Elias Kanaris
Elias Kanaris delivers practical leadership keynotes that help organisations build trust, restore confidence, and perform under pressure.
A passenger on one of the planes diverted during 9/11 to Gander, Newfoundland, Elias experienced first-hand how leadership and trust emerge when it matters most. That moment became the foundation for his work with organisations around the world.
Today, Elias works with CEOs, leadership teams, and high-performing professionals - particularly within financial and professional services - to equip them with actionable frameworks they can apply immediately. His keynote doesn’t just inspire - it provides clear tools and language leaders can use to support their teams and drive performance.
A former President of the Global Speakers Federation, CEO of the Contact Centre Network New Zealand, Elias brings credibility, clarity, and real-world insight to every stage.
Audiences leave not just motivated - but knowing exactly what to do next.
Elias was born in North Africa, was educated in the UK, and now lives in Murrays Bay in Auckland with his wife of 27 years and two of his four children.
He has authored three books. His latest book, ‘Leading From The Stop: Positive influence and heartfelt resilience in times of adversity’ is about the leadership lessons learned from the people of Newfoundland, Canada in the aftermath of 9/11.
13 Countries, 4 Continents
Elias has been an international Keynote Speaker for nearly 3 decades. He has spoken in 13 countries, on 4 continents. He uses humour to engage with his audiences and gets them to buy in to the messages that his clients want him to deliver.
Working with diverse, and multi-cultural teams, Elias understands what it takes to get buy-in. His message traverses the geographical and cultural divides.