David Lott is CEO of IfM Engage. Working with the Executive team, David leads the strategy of the Company, manages client-facing teams and works closely with IfM Industrial Associates. Engaging with colleagues from across the IfM and wider University, David ensures the connection and alignment of Company to IfM and University goals.

EXPERTISE

Much of David’s career has been spent working in various leadership roles in the University ecosystem. Coming initially from an academic background, David has since worked in finance and operations across the collegiate University. This has given him a deep knowledge of the different drivers and pressures felt across the University system, an understanding critical to his ability to build and enhance strategic relationships. Connecting clients to the right experts in the IfM system and beyond forms a core part of David’s work.

HIGHLIGHTS

Following an initial career in research, David became a qualified chartered accountant and worked in accountancy practice, supporting companies and institutions across the Cambridge ecosystem. On leaving practice, David undertook a number of senior roles in University central finance before becoming Director of Finance for the Gates Cambridge Trust. Following this, David spent two years working a Bursar for a private boarding school before returning to the University and joining IfM Engage, initially as its Chief Finance and Operations Officer.

David is a Fellow of the Institute for Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a Senior Member of Wolfson College. He holds a PhD in Astrophysics, and both an MPhys and MA. David sits on the Make UK East of England Regional Advisory Board and on the ICAEW Manufacturing Community Advisory Group.