Former President Joe Biden revealed Wednesday, July 2, that European leaders continue to seek his private counsel as they navigate the current political landscape, describing ongoing behind-the-scenes engagement, despite his withdrawal from public office. During a keynote address at the Society for Human Resource Management annual conference in San Diego, Biden disclosed that world leaders regularly contact him for advice.
Speaking to nearly 20,000 human resources professionals both in-person and virtually at the San Diego Convention Center, Biden addressed speculation about his post-presidency activities. The former president indicated that multiple European leaders have asked him to become more actively involved in international affairs, though he remains primarily advisory in his role.
Biden explained that he continues to receive calls from officials across the political spectrum, including both Democratic and Republican colleagues who seek to discuss various issues with him. He emphasized that these contacts are initiated by others rather than himself, noting that officials specifically request meetings to discuss current events and policy matters.
The former president acknowledged the challenge of stepping away from decades of public service, questioning how one simply disengages from such responsibilities. He stressed that while he remains engaged behind the scenes, he deliberately avoids high-profile public involvement in most political matters.
Biden expressed concern that many of his administration’s accomplishments are being rapidly altered, though he refrained from mentioning his successor by name during the San Diego appearance. He specifically referenced his work with NATO, claiming the alliance had been strengthened significantly during his presidency and describing its previous state as problematic.
The 82-year-old former president also disclosed that he is currently working on a memoir focused exclusively on his four years in office. Biden indicated that his publisher has set an ambitious timeline for the 500-page book, which he described as requiring intensive effort to complete. He noted that presidential memoirs typically take between three and six years to finish, but his publisher requested completion by March of this year.
During his address, Biden emphasized the importance of human resources professionals in creating positive workplace environments. He drew parallels between presidential leadership and human resources management, suggesting that “the president of the United States is a chief people officer” and should function in that capacity.
Biden shared personal leadership philosophies developed throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with dignity and respect. He referenced lessons learned from his father about the significance of work beyond financial compensation, noting that employment encompasses personal dignity and worth.
The former president stressed the importance of leaders recognizing family obligations and encouraging employees to prioritize significant personal events. He recounted sending a memo to White House staff during his vice presidency, instructing them to attend important family occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and graduations rather than work commitments.
Drawing from personal tragedy, Biden emphasized that certain moments cannot be recovered once lost, referencing the 1972 car accident that killed his first wife and daughter. He argued that leadership requires understanding the personal dimensions of employees’ lives and showing empathy in professional relationships.
Biden concluded his remarks by encouraging human resources professionals to continue demonstrating strong leadership in their organizations. He emphasized their role in shaping workplace culture and building stronger communities through their professional efforts.
Following his San Diego appearance, Biden announced plans to travel to Los Angeles to meet his first great-grandson, highlighting his increased focus on family relationships since leaving office. He mentioned maintaining daily contact with all of his grandchildren as part of his current routine.
Biden joins former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton as keynote speakers at SHRM conferences, underscoring the event’s significance within the human resources industry. The organization’s leadership praised Biden’s participation, noting his perspective as a global leader adds valuable insight to discussions about workplace evolution and transformation.
When addressing speculation about future political involvement, Biden firmly stated his position regarding potential campaigns. He also injected humor into his presentation, mentioning recreational activities including driving his 1967 Corvette in his driveway.
The appearance represents one of Biden’s few public engagements since leaving office in January, as he has largely maintained a low profile following his departure from the White House. His revelation about ongoing international consultation suggests continued influence in diplomatic circles despite his official retirement from elected office.
Sources:
https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/joe-biden-speaks-conference-san-diego/509-4544a9cf-d174-4cf3-b703-e9713f22bfd5
https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/employee-relations/biden-hr-underestimates-their-value
https://nypost.com/2025/07/03/us-news/biden-says-hes-working-on-memoir-and-getting-calls-from-european-leaders-asking-him-to-get-engaged-post-presidency/
https://www.foxnews.com/media/biden-claims-hes-getting-calls-from-european-leaders-wanting-him-get-engaged
https://www.businessinsider.com/leadership-lessons-former-president-biden-hr-professionals-2025-7
