L. David Marquet

L. David Marquet is an American author, business executive and US Navy Captain best known for his book Turn The Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders. Marquet was aboard the nuclear submarine USS Santa Fe as its captain in November 2000. He made some radical changes to their command system, and the results have been astonishing. The book follows Marquet's journey of leadership and change.

Marquet grew up in Pasadena, California, where he developed a strong work ethic and leadership skills. He started college at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, where he earned his degree in Electrical Engineering. Following this, he attended Nuclear Power training at the Armed Forces Staff College. After six months of training in Nuclear Reactors, Marquet earned his designation as a Nuclear Submarine Officer from the U.S. Navy in 1982.

Marquet is widely known for his experience leading the Santa Fe during the submarine’s 2000 deployment. In an attempt to turn a failing vessel into a high-performing team, Marquet changed the boat’s command system and cultural arrangement. His primary focus was on empowering his followers, instead of just commanding them. With the changes Marquet made, performance of the boat improved, and it quickly became one of the most successful submarines in the Navy.

This became the focus of Marquet’s first book, Turn The Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders. However, it didn’t stop there. He has since written three additional related books. The newest is Leadership is Language: The Hidden Power of What You Say and What You Don’t. It continues to explain Marquet’s philosophy of leadership and how to empower your followers and create an organization that works together.

Marquet’s books have been incredibly successful, with Turn The Ship Around! being named a Best Business Book of 2013. He is a recognized leader in the world of leadership and team-building. He has spoken at numerous events, including TEDx, and is a highly sought-after leadership consultant.

Marquet is the founder of The Intent Based Leadership Institute, a social purpose organization that aims to support leadership development and organizational culture transformation. Their website provides in-depth training, facts, insights and resources for current and aspiring leaders and team members. The Institute also offers a free course on their website to help with developing an intent-based leadership and team-oriented culture.

Marquet’s passion for leadership and organizational development is evident in his books and his work that he continues to do. His work has made significant and lasting impacts on organizations and leaders worldwide, making him an inspiring and influential author. His body of work serves as an exceptional example of leading with intention and building a successful team.