qualified as a Hawk fast jet pilot however soon after, high workload, geographical isolation and operating in a non inclusive culture, resulted in a catastrophic mistake at work.
Matt draws on his knowledge of human performance factors and psychology to self analyse the impact of mental health and stress on his performance at work and wellbeing. Listen to the importance of allies and the role of an inspiring inclusive line manager on Matts ultimate success in the Armed Forces.
But this is not just another 'coming out story', instead Matt uses his experience to discuss how the RAF positively adapted its culture from one of open hostility towards gay personnel, to acceptance and support.
KEY TOPICS
Mental health
Resilience - how to weather the storm
Stress and workplace performance
How to be an inclusive leader
Trust - building and maintaining
The importance of allies
Culture / transformational change
Goal setting, focus and drive
Emotional intelligence and empathy
Workplace banter - the pros and cons