Born in Fort Erie, Ontario, David graduated from the University of Toronto where he obtained a B.A.Sc. in 1959, M.A.Sc. in 1960 and in 1962 a Ph.D. He furthered his education from 1962-63 at the University of Cambridge doing post doctorate research.

David joined DuPont Canada in 1963 as a Research Engineer at Kingston and then in 1968 joined the Fibres division as a Polymer Technical Supervisor.

Five years later he joined the Explosives Division in North Bay where he held the position of Technical Superintendent in the Explosives Division, and in 1975 moved to Montreal as Technical & Planning Manager, Explosives. In 1979, he joined the Tire & Industrial division as Rubber Industry Manager and in 1982 became the Manager, General Products, Mississauga.

Starting April 1985, David worked in Wilmington as a Principal Consultant in the Corporate Plans division, and then in December 1985 returned to Toronto where he was named General Manager, Finishes.

David was appointed Director, Corporate Planning and Corporate Development in April 1989 and, in November, Vice President, Manufacturing and Engineering. In April 1992, he was appointed Senior Vice President with responsibility for Fibres and Intermediates and Engineering Polymers units, and Manufacturing and Engineering.

In March 1994, David was appointed Vice President and General Manager, Nylon – Asia Pacific, until July 1995 when he was appointed President, DuPont Asia Pacific.

David returned to Canada where he was named President and C.E.O. of DuPont Canada Inc. in September 1997. On February 13, 1998, David was appointed Chairman of the Board, DuPont Canada Inc.

Married with two children and four grandchildren, David resides in Mississauga, Ontario.

David continues to contribute to the community by serving on various Boards and Committees associated with business, industry and education.