Our Team
Meet the team behind Essential Talent. We're a passionate group dedicated to connecting organisations with outstanding speakers and personalities.
Shaun O'Neill
Founder & Director
Shaun began his media career at 17 as a radio copywriter before helping launch radio stations, publishing companies and recording studios for major media organisations. After 10 years as General Manager of MediaWorks Waikato, he founded Essential Talent. Now approaching the company's 10th year and expanding into Australia, Shaun loves connecting organisations with outstanding speakers and personalities.
Amy Waddell
Personal Assistant
Amy has been part of the Essential Talent team since 2021 and has helped coordinate hundreds of speaker bookings for clients across New Zealand and Australia. Friendly, organised and highly efficient, she ensures the booking process runs smoothly for both speakers and clients.
Danielle Brown
Speaker Consultant
Danielle is a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, five-time World Champion and Commonwealth Games gold medallist in archery. After nearly 20 years speaking to global organisations about leadership, performance and inclusion, she now works with Essential Talent helping connect clients with impactful speakers.
Jennifer Marriot
Speaker Consultant
Jennifer works with organisations to secure speakers, hosts and personalities who elevate events from well-run to truly memorable. With a strong background in construction industry events and client-facing roles, she brings valuable insight into matching the right talent with the right audience.
Mark Leishman
Speaker Consultant
Mark is a highly respected New Zealand broadcaster with a career spanning radio, television, news and sport. Having hosted more than 40 TV and radio shows, he brings exceptional communication skills and strong industry relationships to his role in sales at Essential Talent, helping clients find the right speakers and talent for their events.
Ben O'Neill
Marketing
Ben played a key role in launching Essential Speakers Australia and now supports marketing across the business. He is currently studying law at the University of Waikato.
Jaxin O'Neill
Team Member
Jaxin is Shaun's youngest son and a passionate hip hop artist. Recently joining Essential Talent, he is gaining experience across many areas of the business and enjoys learning how the company operates behind the scenes.