David Fairhurst

With over 30 years’ corporate experience in hospitality, retail pharmaceuticals, FMCG, distribution and aerospace, David is widely considered to be one of the world’s leading HR practitioners and is a respected thought leader, business communicator, and government advisor.

Prior to founding our OrgShakers HR Consultancy in 2020, David was a Global Chief People Officer credited as one of the key leaders in delivering a historic business turnaround. In doing so, he is one of very few HR leaders to have had the opportunity to deliver a truly global Cultural Transformation program at pace and at scale.

In 2011, David was appointed by the UK government to act as a Commissioner for the Commission for Employment and Skills – a role he held until the change of government in May 2015. Previously he had served as a Fellow of the Sunningdale Institute; a virtual academy of leading academics and thought leaders created to advise and advance public service. He has also advised officials and politicians at both the European Commission and the European Parliament.

David earned his bachelor’s degree at Lancaster University and his master’s degree at Manchester Metropolitan University Business School which has recognized his ongoing contribution as a Visiting Professor with an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration. He also holds an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from Middlesex University.

David is a Chartered Companion of the UK’s Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development – their highest honor – where he served for four years as Vice President of Learning, Training and Development.

Direct line: +1 331 814 6525