Kathy McDonald is a dynamic and visionary business leader with over a decade of experience steering growth, operations, and innovation across multiple industries. As a managing partner and operational strategist, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to performance excellence, people development, and sustainable business expansion. Her professional journey reflects a consistent pattern of entrepreneurial drive, creative problem-solving, and strategic execution—qualities that have earned her a strong reputation as a trusted and empowering leader.
Currently serving as Managing Partner at OX since 2016, Kathy has played an instrumental role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and day-to-day management. Under her leadership, the firm has not only grown in scope but has also significantly improved its operational systems, boosting both efficiency and profitability. Kathy’s approach to leadership is deeply rooted in collaboration and continuous improvement, which has enabled her to cultivate high-performing teams and successfully launch innovative brand campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences.
Previously, she brought her passion for customer engagement and community connectivity to Stumpy’s, where she directed business development and operations from 2019 to 2022. In this uniquely positioned entertainment and hospitality venture—centered around axe-throwing and experiential dining—Kathy was instrumental in expanding the business footprint. Her savvy market research, local outreach, and partnership-building with schools and nonprofits significantly broadened the customer base and deepened community ties, all while ensuring that day-to-day operations ran smoothly and profitably.
Kathy’s entrepreneurial journey began at First Guard, a security services firm she co-led from 2011 to 2016. As a managing partner, she was pivotal in shaping the company’s business development strategy, acquiring key clients, and driving steady revenue growth. Her ability to build strong relationships with both public and private sector partners contributed to high customer retention and a solid reputation for service excellence.
Throughout her career, Kathy has maintained a sharp focus on operational excellence and strategic expansion, while also valuing the importance of integrity, team leadership, and community engagement. Her core competencies span strategic planning, financial oversight, marketing and branding, and client relationship management—skills that have proven critical in scaling businesses and leading transformational change.
Kathy studied Real Estate at Riverside City College and Business Administration and Management at Saddleback College, equipping her with a well-rounded foundation in both entrepreneurial and corporate frameworks. Her academic background, combined with her extensive real-world experience, underscores her ability to adapt to new challenges and guide organizations toward long-term success.
Kathy McDonald is not just a business leader—she is a catalyst for growth, a champion of community, and a strategist with an eye for opportunity and a heart for people. Her career reflects the strength of combining operational rigor with personal connection, a balance that continues to fuel her success and inspire those around her.
Character
Kathy McDonald brings integrity, resilience, and a collaborative spirit to every venture she leads, fostering trust and unity across teams and partnerships through her grounded leadership style and dedication to excellence.
Knowledge
With over a decade of multifaceted experience in business development, operations, and strategic management, Kathy has cultivated a deep understanding of how to grow ventures, build lasting relationships, and optimize organizational performance.
Strategic
Kathy demonstrates a sharp ability to identify growth opportunities, implement innovative systems, and align resources effectively, leading to increased profitability, brand visibility, and sustainable business expansion.
Communication
Kathy excels at building authentic connections with clients, teams, and communities by articulating clear visions, listening actively, and fostering open dialogue that drives engagement and collective success.
