Professor Damian Hughes is a bestselling author, keynote speaker and co-host of The High Performance Podcast — one of the UK’s most influential platforms exploring sustained excellence, with over 300 million downloads worldwide.
Across more than 400 in-depth conversations with elite performers — from Olympic champions and Premier League managers to CEOs and cultural leaders — Damian has developed a rare insight into the psychology of sustained high performance.
With a background spanning sport, organisational development and change psychology, Damian combines academic rigour with real-world application. He has served on the coaching teams of England Rugby League, England Roses and Scotland Rugby Union, advising on culture, leadership and performance under pressure.
Damian is the author of eight bestselling books, including multiple Sunday Times number-one titles such as High Performance and How to Change Your Life. His latest book, MicroHabits: Tiny Changes That Supercharge High Performance, was released in January 2026. His work has been translated into fifteen languages.
As a keynote speaker, Damian blends research, storytelling and practical frameworks to help organisations build resilient, high-performing cultures.
Why Book Damian?
Damian offers something uniquely powerful:
Access to the mindset of 400+ world-class performers – combined with academic expertise in change and organisational behaviour.
Organisations book Damian to:
• Build high-performing cultures that sustain success
• Understand the psychology behind elite performance
• Translate world-class habits into daily behaviours
• Equip leaders with practical tools for change and growth
He is particularly impactful for leadership teams, partner conferences and organisations navigating transformation, growth or high-pressure environments.
