Early Life and Education
David Smorgon OAM was born on May 8, 1947, into the prominent Smorgon family, one of Australia’s most successful business dynasties. Raised with strong values of entrepreneurship and philanthropy, David attended Brighton Grammar School. He later pursued a law degree, briefly practicing law before joining the family business at the age of 23.

Business Career
David spent 25 years as a senior executive and director at Smorgon Consolidated Industries (SCI), which was among Australia’s largest family-owned enterprises. The business spanned several industries, including meat, paper, glass, plastics, and steel. Under David’s leadership, SCI grew to become a household name, recognized for its innovation and business acumen.

After the staged divestment and sale of SCI in 1996, marking the end of a 70-year family legacy, David and his three sons—Dean, Ricky, and Dale—established Generation Investment Management. This private investment company focused on equity and property investments, as well as assisting global corporations with debt through innovative loan-to-own transactions. Among its clients were iconic brands like Bonds and the coin-operated entertainment business Ride On! Entertainment, where Ricky and Dale serve as executive directors.

In 1997, David became the inaugural chairman of Family Business Australia (FBA), a role he held for six years. During his tenure, he provided strategic leadership and guidance to family-run businesses across the nation.

In 2014, David joined PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia as Executive Chairman, leveraging his expertise to guide one of the world’s largest professional services firms. In January 2019, David founded Pointmade, where he serves as CEO, specializing in helping senior executives refine their communication and presentation skills.

Sports Administration Career
David Smorgon is perhaps best known for his transformative role as President of the Western Bulldogs Football Club. A lifelong supporter of the club, David assumed the presidency in 1996 following his leadership of the Bulldog Task Force. Over his 16-year tenure, David played a pivotal role in stabilizing the club’s financial future, fostering a culture of professionalism, and advocating for the club’s interests within the AFL.

Under his leadership, the club underwent significant changes, including:

• Rebranding from the Footscray Football Club to the Western Bulldogs.
• Adopting a new jumper design, logo, and home ground at Docklands Stadium from 2000.
• Revamping and redeveloping Whitten Oval in 2010.

David championed the Bulldogs as the “community club” of the AFL and was a vocal advocate for equalization policies to support smaller clubs. While his presidency did not see a premiership, the team achieved five preliminary final appearances and a resurgence in both on-field and off-field performance.

David stepped down in December 2012, concluding the longest presidency in the club’s history. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Footscray/Western Bulldogs Hall of Fame.

Philanthropy and Recognition
David has been deeply involved in various not-for-profit organizations, contributing to causes in health, social welfare, and education. In 2000, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his services to the Western Bulldogs and his broader community contributions.

In 2013, David was named Patron for SportsConnect, an organization dedicated to connecting business and sports communities.

Personal Life
David’s wife, Roslyn, passed away in 2008 at the age of 58 after a battle with cancer. Together, they raised three sons: Dean, Ricky, and Dale. David’s cousin, Graham Smorgon, is also a notable figure in Australian business and sports administration.

Today, David continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through his work with Pointmade, drawing on his vast experience to mentor others and share his rules for success. Known for his passion, resilience, and business acumen, David Smorgon remains a towering figure in both the corporate and sporting worlds of Australia.