Jo Salter joined the Royal Air Force when she was just 18 years old, and studied Electronic Systems Engineering at the Royal Military College of Science. Earning her wings in 1992, she became a combat pilot in the 617 Squadron, before working as a qualified tactics instructor flying the Hawk T1, supporting the next generation of Air Cadets.
Her achievement at becoming the first female fast jet pilot represented a breakthrough in traditionally male-dominated fields, inspiring a new generation of women in aviation.
She is the bestselling author of two books on personal energy and mindset:
– Energize!: Kickstart Your Life in 6 Easy Ways (2009): in this book, Jo describes six energy areas (creative, emotional, intellectual, personal, physical, and spiritual) and helps the reader to work our their own energy profile, and in turn, ways to boost and sustain energy levels and how to take care of physical and mental wellbeing.
– Energize: Spring Clean Your Mind and Body to Get Your Bounce Back Today and Every Day (2019): This book provides readers with an energy-boosting strategy to ensure a balanced lifestyle.
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She also regularly contributes to conversations around inclusive leadership, navigating emerging technologies, and digital ethics. Her media appearances span TV, radio, and live work, interviewing the likes of Tim Peake and Rachel Riley, and Tom Cruise personally asked to meet her at the Top Gun: Maverick premiere.
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Jo Salter | Speaker
Jo was named the No. 1 motivational speaker in Global Gurus’ Official List of Top 10 Motivational Speakers to Hire for Corporate Events 2025.
When booked as a speaker, Jo Salter shares her expertise on global transformative leadership, along with how she broke glass ceilings in the male-dominated world of the Armed Forces.
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Jo Salter | Keynote Talks
Disruption and Transformation: Drawing from her groundbreaking career in the RAF and her leadership roles, Jo shares her knowledge on disruption and transformation. She provides her invaluable insight into driving transformation and mitigating disruption in any sector. Her ability to adapt to new roles, leader under pressure, and navigate the complexities of operations has honed her ability to cause positive disruption and achieve significant transformation.
Adopting a Change Mindset: Jo’s military career has put her in a unique position to develop profound expertise in change management and how to embrace a change mindset. In an environment categorised by evolution and unforeseen challenges, Jo’s military career forced her to challenge the norm, break stereotypes, and embrace change.
Generative AI: Jo speaks passionately about Generative AI due to her deep expertise and experience working as the Global Advisory of GenAI at PwC. Her role focusses on how to navigate emerging technologies and implementing ethical AI strategies.
How to Empower Female Leadership In the Workplace: With a career that includes being the first female fast jet pilot, Jo exemplified female leadership and resilience. Forging a trailblazing path in the male-dominated sector of the military, she showcases the true potential of female leadership and women in business.
How to Build High-Performing Teams: Drawing on her experience of managing high-performing teams, both in the RAF and in business, Jo excels in the creation and also the maintenance of high-performance teams. Integrating her understanding of resilience, strategic thinking, and diversity, she fosters the creation of innovative working environments in which people can thrive.
The Art of Inclusive Leadership: Having navigate the male-dominated world of the RAF, Jo is expertly informed on the importance of inclusive leadership. Navigating this challenging landscape, she gained unique insights into the importance of diversity, empathy, and equal opportunities, which she now applies to foster more inclusive, understanding, and effective leadership styles.
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Jo Salter is a standout choice for business conferences, fireside chats, workshops, and panel discussions across industries. A revered motivational speaker, Jo brings a rare and authentic perspective to the world of keynote speaking. Her captivating presentations are available in both in-person and virtual formats.
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Jo Salter | Inspirational Coach and Facilitator
On top of her speaking roles, Jo Salter uses her exceptional expertise and experience to serve as an inspiring coach. Her coaching style is infused with lessons learned from high-pressure environments, emphasising the importance of mental toughness, teamwork, and adaptability. She helps to empower individuals and wider teams to exceed their limits, fostering cultures of continuous improvement and confidence.
She is also a highly skilled event facilitator, renowned for her ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences. As an adept facilitator, she has worked with names including EDG Energy, the Home Office, and Leicester Tigers.
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Why Book Jo Salter?
– Broke gender barriers as the first female fast jet pilot
– Embodies courage, dedication, and resilience
– Transitioned from a military environment to the business sector
– Adaptability
– Vast leadership experience
– Has a unique perspective on business
– Thrived in the male-dominated fields of military and business
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Jo Salter | Other Work
Jo Salter is deeply involved in a range of advocacy and charitable initiatives. She is a past Trustee of the Royal Air Force Club, is a Livery Member of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, an Ambassador for Global Angels, and is a Trustee of the Ripples Charity.
Jo Salter was awarded an MBE by the Prince of Wales and received an Honorary Doctorate from Bournemouth University. She continues to champion authentic, inclusive, and purposeful leadership in the cockpit, on stage, or in a boardroom.
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To check fees and availability for Jo Salter, contact Great Business Speakers on 0044 (0)1753 439289
