His work begins with people, a human scale, and is shaped by a value and principles-based thinking and practice. Partnerships and active participation are central, and Donald is a long-term advocate and practitioner of the importance of culture, public and open spaces, heritage, diversity, circularity, and co-production.

He has held a number of long term leadership roles including at Tate Modern, Borough Market and Better Bankside BID. He has played a central role in the ongoing urban renewal and transformation of London’s Bankside, Borough and South Bank District into a global destination and one of the most vibrant mixed cultural, business, and residential districts in the world. Central to his work is the connection and meshing of community, culture, and business which he believes are fundamental elements in ensuring vibrant communities and places.

Donald was acting Director of Tate Modern during 2011/12 and Curated the Turbine Hall Commission 2018 One Two Three Swing, with artists Superflex, attracting over three million visitors. He was a leading member of the client teams that delivered Tate Modern Extension (2016), Transforming Tate Britain and Borough Market Thameslink redevelopment.

As the current Chair of Creative and Cultural Skills he leads the organisation which supports the UK Cultural Sector by shaping skills, education and employment best practice. He is committed to ensure that opportunities to access and develop creative skills are available to all.

Donald works as an advisor and independent consultant with cities across the world on innovative urban, cultural and social development. This has ranged from advising the Australian Government on The Bays Precinct in Sydney, Cultural District development in Panama with the International Development Bank, establishing BIDs in Malaysia & Albania, working with the Turkey Anatolian Archaeology & Culture Institute and creative economy development in Brazil. He currently Chairs the M7 International Alliance of leading historic food markets.