David Catterall is a respected leader in civic engagement, equality, and community development, with a distinguished career spanning hospitality, local government, and the voluntary sector. His work has been instrumental in promoting inclusion, fostering civic pride, and driving national initiatives that celebrate excellence and service.
David began his professional journey in 1994 in the Hospitality and Catering industry, working both nationally and internationally before transitioning into local government in 2009 with Bury Council. Starting as a Civic Venue Manager, David progressed to become Head of Commercial Services, leading a workforce of over 600 employees and overseeing a diverse portfolio of services.
David’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and diversity was ignited in 2010 when he joined Bury Council’s LGBT Employee Group and became a Stonewall Role Model and Equality Ally. This experience shaped his career and personal mission to embed inclusion at the heart of everything he does.
Recognising the need for greater support for the LGBTQI+ community, David co-founded the Bury LGBTQI+ Forum, a registered charity dedicated to improving access to services and fostering inclusivity across the borough. The Forum plays a vital role in supporting individuals and advising organisations on best practices for equality. Under David’s leadership, the charity was honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), the highest recognition for volunteer groups in the UK, reflecting its profound impact on the community.
David also played a key role in developing Bury Pride, helping to establish it as a celebrated event that promotes visibility and acceptance. While Pride remains an important part of Bury’s cultural calendar, David’s focus has been on creating sustainable structures of support through the Forum and wider advocacy work.
His dedication to inclusion has earned him numerous accolades, including the Greater Manchester Chief Constable’s Citizen Commendation for Partnership Working, alongside multiple awards for volunteering and equality initiatives.
Beyond his work in equality, David serves as Chairperson of Annabelle’s Challenge, a national charity supporting families affected by Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS), a rare genetic disorder. The charity collaborates internationally to advance research, improve treatments, and ultimately find a cure.
In March 2022, David was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for Greater Manchester, and he now serves as District Chair for the Bury Lieutenancy, promoting civic pride and recognition through initiatives such as the King’s Awards for Enterprise and Voluntary Service, as well as the Honours system.
In 2024, David transitioned from local government to become Chief Executive of The National Association of British Markets (NABMA), where he leads efforts to champion and support markets across the UK working in Westminster and across the UK. He also serves as a trustee of Bury VCFA, reinforcing his commitment to strengthening the voluntary and community sector.