Dr David Dobbin has extensive international business experience in the food and drink and packaging sectors and is currently Group Chief Executive of United Dairy Farmers, a leading UK dairy processor based in Northern Ireland. He is actively involved in promoting regional economic development and is Chairman of the cross border economic body, InterTradeIreland and serves on the Strategic Investment Board.

He has previously held a number of public and industry appointments including Chairman of CBI Northern Ireland and Chairman of the Prince's Trust in Northern Ireland. In addition to receiving the CBE in the 2005 Birthday Honours for his service to the agrifood and packaging industries, he was awarded an honorary Chinese citizenship in 1998 in recognition of his service to economic development in China and an honorary doctorate from Queen’s University Belfast in 2005 for his services to the economy.