Chief Executive
David Kester leads the Design Council’s national programmes and policies for industry, education and the public sector that strengthen competitiveness in the UK. He is an advocate, commentator and advisor on design for innovation and the built environment.
David’s current focus is on using design to stimulate economic renewal and includes coaching firms with high-growth potential including manufacturers, start-ups and technology ventures. Across Whitehall and at a local level, David is promoting new design-led approaches that turn social challenges into economic opportunity. For instance, the Design Bugs Out programme with frontline NHS staff, has matched the challenges of MRSA and c.Difficile to consortia of manufacturers and designers, resulting in innovative healthcare products and improved approaches to government procurement. Current project themes include dementia care, crime prevention, community cohesion, and preventative healthcare.
During the last year, David has led the Design Council out of the public sector including a merger with the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment.
David became Design Council Chief Executive in 2003. His background in design, industry and the environment includes nine years as Chief Executive of D&AD. He is a member of the Creative Industries Council and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Art and Falmouth College of Art & Design as well as a trustee of the Rose Theatre Kingston.
Note to the Media
For further information and interviews, please contact Nigel Campbell at the Design Council Press Office on 020 7420 5282
Email
david.kester@designcouncil.org.uk