Tom Chappell

After leaving the corporate world for Kennebunk, Maine more than 30 years ago, Tom Chappell dedicated himself to building Tom's of Maine, a company that produces innovative, natural personal care products in a caring and creative work environment. Chappell's riveting keynotes explain how in building his company he acquired a new business vision and the tools to make that vision come true. His talks also offer step-by-step suggestions, illuminated with stories from daily life at Tom's of Maine, about how to integrate one's personal beliefs into practical, productive, and profitable business strategies.

Chappell, who co-founded Tom's of Maine with his wife Kate, served as CEO of the company. The company has been recognized as one of the "100 Best Companies in the U.S. for Working Mothers" by Working Mother magazine and received the "Corporate Conscience Award for Charitable Contributions" from the Council on Economic Priorities. Following a profound experience in Wales in 2008, inspired by the natural beauty, Chappell and his wife founded Ramblers Way Farm, focusing on producing superfine wool garments with a commitment to ecological responsibility. This venture emphasizes sustainable practices mirroring the ethos he championed at Tom's of Maine.

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Chappell founded The Saltwater Institute, which offers leadership development programs designed to foster responsible business practices. Like the companies he leads, Chappell has received numerous accolades including the "New Englander Award" from the Small Business Association of New England and "Entrepreneur of the Year" from CNBC. His commitment to community and ethical leadership extends to his roles in various cultural and philanthropic organizations, including the Dean’s Council and the Advisory Council for the Center for the Study of Values in Public Life at Harvard Divinity School. Appointed by President Clinton to the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy, Chappell continues to impact a range of sectors. He is also the author of "The Soul of a Business: Managing for Profit and the Common Good" and "Managing Upside Down: Seven Intentions for Values-Centered Leadership."