David started his seagoing career in 1970 when he joined Shell Tankers (UK) Ltd as a Cadet. On completing his cadetship, David went to sea on tankers ranging from 20,000 to 330,000 tonnes deadweight carrying crude oils through to refined white products. David also had a spell on an LPG carrier. In 1985 David came ashore and was seconded to Shell International Marine Ltd and worked in the London office. This was the start of his surveying career, carrying out out safety surveys of chemical and gas carriers for the various Shell chartering functions. During this period, David also had a six month secondment to Shell Philippines.

David left Shell in 1987 and worked for the German marine engine manufacturer MaK.

In June 1988 David commenced employment with Bureau Veritas as a Class Surveyor. Surveys were carried out in regard to Class and Flag State requirements as well as carrying out Type Approval surveys of marine equipment. He also carried out audits to BS 8750 in connection with various marine sector businesses. David left Bureau Veritas as Senior Surveyor in 1997.

David commenced his employment with Seawise Maritime Services Ltd, a Marine Consultancy based in London, in March 1997. He undertook instructions from H&M Underwriters, P&I Clubs, Shipowners, and the London Legal sector. Surveys have been undertaken in connection with hull and machinery damages, machinery damage investigations, collisions, groundings, fixed and floating objects, towage, salvage, etc. Also, David has undertaken document reviews for the Legal profession in order to provide Expert Opinion reports and subsequently appeared as Expert Witness in Court and at Arbitration hearings. David also worked as a Technical Superintendent for a cross channel ferry operator during this period.

In 2013 David left Seawise. In April 2013 David started his own Marine Consultancy business. He regularly undertakes work for H&M Underwriters and P&I Clubs in connection with hull damages, groundings, collisions, FFO, machinery breakdowns and damage investigations. He also takes instructions from the London Legal sector and prepares reports for Litigation and Arbitration and appears as Expert Witness at proceedings.

David is a Chartered Engineer registered with the Engineering Council. He is also a Chartered Marine Engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology. David is also a Member of the Society of Consulting Marine Engineers and Ship Surveyors.