OCNews

David Knapp 

Director of National Business Development, CIBC 
OC Program of Study: Bachelor of Business Administration, 2001–2003 

After ten years in the tourism industry, David embarked on a career in financial services while completing his Bachelor of Business Administration. Progressive roles followed, including personal banker, mortgage advisor, branch manager and business development manager. From there, opportunities to explore new roles in start-up business development and community foundation leadership added new perspectives and experiences. He later returned to the financial services industry where he is now the director of national business development at CIBC where he supports frontline teams and leaders from coast-to-coast. In June 2023, David completed a Master in Leadership from Royal Roads University. In addition to his role at CIBC, he is a term professor at Okanagan College, teaching in the business faculty. Over the years, David has volunteered on committees at United Way and Habitat for Humanity, and served as a board member for the Downtown Kelowna Association and Centre for Spiritual Living.   

Highest level of education 
Master’s in Leadership from Royal Roads University.  

Describe your career experience and history 
After ten years in the tourism industry, working in golf clubs & resorts in Vancouver, and Relocating to the Okanagan in 2000, David embarked on a career in the financial services industry while completing his BBA at OUC in 2003. Progressive roles followed, including Personal Banker, Mortgage Advisor, Branch Manager, and Business Development Manager. Opportunities to explore new roles in start-up business development and Community Foundation Leadership added new perspectives and experiences. Returning to financial services in 2021, he is the Director of National Business Development at CIBC, supporting frontline teams and leaders from coast-to-coast. In June 2023, he completed a master’s in leadership from Royal Roads University.  

Describe your volunteerism and/or impact in your community 
Describing it as one of the most "transformative" skill-building experiences, he joined Toastmasters in 2004 and spent several years honing his speaking skills and supporting others to develop better communication. He took on a variety of leadership roles, including a role as Area Governor. Over the years, he volunteered on committees at United Way and Habitat for Humanity and served as a Board Member for the Downtown Kelowna Association and Centre for Spiritual Living.   

Achievement, honours or special recognitions you’ve received 
My family. 

Describe your personal achievements (family life, pastimes, etc.) 
I enjoy live musical theatre, and live music, so you'll often find me supporting local arts. I also am the drummer for Sista B and the Boyz, a local band that has been together for almost 20 years. I'm an avid cyclist, golfer and love to hike around the beautiful Okanagan. My wife Karen and I have just celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary, and we have a 16-year-old daughter, Rhiannon.