About Gary
S. Gary Snodgrass is a respected author, speaker, former corporate executive, public servant, and educator. He served as Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for a Fortune 100 company, two-term mayor of St. Augustine Beach, Florida, and lead independent director for a publicly traded company. He currently teaches strategic management and human resources at Flagler College and Trinity College of Jacksonville. He holds an MBA and a BS in Business Administration and is the published author of three books and several essays.
Photo by Cheryl Joy Miner
Book:
Demystifying Corporate Buzzwords: A Practical Guide to Clear Business Communication (coming November 2025)
Corporate buzzwords are everywhere, but they often confuse more than they clarify. This book is a clear-headed, practical guide to understanding, interpreting, and using corporate language with integrity and confidence. With 30 core buzzwords, 20 honorable mentions, real-world case studies, and a Strategic Buzzword Toolkit designed to help professionals at all levels speak with more purpose, precision, and credibility.
Speaking and Teaching
Gary is an engaging speaker and thoughtful educator who brings decades of real-world experience to the classroom and stage. His talks and workshops are designed to inspire, inform, and equip audiences with practical tools they can apply.
Topics Include:
– The Power (and Pitfalls) of Corporate Language
– Strategic Leadership in a Noisy World
– Strategic Management, Ethics, CSR, and the Future of Work
– From the Boardroom to City Hall: Lessons in Leadership
– Career Navigation and Communication for College Students and Professionals
Consulting and
C-Suite Coaching
Drawing on his leadership in corporate strategy, HR, governance, and local government, Gary advises organizations seeking clarity in strategy planning and execution, communication, and culture. He coaches C-Suite executives to build and refine their leadership skills. His approach is grounded, practical, and designed to build internal alignment and external impact.
A Tribute to Patsy
For more than 55 years, my wife, Patsy T. Snodgrass, has been my wise advisor, collaborator, and partner in every sense of the word. While she has remained behind the scenes, her steady guidance, thoughtful counsel, and unwavering support have shaped nearly everything I’ve undertaken—from business to public service to writing. I am deeply grateful.
What sets S. Gary Snodgrass Apart
Gary Snodgrass brings a rare blend of Fortune 100 executive leadership, public service, and academic insight to every engagement. As a former chief human resources officer, corporate board leader, two-term mayor, college professor, and published author, he offers a uniquely broad and credible perspective on leadership, business strategy, and personal development. His real-world experience-across the boardroom, classroom, and community-sets him apart from traditional consultants, speakers, and authors. Gary’s work is grounded in decades of practical leadership with a clear focus on clarity, integrity, and impact
Read my work
Books & Publications
Demystifying Corporate Buzzwords
When Your Career Means Business
