Brian Burke

Hockey legend Brian Burke is a dynamic figure in both the worlds of business and sport. He is the president of hockey operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins, and formerly held leadership positions in the organizations of the Calgary Flames, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the United States Olympic national hockey team. Burke is a sought-after speaker on business management and growth, leadership, and, of course, his prolific career in professional sports.

Burke’s career in the business of hockey began in 1987 as an NHL player agent and director of hockey operations for the Vancouver Canucks. He was credited with reviving the franchise as the team won a playoff series and captured a division title. From 2005-2007, Burke was the general manager for the Anaheim Ducks, who, under his leadership won the 2007 Stanley Cup championship. He was also a pro scout and consultant for the team after serving as the president and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Burke also worked with the United States Olympic national team as the general manager at Vancouver’s 2010 Winter games, and as the director of player development at the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

Away from the rink, Burke is well known for his work within the community. He is a vocal activist against homophobia in sports, a strong supporter of first response personnel and military service members, an environmentalist, and a humanitarian. Since his son Patrick founded the “You Can Play Project” in support of his brother Brendan, Burke has been very vocal about the importance of LGBT inclusion in the NHL. Burke also remains heavily involved with the military, visiting bases within Canada, the United States, and Afghanistan. He has worked with the Wounded Warrior Project since 2003.

Burke is also an avid supporter of many philanthropic organizations including: Ducks Unlimited Canada, The Canadian Safe School Network (CSSN), Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada, Special Olympics Cops, and Computers Merry-Go-Round Children’s Foundation. In May 2011, he was presented with the Easter Seals Toronto’s Tribute award for lending support to kids with physical disabilities and for excellence in business and community service. Burke is also an active participant in ‘The Big Save’ which is an annual blood donor clinic held in Toronto.

Burke serves as a member of the Selection Committee for the Hockey Hall of Fame and sits on the Board of Directors for Rugby Canada.

Brian Burke Speaking Presentations:

The 12 Commandments of Business

Also from Brian Burke:

Leadership and Lessons from a Life in Professional Sports +

In this highly entertaining presentation, Brian Burke shares stories of his journey through the hockey world, including building a career in professional sports; dealing with the ups and downs; as well as challenges and opportunities in today’s environment for the players and professionals. Burke sheds lights on the three pillars he uses to build a successful organization: (1) running it like a business, (2) entertaining your target audience, and (3) promoting charity work amongst your team. --

Allyship +

Professional sports in North America has a very limited gay presence. The NHL is one league that does not have a presence. Bias, suspicion and prejudice still prevail. Brian Burke’s goal is to help eliminate the barriers. Brian shows audiences that there is a difference between being tolerant and being an active advocate who stands up with pride at all times. His impactful and personal story on what it means to be an ally leaves attendees feeling inspired to become more vocal with their voices and intentional with their actions.

Key Takeaways:

• Three key steps to support the LGBT Community. --

In Conversation +

A speaker renowned for his candid & entertaining discussions, Burke excels in this format where he can explore such topics Business, Sports, LGBT & Inclusion. --

To inquire about Brian Burke's speaking schedule, as well as booking Brian Burke as your event or conference speaker, contact us.