Innovation that delivers results - not theatre

I help organisations turn emerging tech and strategic innovation into measurable results – faster approvals and higher margins.

With 15+ years transforming ideas into commercial impact for world-class brands across retail, infrastructure and the built environment, I know what separates innovation theatre from genuine value. Whether you need AI capability at scale, a fractional innovation leader or keynotes that spark real action, I focus on what actually works.

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Credentials that matter

GINI Certified Chief Innovation Officer
Led innovation and culture programmes for 11,000-employee organisations
Strategic innovation advisor to $13bn infrastructure programme
AI strategy development for engineering firms
ISO 42001-aligned governance expertise

Clients include

Client logos including Nike, Microsoft, Chanel, Levi's, Meta, LVMH, Lindt, Google, L'Oréal, Unilever, Coty, LEGO, Swarovski, TNW, Mercedes-Benz, Worldpay, Sky, Fujitsu, TikTok, Shell, Carrefour, EY, Which?, IKEA, Hugo Boss, Johnson & Johnson, Duracell and Walmart

What I do

Three ways to move your innovation forward

Fractional leadership

Hands-on innovation leadership, 1–3 days a week. Strategy, execution, lasting capability.

Innovation sprints

From vague ideas to validated concept in just 4-6 weeks.

Speaking & workshops

Inspiring, practical, buzzword-free insights that spark real action. From boardroom briefings to 1,500-seat keynotes - on AI, retail futures, and infrastructure innovation.

Find out more about programs and projects

Why organisers choose me

No theatre, just impact

I've sat through enough innovation workshops that produce nothing but Post-its. My approach focuses on commercial outcomes from day one.

A bridge between worlds

I translate between engineers and executives, startups and enterprises, AI possibilities and practical realities. Complex ideas, simple language.

Speed without sacrifice

My sprints deliver in weeks what consultancies stretch to quarters. Rigorous thinking, rapid execution, real results.

About me

I've helped retailers reimagine stores, engineers unlock billions in savings, and executives embrace AI without the anxiety. My superpower is making innovation accessible to everyone - from board directors to frontline teams.

After founding two successful businesses, developing an innovation culture program at a global engineering firm, and advising one of Australia's largest construction projects, I've learned that the best innovations aren't always the boldest. They're the ones that actually get implemented.

Cate Trotter facilitating an innovation workshop

Speaking that sparks action

I've delivered keynotes to 1,500+ professionals worldwide, led workshops for some of today's most recognised brands, and designed innovation programs reaching 10,000+ participants.

Whether you need a high-energy keynote, hands-on masterclass, or executive briefing, I translate complex trends into clear actions your team can implement tomorrow.

Formats:

15-60 minute keynotes
90 minute - 1 day workshops
20-60 minute virtual sessions
Executive briefings with Q&A

Explore speaking topics

Audience at one of Cate Trotter's keynotes

Let's move your innovation forward

Book a no-obligation discovery call to see if a fractional programme or sprint is the right fit.

Drop me a line - I'll do my best to get back to you within 12 hours.

Use the form here or email hello@catetrotter.com