Col. Stuart Tootal

Lieutenant Colonel Military Assistant to the Chief of General Staff, Founder of the Afghanistan Trust Charity & Best-Selling Author

  • Graduated from SOAS University of London
  • Lieutenant Colonel Military Assistant to the Chief of General Staff
  • Founded the Afghanistan Trust Charity
  • Chief Security Officer for Barclays
  • Partner at Matero Management Consultancy
  • Awarded an OBE
  • Best-selling author

Discover Col. Stuart Tootal’s biography of published work below.

SAS: Sea King Down
SAS: Sea King Down
Tank Action: An Armoured Troop Commander's War 1944–45
Tank Action: An Armoured Troop Commander’s War 1944–45
The Manner of Men: 9 PARA's Heroic D-Day Mission
The Manner of Men: 9 PARA’s Heroic D-Day Mission

Former Army Colonel Stuart Tootal is a distinguished leader, best-selling author, and a highly respected figure in the global corporate security sector. With extensive experience in some of the most challenging combat environments, including Northern Ireland and the Middle East, he has demonstrated exceptional resilience and decision-making under pressure. His insights into leadership and overcoming adversity make him a compelling speaker at events, offering invaluable lessons drawn from his distinguished military career.

After graduating from SOAS University of London, Stuart Tootal embarked on an esteemed career in the British Army, rising to the rank of Colonel. His service included multiple tours in Northern Ireland and the Middle East, where he played a pivotal role in high-stakes operations. During his career, he was entrusted with the role of Lieutenant Colonel Military Assistant to the Chief of General Staff, highlighting his expertise in military strategy and leadership. On returning to the UK, he founded the Afghanistan Trust Charity, a vital initiative supporting soldiers wounded in Afghanistan. Following 20 years of service, he transitioned into the corporate sector, becoming Chief Security Officer for Barclays before taking on a leadership role as Partner at Matero Management Consultancy.

Throughout his career, Stuart Tootal has received significant recognition for his contributions. In 2005, he was awarded an OBE for his dedication to the armed forces. His leadership came to the forefront when he commanded the 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, leading them into Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in a defining moment of modern military history. His courage and strategic acumen earned him the Distinguished Service Order, marking him as one of the most accomplished military leaders of his generation. In addition to his military and corporate career, he is also a best-selling author, with four published books offering an insightful account of his experiences.

With a career spanning both military and corporate leadership, Stuart Tootal is an ideal choice as an inspirational leadership speaker. His ability to translate lessons from high-pressure military environments into business and corporate success strategies makes him a sought-after speaker for corporate events, leadership development sessions, and team-building workshops. His gripping storytelling, combined with practical leadership insights, ensures audiences leave with a renewed sense of resilience and strategic thinking. Stuart Tootal is now available for speaking engagements through the Inspirational Leadership Speakers Agency.

Official Testimonials

Col. Stuart Tootal is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:

“Suffice to say the overwhelming view is that Stuart’s speech was fantastic, inspiring, eye-opening, to mention just a few of the superlatives. He really delivered in a most engaging and professional way, having taken care to understand our franchise structure”

Auditel

“My Chairman and I have heard lots of ex-military speakers, but I have never heard one so good; he takes the audience with him”

Kent Rotary Club

“I must tell you how inspiring the guest speaker – Stuart Tootal was, his passion, dedication and responsibility for his men was crystal clear. He is the true definition of a leade. His speech was so moving that the pictures in my mind were crystal clear and brought me to the edge of tears. The comments from attendees included; best speaker on the day, passionate, inspiring, admiration for the difficult decisions you made, definition of a true leader, expanded my knowledge beyond anything the government has told me, admiration for you as a person and a leader, etc.”

Barclays Finance

“Stuart was great yesterday and I’ve already received several emails and comments from attendees noting how fascinating he was and how relevant the points he was making were. Thanks for all your help in organising.”

Karen, JCCA

“I felt compelled to write – as I’m sure many others have – after listening to Stuart’s talk at the Royal Geographic Society. In short, it was excellent. He presented what was a very involved and intricate military (and political) experience with great honesty, eloquence, humility, passion and engaging clarity. …..I can understand why General Mike Jackson tried to persuade you to stay in the military.”

Royal Geographic Society

To enquire about Col. Stuart Tootal for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@inspirational-leadership-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0203 0070 320.