David was appointed Chief Executive of the Design Council in April 2003. Following an organisational review he has established practical campaigns helping UK managers reap the benefits of design within business and the public sector. He has also placed a high priority on strengthening the design sector in relation to representation, education and public promotion.

Prior to his appointment at the Design Council, David was Chief Executive of British Design & Art Direction (D&AD). His nine year tenure is associated with a turnaround in the performance and reputation of this well-established professional association and educational charity.

He is currently a council member of the Royal College of Art, and sits on a number of industry task forces and advisory boards including the British Council, NESTA, the London Design Festival and the Design Business Association.