David has over 40 years’ experience in executive leadership, CEO and board positions for companies in the Telecommunications, Finance, Industrial Services and Media Industries. He has lived and worked in Australia, US, Europe and Asia.
David is Chairman of Ventia Services Group Limited, a $6.0 billion revenues Telecommunications, Defence, Infrastructure business (Roads, Water, Power), Environmental Remediation and Social Services (Hospitals, Schools) with over 35,000 employees and contractors, operating in Australia and New Zealand. In 2023 David was appointed Chairman – Australia and New Zealand to Apollo Global Management one of the world’s largest alternative asset managers.
He is a long-term Senior Advisor to Apollo. In May 2025, David was appointed Chairman American Chamber of Commerce in Australia. David joined the Board of Directors in August 2024.
David’s previous roles include Chief Financial Officer and Group MD Consumer for Telstra Corporation Limited and Finance Committee Chair of Foxtel Limited.
He was also CEO GE & GE Capital Australia New Zealand. Other organizations David worked for include Lebara Group, Bain and Company and Citigroup.
David’s community and charitable activities include being a Founding Director, and now Foundation Chairman of Giant Steps Limited. Giant Steps is an Autism education, therapy and support organization helping children, adults and families dealing with autism.
David graduated from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 1985 with a Bachelor of Business. He is an MAICD and in 2020 was awarded a Doctor of the University (QUT).
David and his wife Lindy Shelmerdine live in Melbourne.
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