David Heathcote is a 20-year investment and international banking professional, the Global Head of Debt Advisory and a Global Lead Partner for one of the Australian firm’s Strategic Accounts in the Financial Services Sector. David joined KPMG from ABN AMRO Bank in 2009, where he initially led Australia’s Debt Advisory Services practice, advising borrowers on the arranging, structuring and procurement of debt facilities across multiple sectors and industries. Over the last six years, David has led Australia’s Deal Advisory and Corporate Finance teams. His current focus is on the expansion of KPMG member firms Debt Advisory presence in key markets where mature debt advisory practices already exist, including Australia, the UK, Germany, the US, the Netherlands, Spain, and Brazil, together with growing our presence in markets where there is currently limited on the ground capability. Additionally, he is driving technology solutions that are designed to further enhance knowledge sharing across the global network, helping to ensure KPMG Deal Advisory professionals can capture the rapidly growing alternative credit investor appetite to provide tailored solutions and deeper insights for clients no matter where they are based.
David made the successful transition from investment banking to professional services in 2009, after returning from the UK to lead the Australian Debt Advisory business. He now proudly states he has been at KPMG longer than any other institution during his career, which has allowed him to take on many diverse and challenging roles, including Service Group Head for Deal Advisory, Global Head of Debt Advisory and KPMG’s Global Lead Partner for the Macquarie Group.
It is not surprising David is in his element as the National Managing Partner for Deals, Tax & Legal. “I like the challenge of providing solutions where 1 + 1 = 3. It can be complex and challenging at the same time, but creating value and finding solutions for clients where others can’t is really very rewarding.” He also loves working in partnership with the firm’s clients, “where you are leveraging off different skill-sets to get an optimal outcome”.
Among other things, David’s years in the United Kingdom taught him how not to behave. “Witnessing the financial crisis in London first hand, you saw how important your own ethics and morals were in building sustainability and resilience in your work.”
David is very happy to spend his spare hours in the water, preferably surfski paddling or surfing. He also loves time with his family, including a beautiful Rhodesian Ridgeback called Ruby. “Our dog is definitely the fourth member of our family.”