David Lao, CPA

David Lao is a finance executive specializing in strengthening financial management, improving operational effectiveness and leveraging digital technologies.

As Director of Financial and Procurement Operations within the Government of Canada, David led the development of the Public Service Commission’s first AI-powered agent, an initiative that was featured at the Treasury Board Secretariat Innovation Fair and in Global Government Finance.

He also led the department’s financial system modernization, enhancing financial controls and strengthening enterprise reporting. This transformative initiative received the 2025 Comptrollership Innovation Award from the Association of Canadian Financial Officers.

Beyond his professional role, David is deeply committed to community service. He served as a Community Board Member with Queensway Carleton Hospital, a member of CPA Canada’s Education and Qualification Advisory Committee, and Treasurer at Volunteer Ottawa.

The opportunity to make a difference first inspired him to become a CPA and continues to shape his leadership approach – one grounded in discipline, purpose and impact.