Who is Who
David Downs
David Downs BSc, CMInstD is a seasoned consultant, board director, and advocate for technology-driven public good, healthcare, and education. Currently serving as the CEO of the New Zealand Story, David leads ambitious efforts to promote New Zealand on the global stage.
Previously, David held the role of General Manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), where he spearheaded initiatives to facilitate the international growth of fast-growing companies. He also played a pivotal role in leading cross-government projects in the Agritech sector, demonstrating his commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development.
Aside from his professional accomplishments, David is a captivating public speaker, drawing from his experiences as an ex-comedian and actor. He is also known for his resilience and positivity, having documented his battle with cancer in the book A Mild Touch of the Cancer. David's commitment to community welfare is evident through initiatives like sosbusiness.nz, a not-for-profit venture he co-founded to support small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaker Profile
"You can’t always choose your room, but you can choose your attitude."
David is a seasoned business leader, public servant, consultant, and board director, known for his dynamic speaking engagements and insightful perspectives. As the CEO of Education New Zealand (previously NZ Story), David spearheads efforts to showcase New Zealand's unique offerings to the global audience.
With a background as a General Manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and over 13 years at Microsoft, including a stint as regional director for South East Asia, David brings a wealth of expertise in technology, entrepreneurship, and international business to his speaking engagements.
David is also a published author and a powerful advocate for personal resilience. His inspiring journey of overcoming terminal cancer and his dedication to community welfare, demonstrated through initiatives like sosbusiness.nz, exemplify his unwavering positivity and commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Talking Points:
- Personal resilience - surviving terminal cancer
- New Zealand innovation
- Silver Linings - The positive stories and lessons from Covid-19 in NZ
- International business - how to really screw it up
- Bad board meetings and how to avoid them
- NZ’s place in the world of Agritech
David's diverse expertise and engaging speaking style make him a sought-after speaker for conferences, workshops, and events worldwide.
About Education New Zealand
Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the New Zealand Government agency responsible for building international education, promoting New Zealand as a world-class study destination, and supporting the sustainable growth of the country's international education sector.
Working in partnership with education providers, government agencies, and international stakeholders, ENZ helps strengthen New Zealand's global education reputation, supports international student recruitment, and advances education partnerships that contribute to New Zealand's economic, cultural, and diplomatic objectives.
As Chief Executive of Education New Zealand, David Downs leads the organisation's efforts to position New Zealand as a preferred destination for international learners while supporting the government's long-term international education strategy. He assumed the role in June 2026 after serving as Chief Executive of New Zealand Story Group.
