Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Mr McDonald has vast experience in the marine and offshore sector and has worked with over 300 technology and life science companies and research institutions in the UK and around the world. He also holds a BSc in Technology & Business Studies from University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, as well as a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the Imperial College, London with a specialisation in the Management of Innovation.

More recently Mr McDonald held the position of VP Corporate Development, for Foster Moore Limited - a specialist developer of electronic registries for legislative and governmental agencies. The position saw him develop and execute Foster Moore’s business and market development plans, particularly in offshore markets.

From 2004-2007, Mr McDonald also held the position of CEO for Connect New Zealand – where key responsibilities were to enhance technology commercialisation and enable the growth of technology and life sciences companies in offshore markets.