Who is David Mace?
Born, bread and raised in Chappaqua, New York, I moved to Dallas, Texas in 1989 after graduating from New York University, London School of Economics and Emory University School of Law. After 10 years of private practice where my practice focused on representing technology clients, I moved in-house with my first company and never looked back. Since then I have managed Legal Departments for a variety of technology organizations, including the U.S. departments of 5 non U.S. conglomerates (German, Israeli, Korean, Italian, Canadian).
Tell us more about your role in ETC (Electronic Transaction Consultants).
I manage the legal, contracts and compliance functions for ETC. In that role, I ensure that our internal clients are provided with practical, value added advice. It is important to keep the business moving forward while mitigating and minimizing the risk to the organization where possible.
What is the most difficult part of your job? But the most rewarding one?
That is simple; mentoring young talent so that they flourish and grow to become the next leaders in our organization. It is a hugely important role. One not to be taken lightly. Our people are our most valuable asset. Like a flower, they need, care, feeding and watering to grow.
Is there anything that you would change about your professional path?
I would have liked the opportunity to spend a few years as a clerk for a Judge.
What’s your key strategy for the development of your company?
My strategy is to be proactive and forward thinking and work to be a guide as the company maneuvers though mine fields such as cyber attacks, the ever changing regulatory environment and privacy/data rights.
What do you think about the next period of time, keeping in mind the pandemic and the new business climate? How will your industry be affected?
This is a booming period for our organization and our industry. Congestion pricing, infrastructure funding, consumer safety are more important now than ever.
Please name a few technologies which have the greatest impact on your business.
Artificial intelligence, cyber security.
What books do you have on your nightstand?
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. The Odyssey by Homer. Ivanhoe by Walter Scott.