David's working career spans some 25 years in local government and recently in private consulting. This includes 10 years as Chief Executive across three councils managing up to 240 staff and assets valued at $1.5b. David brings a very deep knowledge of public sector issues, the requirements of elected members, and senior management experience to Business Lab.
As a private consultant David has been influential in leading local government sector thinking and practice, particularly in the field of community and stakeholder engagement. He has trained 98 councils both in New Zealand and Australia using workshops and frequently presents at conferences in both countries.
David has experience in the co-design of cycleways with local communities having led Nelson City through a re-design process, and was a Board Member of the Hauraki Cycleway.