THE INSIDER'S PERSPECTIVE FOR THE ASIAN CENTURY
Speaker • Author • Strategic Advisor
Most Western leaders view the rise of Asia through the lens of headlines and spreadsheets. David Thomas views it through the lens of experience.
The Legacy Story
His perspective is shaped by a unique proximity to the historic shifts of the late 20th century. While David was establishing his own professional career in the 1980s and 90s, he had a front-row seat to history. His father, Michael Thomas CMG QC, served as the Attorney General of Hong Kong, and his stepmother, Baroness Lydia Dunn, played a pivotal role in the high-level negotiations between Margaret Thatcher’s government and China’s top leadership, including Deng Xiaoping.
Observing these high-stakes diplomatic and economic transitions from the inner circle gave David a rare masterclass in how East and West converge. He didn’t just read about the “Asian Century”; he was a firsthand witness to the strategic bridge-building that made it possible.
Today, David is a world-renowned speaker, author, and strategic advisor who translates that “insider” legacy into actionable growth for the West. With over 30 years of experience navigating the corridors of power and commerce in China and the wider Asia-Pacific, he has become the definitive guide for investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders looking to bridge the cross-cultural divide.
WHY LEADERS LISTEN?
David is known for his unique ability to simplify the complex.
Whether he is addressing a boardroom of C-Suite executives or a hall of ambitious entrepreneurs, he moves beyond the “China vs. The West” binary to reveal the nuanced opportunities within the ASEAN, BRIC and Asia-Pacific ecosystems.
His track record is backed by:
A Massive Library of IP
Author of 10 books and over 500 articles on trade, investment, and cultural intelligence.
A Proven Track Record
Over 150+ endorsements from global peers who credit David with “opening doors that seemed permanently locked.”
Strategic Vision
A pioneer in identifying the shift from “low-cost manufacturing” to “high-tech innovation” across the region.
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 geo-political, economic and social changes taking place within the Asian region.
As a keynote speaker and thought leader on investing and doing business in Asia, David is a charismatic, warm and engaging presenter with a unique ability to demystify a region that remains challenging and often confronting to western business leaders.
AUTHOR
As a regular follower of news, business trends and commentary from Asia, David Thomas has published twelve books on the topic of doing business in China and the Asian region, including:
- The Gateway – West-East working together for a better future
- Year of the Rat – 2020, a year like no other
- Three Cups of Tea – the art of building relationships in Asia
- Eight Critical Steps for your China Market Entry Strategy
- The Ultimate Guide to Entering the China Market for SMEs
- Five Reasons to Invest in China
- My China Insights: How Business Gets Done
BEYOND THE PODIUM
As a consultant, entrepreneur and mentor, David doesn’t just talk about strategy — he implements it. He spends his time facilitating high-stakes business missions, advising on capital raising, and helping Western brands find their “Deep Niche” in the world’s most dynamic economic engine.
For David, the Asian Century isn’t a threat to be managed; it’s the greatest commercial opportunity of our lifetime.
He’s here to make sure you’re ready for it!