BUSINESS | MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS
David Downs
David Downs is a distinguished New Zealand figure whose career spans various fields including business, public service, writing, and comedy.
David Downs is one of New Zealand’s most positive and engaging business voices — a speaker, author, cancer survivor, and tireless champion for innovation and technology.
With a background in business leadership and a career that’s included senior roles at Microsoft and NZTE (New Zealand Trade & Enterprise), David has helped shape the future of Kiwi businesses both here and offshore. He’s known for his ability to make complex ideas accessible and inspire organisations to think bigger and move faster.
David’s personal journey is just as powerful. In 2017, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lymphoma and given only months to live. Against the odds, after undergoing experimental treatment in the US, he made a remarkable recovery. His bestselling book A Mild Touch of the Cancer shares this story with humour and raw honesty, showing his trademark optimism even in the toughest times.
In 2024 and 2025, David has continued his work as CEO of the New Zealand Story Group, telling Aotearoa’s story to the world and helping businesses grow with authenticity and pride. He also remains a leading voice on the role of technology and biotech in creating a better future for New Zealand.
On stage, David is dynamic, funny, and deeply inspiring. He blends business insight with personal resilience lessons in a way that leaves audiences motivated and ready to embrace change.
Ideal for:
Business growth and innovation conferences
Leadership and transformation workshops
Health and wellbeing events
Technology and biotech forums
Corporate team strategy and inspiration days
David shows audiences that optimism and adaptability aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re essential tools for navigating life and business.
