David Graham is a global leader in innovation and operational excellence, with a career spanning two of the ten largest U.S. municipal governments. He has been the Global Civic Innovation Fellow at Harvard, and is a Designer in Residence at UC San Diego, where he empowers leaders to leverage cutting-edge technologies like AI, data-driven governance, and human-centered design to create transformative change. With over 25 years as a public sector executive, including service as Deputy Chief Operating Officer for the City of San Diego and as Carlsbad, CA’s first Chief Innovation Officer, David’s achievements include pioneering ethical AI frameworks, launching North America’s first all-electric car-share fleet, and designing strategies that align technology with organizational goals. A trusted advisor and keynote speaker, his insights have been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and the BBC. Known for his action-oriented and empathetic approach, David collaborates with public and private sector leaders to drive innovation, align teams, and navigate disruption. Whether coaching executives or shaping policy, David inspires leaders to achieve lasting impact in an ever-changing world.