David McDonough is a highly accomplished executive with over three decades of experience in the medical devices, medical products, and healthcare technology industries. As President of Northgate Technologies, Inc., he has led a remarkable transformation, driving revenue from $7 million to $21 million and improving EBITDA from a $500,000/year deficit in the three years prior to his joining to $5 million in just five years—an achievement realized without additional capital investment or new product launches. His ability to strategically reposition businesses, optimize operations, and drive sustainable profitability has solidified his reputation as a visionary leader and catalyst for growth in the medical technology space.
David has an exceptional track record of pioneering product innovation, market expansion, and business development. Under his leadership, Northgate Technologies achieved FDA 510K clearance within six months for a groundbreaking laparoscopic smoke removal system, underscoring his ability to accelerate product development and navigate complex regulatory pathways. He also spearheaded the acquisition and successful integration of Allotrope’s StimSite technology, further enhancing the company’s portfolio and market competitiveness. His deep expertise in sales and marketing strategy, contract negotiations, and stakeholder engagement has led to the successful execution of multimillion-dollar agreements with global medical device companies, securing two separate, multi-year contracts worth $16.3 million and $10.6 million respectively.
Prior to his role at Northgate Technologies, David served as vice president of marketing at Medline Industries, where he managed marketing strategies across 21 product divisions and 42 product lines, driving 147% profit growth and a 262% increase in revenue. His leadership at Medline was instrumental in revitalizing underperforming product lines, optimizing sales strategies, and enhancing workforce engagement. He also served as CMO and CEO for DosentRx, an Israeli medtech startup where he created the brand and launched a digitally connected oral medication dispensing device MedTech startup, executing n=40 feasibility study resulting in 95% acceptance and 10x improvement in adherence, securing first human trial with Top 10 pharma company with 100% favorable results and closing a $350K seed round of financing. Earlier in his career, he held key leadership positions at Hollister Incorporated and Baxter International, where he honed his expertise in global marketing management, strategic product placement, and business transformation.
David’s leadership and contributions to the industry have earned him multiple prestigious awards, including ‘22 & ‘23 Innovation of the Year (SLRS), ‘23 & ‘24 Edison Award Winner, ‘23 Top Surgical Device Company by MedTech Outlook, and the Surgical Robotics Award in 2023. He is recognized not only for his ability to drive financial and operational success but also for fostering high-performing teams, establishing a culture of accountability, and implementing strategic initiatives that ensure long-term business sustainability.
A sought-after thought leader in the medical technology industry, David has presented at international conferences, including MedTech World in Malta and Houston, sharing insights on healthcare innovation, product commercialization, and market positioning. He has also contributed to the field through several patents, demonstrating his commitment to advancing medical technology solutions. His international business exposure spans Japan, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Canada, Sweden, Isreal, and Brazil, giving him a global perspective on healthcare market dynamics and industry best practices.
David holds a bachelor’s degree in general engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and an MBA from Eastern Michigan University. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is passionate about golf, sand sports, and outdoor activities, which reflect his competitive nature and drive for excellence.
Now at a pivotal point in his career, David is seeking board roles where he can leverage his extensive experience in strategic planning, operational leadership, and business growth. With a proven history of turning around companies, securing high-value partnerships, and driving market innovation, he is uniquely positioned to provide board-level insights and executive guidance to organizations looking to scale, optimize operations, and achieve industry leadership. His ability to identify growth opportunities, drive execution, and navigate complex business challenges makes him an invaluable asset to any board or executive leadership team.
Character: David McDonough is a results-driven and principled leader known for his integrity, resilience, and ability to foster high-performing, accountable teams.
Knowledge: With over 33 years of experience in the medical device industry, he possesses deep expertise in business transformation, product innovation, regulatory compliance, and market expansion.
Strategic: He has a proven ability to develop and execute growth strategies, successfully turning around businesses, driving revenue increases, and securing multimillion-dollar contracts.
Communication: A skilled communicator and industry thought leader, he effectively engages stakeholders, negotiates complex deals, and delivers impactful presentations at global MedTech conferences.
