With a deep understanding of politics, policy, and communications, David has spent his career delivering results in challenging environments on behalf of companies, organizations, and elected officials. At Scarlet Oak, he advises clients on advocacy and public affairs in the Western U.S.

Previously, David served as managing director for Scarlet Oak, working on projects ranging from global energy companies and development to the natural resource and maritime industries on high-profile – often contentious – projects. Before joining Scarlet Oak, he led the public affairs practice at a leading Western U.S.-focused firm. David spearheaded public affairs strategy for prominent clients including major infrastructure and development projects locally and nationally – helping many to fly under the radar while also securing significant public and political support to achieve strategic outcomes.

He also served on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s staff driving external affairs and communications efforts. In this role, he led stakeholder, coalition, and news media engagement across California to advance many of Schwarzenegger’s groundbreaking initiatives including the nation’s first climate action policy, the leading renewable energy standard, wildland fire response, major transportation and infrastructure programs, education reform, and the launch of high-speed rail. David also led corporate communications for a publicly traded biotechnology and energy company in Silicon Valley.

David is a former U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter where he served across North California and Nevada.

A native of Seattle, David can be found skiing and surfing with his wife Katy and son Ian. He holds a master’s degree in public policy focused on energy policy from the University of California, Berkeley as well as a bachelor’s degree in history and international relations from the University of California, Davis.