David was brought up on a mixed/dairy farm. The youngest of five, he trained as a Chartered Accountant and then moved into industry. He has spent nearly 50 years in the print and packaging industry which brought him up to Cumbria in 1987.

From 2004, until he retired in 2015, David was CEO of the Innovia Group based in Wigton. Before retiring he proudly signed the contracts for the polymer substrate supply to the Bank of England and significant new investment in the Wigton site.

He is currently a mentor/coach to a number of people, Chair of Cumbria CBI, Chair of the Cumbria Economic Growth Board, Chair of the Employment Advisory Board at HMP Haverigg and also involved with start up companies all in the hope that his experience will be helpful.

David has two children and four grandchildren. In his spare time he, and his other half Soo, can be found walking the fells, skiing, watching rugby and gardening.

David was appointed as Chair of the trustees of Cumbria Community Foundation in December 2016.

He said: “Cumbria Community Foundation does some fabulous work supporting disadvantaged individuals and communities in Cumbria, as well as providing an excellent vehicle for those who wish to financially support this life changing work. It is an honour to work with the Foundation and to be able to contribute to the outstanding contribution to Cumbrian people and communities that is made by our grantees, the staff, the trustees and our many wonderful donors.”