Michael O’Leary

This book is not purchasable in your country. Please select another book.

Listen to a sample

What to expect

Penguin presents the audiobook edition of Michael O'Leary by Matt Cooper, read by Stephen Hogan.

September 2017. Ryanair cancels over 700,000 bookings and its powerful PR juggernaut comes shuddering to a halt. For once, the airline's aggressive and flamboyant CEO, Michael O'Leary, is contrite and apologetic.

A month later Ryanair announces increased passenger traffic for October, year-on-year growth and increased profits. Its share price soars. For the moment, it appears, a fundamental shake-up of Europe's biggest airline is off the table. But questions remain about the causes of the debacle and O'Leary's role in it.

Michael O'Leary lifts the veil on the wildly successful and wildly controversial Ryanair CEO. Based on extensive research - including with close associates of O'Leary - the book examines O'Leary's personality, beliefs and obsessions and describes how these have moulded the business he runs. Written by a multi-award-winning journalist and broadcaster, with a thirty-year career covering business and current affairs, it is a fascinating insight into the business behind the man, and the man behind the business.

Critics Review

  • An indispensable guide for anyone who wants to understand not just where Michael O’Leary and Ryanair are coming from, but where they are going

    Sunday Business Post
  • A frequently enlightening unauthorised biography … entertaining

    Irish Independent
  • Cooper’s book tracks O’Leary’s change of attitude towards passengers since 2014. He built his career amid alehouse expletives and wisecracks that should have been enough to make most customers steer clear – were it not for the promise of ever lower prices.

    The Mail on Sunday
  • Fascinating book … very comprehensive

    The Stand
  • In a world of colourless corporate leaders, Ryanair’s aggressive, mouthy chief executive provides catnip for journalists. Cooper, an award-winning Irish writer and reporter, makes the most of the opportunity to dissect his colourful subject.

    The Financial Times
  • Matt Cooper explores the recent tough times for the high-profile businessman.

    The Journal, Ireland

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to get tailored content recommendations, product updates and info on new releases. Your data is your own: we commit to protect your data and respect your privacy.