Collective Brains Academy

David Merzel is a distinguished global sales  and marketing executive with over two decades of transformative leadership in some of the world’s most influential organizations. Throughout his illustrious career, David has been recognized for his visionary approach to building and expanding markets, driving business growth, and empowering teams to reach unprecedented heights. A dynamic and strategic leader, his career has been marked by an exceptional ability to bridge diverse markets, leading cross-fun ctional teams to success in an ever-evolving global landscape.

David’s professional journey began with Unilever, where he rapidly progressed through a series of increasingly senior roles. His tenure as Marketing Director at Unilever Foodsolution saw him lead the food portfolio in Belgium and Europe. In 2002, David joined Microsoft, where his career reached new heights over the span of two decades. As a Global Consumer Channel Sales Senior Director, he led the charge across more than 100 countries, managing an extensive portfolio that included iconic products like Xbox, Windows, Surface, and Microsoft 365. His forward-thinking approach earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious Microsoft Polaris Award, recognizing his exceptional contribution to the company's global sales efforts. His role as Regional Director for the Americas saw him achieve consistent year-over-year growth, doubling the modern mix for Windows across top retailers and partners like Best Buy and Lenovo.  Today, as the Founder and Principal Consultant of MD Consulting, David brings his wealth of experience to businesses navigating digital transformation. Through his consultancy, he continues to empower companies by providing tailored strategies that bridge the gap between traditional sales approaches and the digital future. His thought leadership, captured in his go-to-market strategy book, reflects his deep understanding of AI integration, sales enablement, and the changing global marketplace.

As a leader, David is also deeply committed to mentoring and building high-performing, diverse teams. His leadership style fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth, helping teams reach their full potential in competitive environments. David Merzel is more than a seasoned executive—he is a visionary leader who combines strategic insight with an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. His career stands as an inspiring example of how leadership, adaptability, and a passion for mentorship can drive success in both business and people, leaving an enduring legacy across every organization he has touched.