Hi, I’m Daniel Merza, CSP – an award-winning international speaker, facilitator, event host MC, and author specialising in leadership, resilience, wellbeing, and high performance. I’ve delivered high-impact keynotes and workshops across Australia and internationally, inspiring leadership, wellbeing and potential in companies and schools. My background includes over a decade in corporate leadership with KPMG and BDO, combined with a powerful personal story of overcoming bullying and transforming adversity into purpose. Through my signature “Get the Monkeys Off Your Back®” framework, I blend storytelling, humour, and evidence-based strategy to create memorable experiences that inspire action and lasting change. I’m also a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) and accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainer, based in Sydney, Australia. Whether hosting, facilitating, or presenting, I bring energy, warmth, and authenticity to every stage.

Daniel Merza

Hi, I’m Daniel Merza, CSP – an award-winning international speaker, facilitator, event host MC, and author specialising in leadership, resilience, wellbeing, and high performance. I’ve delivered high-impact keynotes and workshops across Australia and internationally, inspiring leadership, wellbeing and potential in companies and schools. My background includes over a decade in corporate leadership with KPMG and BDO, combined with a powerful personal story of overcoming bullying and transforming adversity into purpose. Through my signature “Get the Monkeys Off Your Back®” framework, I blend storytelling, humour, and evidence-based strategy to create memorable experiences that inspire action and lasting change. I’m also a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) and accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainer, based in Sydney, Australia. Whether hosting, facilitating, or presenting, I bring energy, warmth, and authenticity to every stage.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Daniel Merza, CSP – an award-winning international speaker, facilitator, event host MC, and author specialising in leadership, resilience, wellbeing, and high performance.

I’ve delivered high-impact keynotes and workshops across Australia and internationally, inspiring leadership, wellbeing and potential in companies and schools. My background includes over a decade in corporate leadership with KPMG and BDO, combined with a powerful personal story of overcoming bullying and transforming adversity into purpose.

Through my signature “Get the Monkeys Off Your Back®” framework, I blend storytelling, humour, and evidence-based strategy to create memorable experiences that inspire action and lasting change.

I’m also a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) and accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainer, based in Sydney, Australia. Whether hosting, facilitating, or presenting, I bring energy, warmth, and authenticity to every stage.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Professional Speaker, Facilitator, Writer, Coach at Daniel Merza (Self‑employed)
October 1, 2014 - Present
Award-winning international speaker and facilitator specialising in leadership, resilience and high performance; delivers high-impact keynotes and workshops globally; creator of Get the Monkeys Off Your Back framework.
Author - Get the Monkeys Off Your Back at Daniel Merza
January 1, 2013 - Present
Author and content creator focused on leadership, resilience and personal growth; publication of Get the Monkeys Off Your Back material.
Event Host MC - Weddings & Corporate at Daniel Merza
January 1, 2013 - Present
MC for weddings and corporate events, including event planning and management.
Casual Academic Tutor for the School of Business at Western Sydney University
November 1, 2019 - October 20, 2025
Casual tutor supporting business students with coursework and tutorials.
Motivational Speaker for the 40-Hour Backpack Campaign (Temp Role) at World Vision
September 1, 2018 - October 20, 2025
Delivered motivational speaking sessions for a short-term fundraising and awareness campaign.
Manager – Tax & Advisory, and Business Development at KPMG
May 1, 2018 - October 20, 2025
Managed Tax & Advisory services and business development; client relationship management and growth initiatives.
Manager – Tax & Advisory, and Business Development at BDO (formerly PKF)
September 1, 2013 - October 20, 2025
Led Tax & Advisory services and business development; oversaw client engagements and service delivery.
Industry Ambassador at Professional Speakers Australia
March 1, 2019 - October 20, 2025
Promoted industry standards and partnerships; contributed to speaker community initiatives.
President at Professional Speakers Australia - NSW Chapter
December 1, 2022 - October 20, 2025
Led the NSW Chapter as President, overseeing governance, events and member engagement.
Collaborator & Guest Speaker at The Connect Collaborative - Business Collaboration Community
October 1, 2013 - Present
Collaborator and guest speaker (volunteer) supporting community initiatives, including bully-reduction and youth programs.
Youth Leader & Event Coordinato r at Melkite Catholic Church Youth Committee NSW & ACT
December 1, 2010 - October 20, 2025
Youth leadership and event coordination for church-based youth programs.

Education

Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting/Marketing) at Macquarie University
January 11, 2030 - November 1, 2005
Chartered Accountant (Member) at Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & NZ
January 11, 2030 - June 1, 2007
Associate Coach Certificate at The Future Leader Group
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2019
Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) at Professional Speakers Australia
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2024
Mental Health First Aid Instructor License - Standard Course at Mental Health First Aid Australia
January 11, 2030 - April 1, 2024

Qualifications

Chartered Accountant (Member)
January 11, 2030 - June 1, 2007
Associate Coach Certificate
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2019
Certified Speaking Professional (CSP)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2024
Mental Health First Aid Instructor License - Standard Course
January 11, 2030 - April 1, 2024

Industry Experience

Professional Services, Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization

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