About Speaker

With a career spanning 40+ years in the retail industry, David is a leading professional in the retail and commercial property markets locally, regionally and globally. A Canadian, resident in the UAE for nineteen years. David has held and continues to hold senior executive roles in the region. Major shopping centre development companies include Emaar, AFGRE, Msheireb and Al Othaim. Heading up the property advisory firm JLL Retail Division. CEO of the MECS+R. With 1,100+ shopping centres regionally, 1,200 retailers and 1,000+ members, the business network is one of the strongest in the MENA region. Connected to our global markets through the Retail People Magazine, The MECS+R Directory, What’s Up Retail monthly newsletter, Voice on Demand – Retail Podcast, GVS Digital and in-person Education Programs through our database of over 10,000+ contacts. Connection daily with our members and the industry globally on multiple social media channels is key to our success. Successfully leading the annual live in-person RECON, Retail Congress event with a 29 year history brings the best and brightest industry leaders together locally, regionally and globally. Appearing on CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, Dubai One, Dubai City 7 TV, Selfie TV and Dubai Zee television as a retail expert in the MENA region. On business radio, Dubai Eye 103.8, David is regularly on air as the retail industry expert & property market commentator.