👋 I’ve spent 25 years leading creative, brand, and product teams across Vimeo, Square, Microsoft, Amazon, Edelman, and Etsy, building ideas, systems, and teams that blend strategy with real creative craft. I’m a hands-on creative at heart, just as energized by selling the idea, writing the story, or directing the work as I am by setting vision, coaching teams, and partnering with executives. That mix of maker energy and executive perspective is where I do my best work.

This is an exciting moment for creative leadership. The brands that win will be the ones with the strongest point of view, the clearest sense of who they are and why it matters. What separates good from great isn't speed or volume, it's taste, judgment, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build teams that nail the human part, the thing that makes work resonate, not just register. That's where I focus: helping organizations bring soul and substance, establish real differentiation, and build brands people actually want to connect with.

Long before I led teams, I was making things: zines, records, art shows, books. Punk rock and DIY culture taught me how to build from nothing, chase an idea until it came alive, and rally people around a shared vision. Sociology taught me why that approach works: creativity thrives where people feel safe, seen, and inspired. That combination of empathy and DIY hustle still fuels every project I touch.

It’s the through-line of my career: create boldly, lead with heart, and build brands that aren’t just noticed, but remembered. Here are a few projects that embody that spirit.

Dave is a team player and knows when to take the chances that deliver impact on the business.

— Ming-Tai Huh, Head of Product at Square

He isn’t afraid to take big swings and make incredible work that’s beyond what’s expected and are literally things folks want to hang on their walls.

— James Schonzeit, Head of Product Design at Square

Dave is one of the most human centered leaders - always keeping his awareness fixed on the people who he leads, the people he works with, and the people that would benefit from the work.

— Dushane Ramsey, Head of Marketing, The Gap

He has an unparalleled passion and care for our customers. He’s the kind of partner and collaborator researchers hope for.

— Carol Camilleri, Research Lead at Square

I can easily say he is the BEST manager I have ever had. He truly leads with kindness and consistently uplifts, encourages and helps guide all of those around him.

— Rachel Hatley-Starnes, VP of Design and Culture at Willow Tree