The Corporate Gent

Ovell Barbee is a nationally recognized executive, speaker, and advisor known for his direct, practical approach to leadership, workplace culture, and organizational effectiveness. With experience as both a Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief Diversity Officer, he brings real-world insight from leading organizations through growth, transformation, and complex workforce challenges.

Known as “the voice of civility in the workplace,” Ovell challenges leaders and organizations to stop avoiding the conversations that matter most and instead build environments where people can engage with clarity, respect, and accountability.

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ABOUT SPEAKING

My talks are interactive, practical, and grounded in real leadership experience.

Organizations don’t struggle because of a lack of strategy—theystruggle because of a lack of alignment, clarity, and meaningfuldialogue. I help leaders and teams engage in conversations that driveunderstanding, strengthen culture, and improve performance.

Through engaging, real-world examples and facilitated discussion,participants leave with insights they can apply immediately.

Book an in-person or virtual speaking engagement on one of the following topics:

KEYNOTES

Proven Expertise

We've worked with high performers across industries, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS, Olympic athletes, Fortune 5 companies, venture-backed start-ups, and VCs.

Personalized Services

Our deep experience allows us to tailor our work specifically to your goals, needs, and constraints. We work with you to design a goal-oriented process that helps you seeing real results quickly.

Goal-Oriented

This isn't work for work's sake. Our process focuses on what matters most to you. In the process, we'll dial up your focus, build forward momentum, and create clarity in your personal and professional life.

Person-Centered

We're invested in helping you perform better, and we're even more invested in who you are as a person. We anchor the work in your values and identity so that the real you is always at the center.

Fostering Civility: Building Respectful and Thriving Workplaces

How can organizations navigate today’s polarized landscape while fostering environments of respect and collaboration? This talk explores the transformative power of civility in the workplace.

The Future of HR: Navigating Change and Empowering Workforces

As workforce expectations continue to evolve, HR must redefine its role as a strategic force for organizational success. This session explores the shifting dynamics of work—from leveraging artificial intelligence and adapting to hybrid environments to leading diverse, multigenerational teams.

How Will You Be Remembered? Building a Human-Centered Leadership Brand

Leaders are the key to maximizing employee engagement, productivity, and retention. Learn how to build a human-centered leadership brand by understanding how your stakeholders view you and the importance of being the author of your own life story.

Keeping Culture Transformation Top of Mind

What’s the greatest challenge to transforming an organization’s culture? In this interactive presentation, you’ll learn how to activate team members to use their voices as catalysts for change—so your culture evolves, your organization thrives, and individuals feel empowered to bring their full selves to work.

The Human Side of AI: Preparing People for the Next Era of Work

As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, one question remains at the forefront: how will humans thrive in an AI-driven world? This presentation explores the intersection of technology, talent, and transformation.

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Past Speaking Engagements

Black Boys and Men National Symposium
TalentFirst HR Council Gathering
National HR Healthcare Conference, Chair and Presenter
Urban League's 4th Annual MLK Corporate Breakfast
National Diversity Council’s National Black Men in Leadership Summit
Healthcare HR Management Institute’s National Forum
Becker’s Healthcare Annual Meeting
Washtenaw Economic Club
OnCon HR Program Instructor
DEI and Health Equity Webinar, MHA Keystone Center and Michigan Public Health Institute
NAAAHR Midwest Conference
Fireside Chat; Steelcase
HR Healthcare Panel: Reimagining the Healthcare Workplace to Attract and Retain Talent
Corp Diversity Conference
Moderator for The Marcus Evans Group National Healthcare HR Summit

CLIENTS, PARTNERS & MEDIA APPEARANCES

Testimonials

Ovell delivered a powerful and insightful keynote on the importance of keeping diversity top of mind in the workplace. His message underscored not only the value of diverse perspectives in fostering innovation and inclusivity but also practical strategies for building a culture of belonging. Ovell's engaging approach and actionable takeaways resonated deeply with our attendees, leaving us inspired and equipped to make meaningful changes.

Alexis Yaeger

Program & Community Development Director

"Engaging!"

Alexis Yaeger

Program & Community Development Director

"Very approachable and friendly!"

Alexis Yaeger

Program & Community Development Director

"Ovell's style is effective and well paced."

Alexis Yaeger

Program & Community Development Director

Book ovell for your next speaking engagement

The Corporate Gent

My talks are interactive, practical, and grounded in real leadership experience.

Proven Expertise

Personalized Services

Goal-Oriented

Person-Centered

Certifications & Badges

Watch Ovell In Action

Past Speaking Engagements

CLIENTS, PARTNERS & MEDIA APPEARANCES

Testimonials