Michael McDonald

An accomplished outcome driven executive leader with a proven background within the sports sector

Greater Sydney Area

About

A results-oriented strategic leader with proven experience in senior executive roles, nurturing high-performing teams, developing multifaceted commercial programs, managing complex operational projects and delivering sustained business growth. An engaging and personable leadership style that fosters an effective and progressive culture, able to drive complex outcomes through a diverse range of stakeholders from initiation through to successful completion. Excellent communication skills, a determined work ethic and positive attitude, with a focus on high performance and excellence.

Experience

  • General Manager at St George District Rugby League
    Sep 2025 - Present · 11 mos

    As General Manager of St George DRLFC, a proud 50% shareholder of the St George Illawarra Dragons, I am responsible for leading the Club’s administration and driving the implementation of strategies set by the Board to ensure the ongoing growth and success of the organisation. Key accountabilities include: - Overseeing the delivery of the Club’s strategic priorities across governance, pathways, participation, commercial development, and stakeholder engagement. - Leading and supporting a dedicated team to strengthen the Club’s pathways programs for both male and female players. - Working closely with the Junior League Board and Clubs to increase participation and engagement across the St George district. - Driving commercial growth through partnerships, sponsorship, philanthropy, and events, ensuring the Club is financially sustainable. - Building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships with the Dragons, NSWRL, local government, community partners and stakeholders across the Rugby League network. - Advancing strategic projects that create long-term benefits for the Club and its members. Proud to lead one of Rugby League’s most historic Clubs and districts, ensuring that St George DRLFC continues to provide opportunities for players, coaches, volunteers and the local community to thrive.

  • Business Consultant at Self-employed
    Oct 2024 - Sep 2025 · 1 yr

  • Group General Manager at Classic Sportswear
    Feb 2021 - Aug 2024 · 3 yrs 7 mos

    Driving the strategic vision and commercial growth objectives of these leading Australian apparel brands. Executive leadership role reporting to the Managing Director and shareholder group; achieved significant growth in revenue over the four-year period through a focus on business development, increased margin and profitability, product diversification, market expansion and retail growth. Leveraged well established contacts across the sporting sector to help build Classic Sportswear into the largest apparel partner across elite professional competitions NRL and Super Rugby in Australia and New Zealand. Oversaw the management, development and delivery of the Classic wholesale sales program to achieve budgeted revenue across the retail apparel market. Managing a small sales team, delivered an annual retail sales budget through key retailers across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Diversified the Classic service offering to evolve into direct consumer retail supply for select partners to increase overall business profitability, leveraging off established supply chain capabilities to increase revenue and margin. Led business development activities and participated in contract negotiations across major government and blue-chip national corporate clients for Dina Uniform Group, delivering large-scale corporate uniform and workwear solutions.

  • Group General Manager at Dina Uniform Group
    Feb 2021 - Aug 2024 · 3 yrs 7 mos

  • Business Consultant at Various Companies
    Feb 2019 - Feb 2021 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    Worked with key clients to develop and deliver a range of commercial, marketing, operational and strategic consultancy projects, primarily across the sporting sector. Primary clients included NSW Rugby League and Classic Sportswear. Conducted thorough market research and competitor analysis, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making. Assisted clients in navigating complex industry challenges by offering expert guidance and strategic recommendations. Delivered high-quality presentations, effectively communicating project objectives and results to key stakeholders.