
Dr David Bergmann
CEO
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Quals:BSc (Hons), PhD
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Memberships:AWA, RACI, AICD
David is the CEO of Water Research Australia, bringing nearly 25 years of experience in R&D across the chemicals, food, and water and wastewater sectors, from global multinationals to regional utilities. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from Monash University and is an AICD-qualified Company Director.
David is an experienced manager and people leader of large R&D teams, spanning diverse industries, cultures, and organisations. He joined the water industry in 2015 at Victorian utility South East Water, where he significantly expanded their research portfolio and partnerships. His notable contributions included the innovative Aquarevo water- and energy-saving estate, the development of pyrolysis technology to produce Biochar from biosolids with RMIT, and various IoT devices for real-time monitoring.
A holder of multiple patents and a collaborator in scientific publications on contaminants, alternative water, pyrolysis technology and biochar applications, David also has extensive leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector, including four years on the Board of WaterRA.
As a strategic and practical thinker, David excels in developing collaborative partnerships, leading high-performing teams, and translating research into real-world solutions.