Ashes hero Strauss to give low-down on business of winning

The 33-year-old star, who masterminded England’s first Ashes win in Australia for 24 years, will talk about leadership and motivation at the convention, recognised as one of the most important days in the region’s business calendar.

Joining Strauss at the two sites hosting the event, the Harrogate International Centre and Bridlington Spa, on June 10 will be legendary All-Blacks rugby captain Sean Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick, 47, led New Zealand for five years from 1992 and spearheaded his nation’s first ever Test series win in South Africa.

Both captains are expected to tell delegates how skills for sporting success can be used in the business arena.

The convention’s chief executive, Mike Firth, said: “For the past two years we have used the ‘Can Do’ theme to reflect the fact that businesses in this region were surviving despite the recession.

“Now we want the focus back on winning rather than just surviving and these are two natural leaders who know all about winning.

“Both these guys have some really important business lessons for the delegates.”

Also speaking will be Monty Halls, the former Royal Marines officer who has become one of the world’s leading divers and explorers.

“Monty is a great speaker and has some great stories to tell,” said Mr Firth. “He’s got some important things to say about survival and winning.”

Now in its 16th year, the convention regularly brings the world’s most influential political and business leaders to Yorkshire. Past speakers include former US President Bill Clinton, ex Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and Sir Bob Geldof.

The name of this year’s keynote speaker will be announced shortly.