InvestOps USA 2026

March 9 - 11, 2026

JW Marriott Grande Lakes, Orlando

David Kavanaugh

David Kavanaugh

Global Head of Investment Operations Dimensional Fund Advisors

David is responsible for creating and maintaining an efficient operating model for Dimensional’s US and international business, including the launch of the firm’s mutual funds and exchange-traded funds as well as the full outsourcing of its middle office functions. David coordinates and provides oversight of Dimensional’s service provider relationships, including global transfer agents, accounting and administrative agents, custodians, and a complex network of service groups that provide middle office services to the firm’s primary and regional offices. He manages a team of professionals across multiple offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

Prior to this, David served as Dimensional’s Head of Global Client Group Operations. In this role, he managed the day-to-day operations of the firm’s Global Client Group in the areas of client onboarding, intermediary relationships, client reporting, and business data analytics. He also served as Head of Operations for Financial Advisor Services, the sales and distribution channel focusing on Dimensional’s RIA and wealth management clients. He spent his first three years at Dimensional as an attorney in the Legal department following seven years in private law practice at large firms in Chicago and Austin.

David earned a JD from the University of Texas School of Law in 2004 and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2001.

Main Day 1 | March 10th

12:00 PM Panel: Managing the complexities of Active ETFs: How can you scale the capabilities and teams needed to service Active ETF investment strategies?

  • What operational challenges make active ETFs more complex than passive ETFs?
  • How can technology and outsourcing support the scalability of active ETF servicing?
  • What lessons can be drawn from early adopters of active ETF strategies?

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining David.

Download The Latest Agenda