Colin MacLachlan

Colin MacLachlan is a former SAS operative, renowned for his elite military career, unshakeable resilience, and powerful leadership insights. With over 25 years of experience in high-risk environments, Colin has evolved into a respected authority on inspirational leadership, using real-life experiences to captivate audiences and ignite personal transformation. His gripping tales from the front lines and beyond offer profound lessons on courage, clarity under pressure, and emotional resilience. From war zones to boardrooms, Colin empowers individuals and teams to overcome adversity, lead with authenticity, and thrive under pressure.

Colin began his military career in 1989 with the Royal Scots, before earning a place in the 22 SAS on his first attempt – a remarkable achievement at the age of just 23. His time in the Special Air Service saw him serve in some of the most dangerous missions of the modern era. These included Operation Barras in Sierra Leone – dubbed ‘Operation Certain Death’ – where he helped rescue British hostages from guerrilla fighters. He was also the first sniper on the scene during the UK’s longest hostage siege at Stansted Airport, and later, was himself held hostage in Basra, Iraq, surviving a mock execution in an extraordinary testament to his mental fortitude. His operational roles spanned negotiation, risk management, and decision-making under extreme pressure—skills he now passes on to others.

After leaving the SAS, Colin completed an exchange programme with Delta Force and SEAL Team 6 and went on to provide security consultancy for the Saudi Royal Family, A-list celebrities, and major US media networks. He later pursued academic excellence, earning a First-Class MA (Hons.) in History from Edinburgh University and an M.Litt in Terrorism from St Andrews University. In addition to appearing on Channel 4’s ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’ and Channel 5’s ‘Secrets of the SAS’, Colin is an accomplished author and public figure. He also lends his voice and experience to gaming titles such as ‘Grand Theft Auto’ and ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’, further extending his unique influence.

Today, Colin is a sought-after keynote speaker, known for his dynamic presentations on leadership, resilience, teamwork, and high-pressure performance. He brings together powerful storytelling, lived experience, and the practical application of Stoic philosophy, guiding audiences through strategies to enhance personal growth and emotional wellbeing. As the Founder of Who Dares Cares, a charity supporting veterans and those under stress, Colin continues to lead by example, championing mental health and positive change. When you book Colin MacLachlan for your event, you’re not just getting a speaker – you’re welcoming a transformational force who inspires teams to face challenges head-on and lead with conviction.