Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic
David  Peterson

David Peterson

Burraneer

Summary

Experienced Senior Executive with a proven track record at Rentokil Initial Australia, excelling in strategic planning and operational leadership. Adept at driving growth through effective change management and strong people leadership, I have successfully integrated acquisitions and fostered high-performance teams, ensuring compliance and operational excellence.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Executive

GMP Recruitment
12.2019 - Current

We specialise in targeted and personalised recruitment, focusing on Senior Management, General Management, Operations, Sales, and Administration roles. By working closely with our clients, we gain a deep understanding of their business needs, culture, and goals—ensuring we identify and secure the right candidate for every role.

Chief Operating Officer

Rentokil Initial Australia
06.2013 - 11.2019

Chief Operating Officer (COO)
As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) I was responsible for leading the organisation’s day-to-day operations and driving the successful execution of its business strategy. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the COO plays a critical role in ensuring operational excellence and organisational growth.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily operational processes across all business functions.
  • Lead, manage, and develop staff to ensure high performance and accountability.
  • Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Manage budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation to support strategic priorities.
  • Ensure quality, compliance, and effective risk management across operations.
  • Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to achieve strategic goals and key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence.
  • Ensure the effective and successful integration of acquisitions.

Managing Director

Rentokil Pest Control - Pacific
07.2008 - 06.2013

As the Managing Director (MD) my role was to provide strategic guidance and leadership to achieve the organisation’s long-term goals. Responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, managing finances and resources, and driving sustainable growth, the MD ensures effective execution of board-approved strategies while maintaining compliance with regulations. I reported directly to the Asia/Pacific Managing Director.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide strategic leadership to deliver long-term growth and value.
  • Implement board-approved business strategies, plans, and policies.
  • Oversee daily operations, financial performance, and resource management.
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing executive and management team.
  • Foster strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and clients.
  • Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and governance requirements.
  • Monitor business performance and present reports and recommendations to the Board.
  • Drive innovation, change, and continuous improvement across the organisation.
  • Represent the organisation externally, acting as an ambassador for its brand and values.
  • Target, acquire and successfully integrate acquisitions

General Manager

Rentokil Pest Control Australia
05.2001 - 07.2008

I reported directly to the Asia Pacific Managing Director and before that, to the Australian Managing Director for Rentokil Initial.

Key responsibilities were very much aligned with my Managing Director role.

Area Manager

Rentokil Initial Australia
01.1996 - 05.2001

My role here was firstly responsible for Rentokil Pest Control operations in Victoria and South Australia. At the start of 1999 I moved across to the Initial operation and was responsible for 7 branches across Australia

Education

Kealba High School
Victoria

Skills

  • Strong people leadership,
  • Sales and Operational Leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Effective communication
  • Financial Management
  • Decision-making and excellent organisational abilities
  • Change Management
  • Acquisition integration

Timeline

Senior Executive

GMP Recruitment
12.2019 - Current

Chief Operating Officer

Rentokil Initial Australia
06.2013 - 11.2019

Managing Director

Rentokil Pest Control - Pacific
07.2008 - 06.2013

General Manager

Rentokil Pest Control Australia
05.2001 - 07.2008

Area Manager

Rentokil Initial Australia
01.1996 - 05.2001

Kealba High School
David Peterson