David
Ackert, MA
Co-Founder & CEO
David Ackert, Co-Founder and CEO of Ackert, Inc. and its subsidiary PipelinePlus, is a trailblazer in business development for professional services. With over two decades of experience, he has shaped revenue acceleration programs for hundreds of firms worldwide, earning a reputation as a thought leader who makes growth feel both strategic and human.
His ability to distill complex BD challenges into practical, relationship-focused solutions has transformed how lawyers, consultants, and other professionals approach their work.
David’s vision has led to pioneering ventures like Legal Lift, the MLR100, MLR200, BDI, and exclusive Managing Partner Roundtables, alongside the innovative PipelinePlus software suite. His programs have earned “Your Honor Awards” in the U.S. and Canada, and his software has been spotlighted in NLJ’s “Technologies on the Rise.” A sought-after speaker, David keynotes at partner retreats, industry conferences, and lectures at USC’s Marshall School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University, and UCLA School of Law.
As the bestselling author of The Short List: How to Drive Business Development by Focusing on the People Who Matter Most, a 2025 Gold Nonfiction Book Award winner, David’s insights have resonated widely, appearing in the Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Above the Law, and more. His Market Leaders Podcast has claimed JD Supra’s Reader’s Choice Award for two consecutive years.
Beyond his professional impact, David is deeply committed to giving back. He volunteers as a Big Brother with Big Brothers and Sisters in Los Angeles and co-founded Voices in Harmony, mentoring at-risk youth globally. His work in Northern Uganda, featured in the documentary After Kony: Staging Hope, helped raise millions for health and education in underserved communities, earning him the “Difference Maker” award from Ithaca College.
With a master’s in psychology and a Fellowship at the College of Law Practice Management, David brings a unique blend of empathy and expertise to everything he does, inspiring professionals to build meaningful connections and lasting success.
Cut Through the Noise With The Short List
From the best-selling book by David Ackert, comes the proven framework that’s helped thousands of professionals focus on the relationships that fuel their growth. See how The Short List can work for you.
Coaching That Drives Measurable Growth
David partners with professionals at every level to clarify goals, prioritize relationships, and maintain strong momentum.
Let us know what you’d like to explore, and we’ll connect you with the next step.