Bio

David Thomas

Keynote speaker, thought leader and entrepreneur, David Thomas equips business leaders with the knowledge and tools to navigate the cross-cultural challenges involved in doing business in Asia Pacific and helps them develop their own strategy for success in the region.

He is well known in Australia as a ‘China Expert’ with a wealth of experience in financial services, business and investment, having lived and worked in London, Hong Kong and Sydney.

Over the past thirty years, he has inspired, motivated and educated global business leaders, entrepreneurs and investors to pay attention to the massive growth potential offered by modern China and other emerging countries and taken them on a journey to identify and build long-term business and investment relationships. 

Here follows a brief summary of his activities and profile:

SPEAKER

David is regularly asked to speak in conferences, seminars, workshops and board meetings around the world  on a wide range of topics, including ‘Future Trends’, ‘Innovation’, ‘Leadership’, ‘Disruption’ and ‘Globalisation’  with a particular focus on China and its changing role and impact on the global economy.

As a China expert speaker and thought leader, David is a charismatic, passionate and warm presenter with a unique ability to demystify a country that has long been hidden to the western world. He is bold in questioning the myths that many people in the west have about embracing a view to China, and at the same time empowers audiences with clear take-aways enabling them to successfully see the opportunity for what it is.

Having worked on the ground for over 30 years, in a wide range of industry sectors, he has practical examples, case studies and anecdotes to bring his presentations to life, making David an easy choice for companies and entrepreneurs looking to learn about engaging and doing business with China.

AUTHOR

As a regular follower of news, business trends and commentary from China, David Thomas is the publisher of China Bites (www.china-bites.com) a daily newsletter in which he shares his take on what’s happening in China, and why it matters, plus some of his own views gathered from his daily activities. 

With a fast growing and active reader base and a strong following amongst business leaders, entrepreneurs and investors around the world who enjoy receiving a short and concise update on China every day, 

China Bites is carving out an important niche as a “must read” piece at the start of every business day. In addition to his regular China Bites, David has published a number of books, blogs and opinion articles on China, including:

• My China Insights: How Business Gets Done
• Three Cups of Tea – a practical guide to building long term sustainable relationships in China
• Eight Critical Steps for your China Market Entry Strategy

CONSULTANT

David is the Founder and CEO of Think Global Consulting, a consulting firm which facilitates business and investment between developed and emerging markets, particularly in China. 

Think Global works with individuals, entrepreneurs and business leaders to build viable, sustainable and powerful connections by leveraging experience, networks and relationships in the Asia Pacific region.

He has worked with businesses of all sizes across many industry sectors to deliver a wide range of cross-border projects and assignments, including research, market entry strategies, capital-raising, joint ventures, business development and facilitating long term commercial relationships.

Think Global’s approach is open, collaborative and focused on delivering results.

FACILITATOR

Over the past 20 years, David has led and organised many missions, study tours and business delegations to China and the other “BRIC countries” which, in addition to enhancing his reputation and influence within the Asia Pacific region, has provided him with a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the trends that are redefining business between China and the rest of the world.

Examples of successful activities over many years include:

• BRIC+ Study Tours (2005 to 2010)
• The Australian Mission to the Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong (2008 to 2016)
• The Citrus Australia China Trade Mission (2013)
• Fitzpatricks China Study Tour (2018)

I remember finding only one international hotel which was described as “friendly to foreigners” and seeing more bicycles on the road than cars. I have been back to Beijing many times since and am amazed at the transformation of this great city.

LEADER

As a well known speaker, influencer and business leader in the Australia-China investment and trade relationship, David Thomas holds a number of prestigious and high profile appointments, including:

• President of the Australia China SME Association (ACSME)
• Former Vice President of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC) in NSW
• Honorary Adviser to the Australia China Economic Trade and Cultural Association (ACETCA), 
• Chairman of Australia China Business Week
• Board Member of the Australia China Friendship and Exchange Association
• Australian Alumni of the inaugural Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business CEO Program
• Australian Thought Leaders Expert of the Year 2009