ABOUT RDP
Personal, practical, and deeply human.
r. david persson (david or rdp) is an executive coach, leadership development facilitator, and human resource leader with over 25 years of experience spanning technology, entertainment, and non-profits in Seattle, Austin, and across the globe. A creative, high-energy leader and coach, David partners with individuals and organizations to help them grow into their next level—through their own discovery and momentum.
Coaching with rdp
With a sharp eye for blind spots and a deep well of empathy, david helps leaders uncover what’s getting in their way and move forward with clarity and confidence. He believes in the power of strengths-based coaching and pattern recognition to unlock leadership potential and amplify the talent across teams and organizations.
Known for his engaging, positive, and thoughtful style, David creates dynamic coaching spaces where clients can challenge themselves, explore boldly, and scale their impact.
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He’s worked with leaders at every level—from early-stage startups to global enterprises like Microsoft and Amazon, as well as mission-driven nonprofits. During his time at Amazon, David held a variety of roles: from leading global HR teams for AWS tech businesses, to shaping compliance and opportunity programs in South Africa, to building internal leadership development programs and executive coaching for Amazon’s Director and VP populations. As a founding member of the internal executive coaching practice, he helped launch and deliver coaching programs that became integral to the company's leadership culture.
David has logged hundreds of coaching hours with senior leaders at the VP and Director level, both within and beyond Amazon. He’s a certified internal executive coach through the Hudson Institute of Coaching and works under the International Coaching Federation guidelines as he continues his education toward Professional Certified Coach. He has a practice grounded in real-world leadership, strategic HR insight, and a passion for helping people grow.
Why Red Truck?
People ask, “Why Red Truck Leadership?”
Simple—I own a red truck. A 1971 Chevy C10 Stepside. It’s more than a classic; it’s family. Passed down from my uncle, who built a business with my grandfather, it represents legacy, hard work, and evolution.
The truck’s been repainted, restored, and still gets things done. It’s not perfect—it needs tuning and care. But it keeps moving forward. Just like us.
That’s the metaphor: we build on what came before, keep what matters, and keep evolving. Leadership is no different. We work with what’s core, adjust what no longer fits, and move with clarity and purpose.
Red Truck Leadership is about that journey—honoring the past, tuning the present, and driving forward with intention.
Strategic partnership without the full-time overhead.
I help leaders, creatives, and everyday humans grow into their next level. Whether you're navigating transition, stepping into something new, or just feeling ready for a reset, you're in the right place.