David has worked in the further education sector for over 30 years, mostly in sixth form colleges.  He has been a college principal since 2010, leading over that time 2 colleges, and has been principal of a college in east London since 2016. The earlier part of his career was in Hampshire colleges. Aside from being a qualified teacher, David also has an MSc degree in people and organisational development and is a qualified professional coach.

His work has often had an international dimension.  He has delivered teacher training in China and has recruited students from overseas, with strong connections to Vietnam.  His current college in London has one of the most ethnically diverse student populations in the college sector and David is highly experienced in planning education, support and welfare for young people living in some of the most deprived areas of the city, including for young asylum seekers.