Be a leader,
not a manager.

Ask anyone who their manager is and they can tell you right away. Ask them who their leader is, after some thought, they’ll tell you, and it’s rarely their manager.

Be the leader that loves leading people.

“We have fun jobs. If it’s not fun, we must be doing something wrong.”

— Dave Laing

My Leadership Journey

To me, leadership is an endless journey. Changing everyday. Internal challenges, external pressures, people changing and growing. You’ll never be able to please every one, but when a leader is focused on the team rather than themselves, the team becomes sustainable, the energy becomes purposeful, and the work becomes impactful.

I’ve been leading creative teams large and small for over a decade now. The largest being Lighthouse, Scotiabank’s In-House team. It taught me the importance of protecting the creative culture, working as partners not clients, and how deep understanding of each others roles produces the best work.

They said it better.

In 2025, when I left Lighthouse, my team put together a sendoff video. When looking back, I feel like some of them were able to sum up my leadership style and impact, better than I could ever. Have a watch and you be the judge.

 

Speaking Engagements

As my passion and experience as grown as a leader, so has my passion and excitement for sharing it.

I’ve spoken about leadership, it’s benefits, and how to build a culture, across Canada, the United States, and Europe.

If you are interested in discussing a possible speaking engagement, please reach out to discuss possible topics.

Contact Me

  • "Dave didn’t just manage, he inspired."

    — Creative Studio Leader

  • "Dave creates space for ideas and for people, cultivating a culture where personal and professional growth are not separate paths, but one mindset."

    — Design Leader

  • "When I met Dave, it wasn't his experience that stood out to me, it was his energy. The kind that makes things sharper, simpler, and suddenly possible."

    – Former Client

  • "Dave’s leadership is defined by energy, curiosity, and a passion for craft and innovation."

    — Leader in Innovation

  • "As a Creative Leader he is focused on culture and growth. Both for the individual and the team."

    — Experienced Design Director

  • "Dave creates a space where everyone feels heard, understood, and comfortable speaking up."

    — Head of Account Services

  • "He’s simply great to hang out with over a beer to talk about ways to get the most out life - both professionally and personally."

    — Creative Agency Leader

Contact Me

Interested in working together? Looking for a speaker at your next conference? Can’t wait to hear from you!