David Payne

I moved into the tech startup and scaleup world eight years ago, after spending twelve years in consulting and banking. Since then, I’ve settled into the Product function and am currently in my third Head of Product role. While I operate within Product Management, I still approach everything from a strategy-first perspective. My focus is on helping businesses find true product-market fit, zero in on underserved needs, and seize opportunities that align with their unique strengths. I’m particularly passionate about navigating the tricky balance between taking cautious early steps and setting up for scale when things start to work.

Right now, I’m helping to build Timebook—software designed to support disruptive companies in “building the right thing” and enabling entire organizations to act responsively and drive outcomes. I work closely with founders and early-stage teams to sharpen Product Strategy, maximize the potential of emerging Product and Tech orgs, and embed agile principles into every facet of business decision-making.