#USA #Virginia Beach #Global Development #Operation Smile #Scott McDonald

Operation Smile Appoints Scott McDonald

Operation Smile, a prominent global nonprofit focused on increasing access to essential surgeries, has announced the appointment of Scott McDonald as its Global Chief Development Officer. His primary responsibility will be to guide the organization's global development strategy and oversee fundraising efforts and partnership alignments that support Operation Smile's mission. This comes at a significant time as the nonprofit has recently launched Operation 100, a strategic initiative aimed at making surgical services more accessible to those in need worldwide.

Scott comes to Operation Smile with over 20 years of extensive experience in development across multiple sectors and continents. Prior to his current role, he served as Chief External Affairs Officer at Root Capital, where his efforts focused on driving resource mobilization aimed at enhancing climate resilience, advancing gender equity, and fostering economic opportunities in rural regions across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. His professional journey also includes key leadership roles at influential organizations such as the ONE Campaign, International Medical Corps, and the Guggenheim Museum.

In his new role, Scott will report directly to Kristie Magee Porcaro, Chief Strategy Officer at Operation Smile. She emphasized the importance of McDonald’s appointment at this pivotal juncture in the organization’s development efforts. “Scott's impressive background and unwavering commitment to mission-driven work are essential as we pursue our goal of making surgical care universally accessible,” Porcaro stated.

McDonald expressed his enthusiasm for joining Operation Smile, remarking, “I am excited to be part of the Operation Smile team, which is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable surgery. My two decades of experience in development, covering various funding modalities and sectors, reinforce my commitment to driving impactful solutions that can transform lives.”

Scott holds an MBA from Boston University and has completed master’s degrees from notable institutions, including the Royal College of Art in London and the University of Edinburgh. He also has participated in executive programs focusing on social finance at the University of Oxford and data analysis at the London School of Economics. His broad educational background underpins his drive for strategic innovation in philanthropy and partnerships.

Operation Smile Overview
The organization is dedicated to bridging the gap in access to necessary surgical care, starting primarily with cleft surgeries. By leveraging medical expertise, offering training and mentorship, and conducting thorough research, Operation Smile works collaboratively with local governments, health systems, and nonprofits globally. This commitment is made possible through the generous support of donors and corporate partners who share their vision for universal access to surgical interventions.

For more information on Operation Smile and its initiatives, visit operationsmile.org. McDonald’s leadership comes at a crucial time as the organization strives to fulfill its mission of providing surgical care for those who need it most, impacting the lives of millions around the world.