David Lau
About David Lau
David Lau serves as the Director of Practices and Co-chair of the Catalyst Award at Catalyst Inc., where he has worked since 2019. He specializes in gender and sexuality, identity, and inequality, and leads initiatives that promote workplace inclusion for women.
Work at Catalyst Inc.
David Lau has held multiple positions at Catalyst Inc. since 2009. He currently serves as Director, Practices and Co-chair of the Catalyst Award, a role he has occupied since 2019. In this capacity, he leads a global program that recognizes innovative organizational initiatives aimed at accelerating progress for women through workplace inclusion. Additionally, he has been a Senior Associate and Chair of the Catalyst Canada Honours Committee since 2009. Lau also works as Director of Corporate Engagement and Project Manager for the Catalyst Award since 2018. His experience spans various locations, including New York, New York, and Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Education and Expertise
David Lau has a diverse educational background. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Diversity Studies and Sociology from the University of Toronto from 2003 to 2006. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and East Asian Studies from the University of Toronto, completed between 1997 and 2001. Lau furthered his studies at the London School of Economics, obtaining a Master of Science in Sociology from 2006 to 2007. His expertise includes gender and sexuality, identity, inequality, economic and political globalization, media and content analysis, and both qualitative and quantitative research.
Language Proficiency
David Lau is fluent in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Cantonese. He possesses working proficiency in Spanish and Mandarin. This linguistic capability enhances his ability to engage with diverse audiences and contribute to global initiatives, particularly in his role at Catalyst Inc.
Professional Background
Before joining Catalyst Inc., David Lau worked at Citicorp Diners Club as a Credit Analyst from 2001 to 2003 and as a Disputes Officer for a brief period in 2003. His early career experience in the financial sector provided him with a foundation in analytical skills and customer relations, which he has since applied in his roles at Catalyst.
Leadership in Organizational Initiatives
In his current role, David Lau leads the development of strategic planning around case studies that highlight successful organizational initiatives. He creates opportunities to amplify stories within the corporate community, facilitating the sharing of best practices that promote workplace inclusion and diversity.