David Cannafoglia

"The most valuable lessons are learned when the path ahead isn’t clearly marked."

David Cannafoglia, Executive Director of the Near Middle East Region at DB Engineering & Consulting, on Emotional Intelligence, Global Mobility, and Leading with Trust

David Cannafoglia’s professional path is one of calculated courage, constant reinvention, and a deep commitment to global impact. As Executive Director for the Near Middle East Region at DB Engineering & Consulting, David leads with clarity and resilience in one of the company’s most dynamic markets — a region shaped by ambition, complexity, and transformation.

His passion for engineering took root early. “I’ve always been fascinated by infrastructure,” he says. “The complexity of designing and building systems that support society — metros, railways, highways — that’s where my energy comes from.”

From his earliest roles as a design engineer to his current executive position, one theme has remained constant: a commitment to mobility — both professionally and geographically.

“I started working abroad at a young age, and that experience shaped me. Being an expatriate — adapting to different cultures, leading diverse teams — it forces you to grow up fast. You can’t hide behind rigid systems; you have to be hands-on, responsible, and constantly learning.”

A Broader Perspective: From Engineering to Systems Leadership

David’s career began in technical roles, but he quickly moved toward management — and then transformation. A pivotal moment came when he was invited to lead a 700 million euro system project dealing with rail systems, signaling, and rolling stock — a radical shift from the civil infrastructure he was used to.

“At first, it felt like a major departure — I was a civil engineer, used to concrete and steel,” he explains. “But stepping into systems gave me a complete, 360-degree view of the sector. Now, I can speak both languages — infrastructure and systems. That’s crucial in this business.”

This multidisciplinary fluency would become one of David’s greatest assets. It enabled him to bridge gaps between design and delivery, between technical experts and commercial stakeholders, and eventually, between continents.

Building Regional Presence in the Near Middle East

Today, David leads DB Engineering & Consulting’s operations in the Near Middle East and Africa — a region that includes some of the company’s most high-stakes, high-visibility projects. His role spans strategic development, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement, often in environments where trust and face-to-face interaction are paramount.

“This is a relationship-driven region,” he explains. “Success comes from consistent presence — having coffee with a client, listening, following up. It’s not just about contracts. It’s about trust.”

His technical background continues to be a key enabler. “Understanding engineering allows me to support both commercial and delivery teams. Whether it’s writing a proposal, managing a joint venture, or problem-solving with the client — I know what’s realistic and what’s not. That makes a big difference.”

In addition to project oversight, his role involves managing relationships with stakeholders, supporting business development, and working closely with partners and sister companies such as DB International Operations.

Leadership Tested by Crisis, Rebuilt Through Resilience

David’s leadership style is rooted in emotional intelligence and personal example. “People are motivated by more than just money,” he says. “You have to understand their motivations — and show up for them. I won’t ask anything from my team that I wouldn’t do myself.”

This people-first approach was put to the test during two defining projects: one in Libya and one in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The Libya project, derailed by civil unrest, resulted in financial losses — but it also served as a powerful lesson in geopolitical risk. “We couldn’t complete the work,” he recalls. “But it taught us a lot about contingency planning and the need for flexible, scenario-based strategies.”

In contrast, the GCC Railway Network Design project became a story of turnaround. When David assumed responsibility, the project had been nearly abandoned — payments had been outstanding since 2018, partner relationships were strained, and the client had lost confidence.

“Through persistent stakeholder engagement, pragmatic problem-solving, and a renewed sense of leadership — facilitated in part by changes on the client side — we managed to re-establish trust and deliver. Within a year, the project was back on track. That taught me that patience and presence can be just as critical as technical skills.”

Scaling with Purpose — Innovation, People, and Long-Term Vision

The Near Middle East is undergoing a rapid transformation — and David is at the heart of shaping its mobility future. His focus is on more than just infrastructure; it’s about building capacity.

“Countries here are developing rail networks from scratch. That’s a massive responsibility — and opportunity. We’re not just building tracks; we’re helping shape how entire populations move.”

Sustainability and digitalization are now front and center. “Clients want cleaner, smarter systems — from hydrogen technologies to intelligent asset management. We’re bringing DB’s global expertise into these conversations and co-creating solutions tailored to the region.”

David also emphasizes the importance of building diverse, resilient teams. “Flexibility, resilience, and technical depth are essential. The people who succeed here are those who can adapt quickly, solve problems, and work across cultures.

Defining Values: Curiosity, Courage, and Community

David’s professional mantra is simple: learn by doing — and learn from those around you.

“In the early stages of my career, I watched how the best people worked. I absorbed everything — and I applied it immediately. That principle still guides me today.”

He also champions the idea that career growth is about courage. “Between 20 and 40, you need to stretch yourself. Move abroad. Try new roles. Ask for responsibility. That’s where real growth happens.”

At DB E&C, he finds purpose in the blend of reputation, innovation, and collaboration. “It’s a global company that attracts people who care — about quality, about progress, about each other. There’s a lot of energy here, and it pushes you to stay sharp.

Shaping the Future of Mobility in a Region on the Rise

David’s message to young professionals is both pragmatic and hopeful. “Don’t chase the highest salary at the start. Chase experience. Work abroad. Learn from tough situations. That’s how you build a career that matters.”

For him, the Near Middle East remains a place of immense opportunity — and challenge. “It’s not easy. But if you want to grow fast, make an impact, and work on something meaningful, this is the place.”

From design engineer to regional leader, David Cannafoglia’s journey is a testament to adaptability, integrity, and the power of showing up — wherever in the world the job may take you.