David Coletto

Infinitely curious, passionate, and eternally optimistic—these are just a few words to describe David Coletto, the founder, Chair, and CEO of Abacus Data. With a career spanning over two decades, David has devoted his life to exploring what people think and feel about their work, their lives, and their politics. He believes that understanding what motivates and informs people’s worldview, we can create a more understanding, empathetic, and action-driven world.

David is one of Canada’s best known and most respected public opinion analysts, pollsters, and social researchers. He works with some of North America and Europe’s biggest and most respected brands, associations, and unions and is frequently called upon by news organizations, to assess public opinion as events happen. In January 2024, The Hill Times recognized him as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Canadian Politics noting, “when David Coletto releases polling numbers, Ottawa listens.”

He speaks to thousands of people in audiences from massive national conferences to intimate briefings in boardrooms across North America and Europe.

“Coletto is the CEO of Abacus Data, and in my opinion the best pollster in the country…He has a knack for knowing exactly what people want and respond to.” – Ottawa Citizen, October 28, 2022

Earning a PhD in Political Science from the University of Calgary in 2010, David is an expert on survey research methodology, corporate reputation, public affairs, voting behaviour, and the intersection of public opinion and public policy. He is a professor in the Graduate Program of Political Management at Carleton University where he teaches courses in polling, political marketing, and designing public affairs strategies.

Outside of Abacus, David is also involved in his community. He’s a member of the Board of Directors of the Ottawa Board of Trade and Ottawa Riverkeeper and on the policy committee of Imagine Canada.

Obsessed with all things cycling, David brings his bike anywhere he can, exploring the landscape, food, and people of places all around the world. He is also active and a sponsor of Canada’s only professional cycling team Toronto Hustle.

He also curates and writes a personal newsletter – inFocus with David Coletto – that is read by thousands of business, political, and community leaders.