Discover how the former Microsoft Europe Chairman and bestselling author of ‘The Positive Leader’ unlocks human potential. Dive into his expert insights to elevate your leadership.
Czech Republic
Europe
Core Intelligence Domain: Leadership & Human Potential
Location: Prague, Czech Republic | Languages: English, Czech, Slovak
Representation: Represented globally by PSpeakers Global Intelligence
Jan Mühlfeit is a global strategist, executive coach, and bestselling author who has dedicated his career to unlocking human potential. As the former Chairman of Microsoft Europe, he brings an unparalleled C-suite perspective on scaling global operations, building high-performance cultures, and navigating complex corporate ecosystems. Today, he leverages his proprietary frameworks in positive psychology and mental toughness to mentor top-tier CEOs, Olympic athletes, and leading global organisations, transforming how leaders approach peak performance in highly volatile environments.
During his illustrious 22-year tenure at Microsoft, Jan served in various pivotal executive roles, ultimately rising to the position of Chairman of Microsoft Europe (2007–2014). Under his leadership, the European division achieved unprecedented growth, driven by his unique approach to empowering individuals and fostering an environment of continuous innovation. His leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that individuals and teams achieve their highest performance when they are encouraged to leverage their inherent strengths, rather than merely fixing their weaknesses.
Jan is the author of the critically acclaimed book, The Positive Leader: How Energy and Happiness Fuel Top-Performing Teams (published by Pearson). In this seminal work, he outlines a comprehensive framework for sustainable success, combining cutting-edge research in positive psychology with decades of frontline corporate leadership experience. His methodologies are highly sought after by Fortune 500 companies seeking to build resilient, agile, and motivated workforces equipped to handle rapid digital transformation and economic shifts.
Beyond the corporate boardroom, Jan is a passionate advocate for mental resilience and youth development. He actively coaches Olympic athletes to optimise their mental fortitude under extreme pressure and leads national and global initiatives aimed at unlocking the potential of children. By equipping the next generation with psychological tools for success, Jan ensures his frameworks create long-lasting, cross-generational impact.
"A lot of very positive feedback from our team. People got a lot out of it and felt that Jan was a very normal person that they could connect with. The messages were strong and connected well with our theme at the meeting. I think he delivered a great story and backed it with lots of data as we discussed. Jan was incredibly accommodating and I loved how he got stuck into the event, for example he came for dinner, he joined other sessions and was just ready to pass on any knowledge to anyone that would listen. I am here so use me was his thinking all the time. One tiny negative was that rather than doing the 30-minute pres and 30-minute Q&A, Jan just kept going for the hour. We really didn’t mind but I guess it could have been a problem and pity he didn’t think about it. All in all very impressed and satisfied and would highly recommend Jan. Thanks for organising it and getting Jan at such short notice." Tom Freyne, CEO
“I had the pleasure of working with Jan in various leadership roles at Microsoft. He is a high integrity leader who brings passion and thoughtfulness to the business. He has played an important role in Microsoft's innovation and growth throughout Europe."
“The Positive Leader by Jan Mühlfeit is the perfect guide that can help unlock greatness in any leader who wishes to be a catalyst for change and transformation.”
“The cornerstone of world-class success and happiness is self-awareness. This book addresses the most important decision you will ever make – to uncover who you are and offer your best to the world.”
‘’In an era in which good leadership is scarce, this book, the product of years of experience by its author in leadership positions, is an excellent guide to young aspiring new leaders.’’
“Jan Mühlfeit was the star guest speaker to a weekend retreat for newly appointed partners at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm. The retreat was focused specifically on high performance. Jan spoke with passion, humility and great humour to scores of the firm’s senior leaders and rising talent from all regions of the globe, illustrating the messages of his bestseller The Positive Leader and drawing on the rich experience he gained as chairman of Microsoft Europe and as an accomplished sportsman and executive coach. He radiates energy and fulfilment and is a living testament to the highly insightful lessons shared in his book. Audience feedback was outstanding in its praise for Jan as a hugely inspiring and motivating speaker. People were clearly struck by the refreshing openness he demonstrated about his own life and by his determination that others should benefit from the great wisdom he has accumulated. Everyone left the room optimistic and enthusiastic about their new challenges.”