Hi, I’m Dave 👋
I’m currently a Senior Engineering Manager at Canva, where I lead our AI Platform teams.
The Journey Here
My path to engineering leadership has been anything but straight:
- Started in the trenches (late 90s): Systems admin, database development… think “BOFH” 😉
- Found my calling in data (2003-2014): 11 years building my love for databases and operations
- Discovered leadership (2010+): From leading small teams to managing managers globally
- Embraced the startup life: Trade Me → Timely → Sharesies → GitLab → Canva
Each role taught me something crucial. At Trade Me, I learned to scale. At Timely, we built teams from scratch. At GitLab, I saw how the best remote-first companies operate. Now at Canva, I’m helping build the AI infrastructure that powers creativity at scale.
What I Actually Do
These days, I focus on:
- Building AI Platform capabilities that enable hundreds of engineers
- Developing leaders who can navigate technical and people challenges
- Creating systems that amplify human intelligence
- Scaling engineering functions in high-growth environments
But honestly? My favourite part is still solving interesting problems with smart people.
The Human Side
Originally from Margate, South Africa, I’ve called Wellington, New Zealand home since 2003. When I’m not fighting with computers:
- Family: Partner, 3 daughters (late teens or adult), 2 dogs, and a cat who tolerates us
- Garage warrior: Currently home to a Triumph Speed Triple RS motorbike and too many woodworking tools
- Serial tinkerer: If it can be taken apart, I’ve probably tried
- Non-athlete: Former powerlifter, current “just trying to keep up with the kids”. Golfer with zero chance of breaking 90 any time soon.
- Proudly South African: Yes, I braai. Yes, I enjoy a good beer. Stereotypes exist for a reason 😄
Why This Blog Exists
This space has evolved with my career. What started as SQL Server deep dives has transformed into explorations of engineering leadership, and (hopefully) AI augmentation, and building systems that make us smarter.
Let’s Connect
I’m always up for interesting conversations, especially if you’re:
- Wrestling with engineering leadership challenges
- Curious about AI augmentation for knowledge work
- Building or scaling technical teams
- A startup needing strategic technical guidance (beer-based payment-plans by negotiation)
Drop me a line on LinkedIn – just mention what brought you here.