Why Character Counts with Former Secretary of Veterans Affairs Bob McDonald

“My life’s purpose has been to improve the lives of others.” Bob McDonald spoke those words after being nominated to become the 8th U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Bob’s career exemplifies service-driven leadership as a distinguished graduate of West Point, a U.S. Army captain, and the former Chairman, President, and CEO of Procter & Gamble through and beyond the Great Recession. Join us for a deep dive into the pursuit of purpose through service, transformative leadership through character, and innovation through growth strategies on the next episode of Off the Rak. 

About the Guest

Robert A. “Bob” McDonald exemplifies service-driven and innovative leadership, with deep roots in values forged early in life. Born in Gary, Indiana, and raised in Chicago, Illinois, McDonald’s disciplined foundation began at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated in the top 2% of his class with a degree in engineering. Following his graduation, McDonald served as a U.S. Army Captain in the 82nd Airborne Division, earning the Ranger tab and Airborne wings during his military career.

As the former Chairman, President, and CEO of Procter & Gamble (2009–2013), McDonald was at the helm during one of the company’s most transformative periods. He led efforts to expand P&G’s reach, adding nearly one billion new customers while achieving consistent organic sales growth of 3% annually. Under his leadership, the company prioritized innovation, focusing on customer-centric product development and geographic expansion. McDonald championed sustainability, embedding environmental responsibility into the company’s strategy, and streamlined operations to drive efficiency. His visionary approach ensured P&G maintained its status as a global leader in consumer goods while adapting to changing market dynamics.

In 2014, President Obama appointed McDonald as the eighth United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. During his tenure, he enacted critical reforms, including halving veteran homelessness, reducing the disability claims backlog, improving same-day access to primary and mental health care, and modernizing the VA’s medical supply chain. His leadership significantly enhanced the veteran experience and the operational efficiency of the VA.

A West Point Distinguished Graduate (2017), McDonald’s contributions extend internationally. He was honored with the Public Service Star by the Republic of Singapore for his work in developing Singapore as a global hub. 

Beyond his accolades, his unwavering dedication to service and leadership continues to inspire, as witnessed in the global McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character held annually at West Point. 

Bob McDonald’s career is a testament to purposeful innovation, transformative leadership, and a lifelong commitment to service.

Links in this Episode

Follow Bob McDonald online here:

• https://www.robertmcdonald.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/people/Bob-McDonald/
• https://x.com/Bob_McDonald75
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-mcdonald-188b2a193/

Learn more about Off the Rak and watch past episodes at waltrakowich.com/offtherak

Follow @waltrakowich on Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook | X | YouTube | Threads