#USA #New York #Ad Council #Sundial Media #Kirk McDonald

Kirk McDonald Steps into Leadership Role at Ad Council

NEW YORK, July 1, 2026 – The Ad Council has announced the appointment of Kirk McDonald, the Chief Executive Officer of Sundial Media & Technology Group, as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. This transition comes as Kirk succeeds Rita Ferro, the President of Global Advertising at The Walt Disney Company.

The Ad Council has been a leader in driving public awareness on pressing community issues for more than 80 years. With a focus on integrating branding and advertising efforts, the Board of Directors plays a key role in shaping impactful national campaigns on topics ranging from mental health awareness to skills-first hiring and adoption from foster care. Comprised of influential figures within advertising, marketing, media, and technology, the Board works collaboratively to enhance the Ad Council's initiatives and to further its impact across the nation.

As Chair, McDonald will collaborate with the Ad Council's leadership and the full Board of Directors to advance its mission of harnessing communications capabilities to address crucial societal challenges. Current Vice Chair Carla Hassan, Chief Marketing Officer at JPMorgan Chase, is set to succeed McDonald as Chair after his term.

In a statement reflecting on his new role, McDonald emphasized the importance of uniting various sectors to foster real progress: “I have always believed that our industry shines brightest when we unite to connect communities and ideas, driving meaningful change. The Ad Council has exemplified this ethos, and I am honored to take on the role of Chair and contribute to its important work.”

Lisa Sherman, President and CEO of the Ad Council, lauded McDonald’s proven ability to create impactful alliances: “Kirk has an exceptional track record of mobilizing individuals around significant ideas. His leadership style and insights are valuable assets as we continue to develop resonant campaigns that inspire action and lead to transformative change.”

As the CEO of the Sundial Media & Technology Group, McDonald spearheads a suite of prominent media brands and initiatives at the crossroads of culture, community, commerce, and technology. This portfolio features celebrated brands such as ESSENCE, Refinery29, AFROPUNK, and Beautycon, among others. McDonald’s career spans several decades, during which he has been pivotal in pushing forward media and marketing innovations. He has received acclaim as one of the Power 100 honorees of Ebony Magazine, and has been recognized by Empower as one of the Top 100 Executives for 2022-2023, as well as being featured in Adweek’s list of influential leaders in tech, media, and marketing. His expertise is frequently cited in various high-profile publications like The Wall Street Journal, Adweek, The Drum, and AdExchanger.

Kirk McDonald first joined the Ad Council Board in 2018 and has served as Vice Chair since 2023. He looks forward to continuing the important work at the Ad Council while embracing the mission of creating a more informed and engaged public.

About the Ad Council: The Ad Council focuses on gathering creative storytellers to enlighten and unite audiences through impactful communication. Over its extensive history, it has collaborated on some of the most memorable social impact initiatives, including initiatives such as Smokey Bear, and “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk.” To learn more or get involved with their campaigns, visit AdCouncil.org.

About Sundial Media & Technology Group: With over a century of storytelling experience, Sundial Media & Technology Group aims to redefine media for the future, transforming traditional models into technology-enabled frameworks. Its diverse offerings are designed to foster connection, influence, and economic opportunity, encapsulated in brands that are rooted in purpose and cultural relevance. For more information, visit Sundial Media.