Doug McDonald steps into the role after leading major job gains and corporate expansions across the city
Plano will welcome a new Deputy City Manager on December 1. The city has promoted Doug McDonald, its Economic Development Director, to the position after seven years with the organization and nearly three years leading Plano’s economic development program.
City Manager Mark Israelson announced the move in an official statement, calling McDonald’s work “a reflection of the high standards that define Plano as the City of Excellence.” Israelson added that McDonald’s “commitment and forward thinking” will continue as he transitions into the city’s leadership team.
Photo: City of Plano
A Track Record Of Growth And Business Wins
As Director of Economic Development since 2022, McDonald led a period of steady business expansion in Plano. According to the city, Plano has secured 21 projects over the past three years representing 7,200 jobs and $722 million in improvements. These projects included major corporate relocations, such as Sally Beauty Holdings and Simpson Strong-Tie, and expansions by Delta Electronics and Raising Cane’s.
McDonald also broadened Plano’s outreach across domestic and international markets, strengthening ties with companies considering new locations or expansions.
Strengthening Workforce Partnerships
Beyond corporate recruitment, McDonald directed updates to Plano’s economic development strategy to match post-pandemic workforce needs. That work included:
Launching a building modernization program for aging office campuses
Reestablishing workforce partnerships with Plano ISD and Collin College
Supporting small business programming
Expanding commercial real estate engagement
His team also kicked off the first Master Area Plan for the Legacy district, a long-term strategy aimed at guiding future development in one of Plano’s most recognizable business hubs.
What Comes Next
As Deputy City Manager, McDonald will continue overseeing Economic Development while taking on broader responsibilities across city operations. In the statement, Israelson said McDonald’s experience has “strengthened our business community, supported quality jobs for our residents and advanced strategic initiatives that keep Plano well positioned for long-term success.” The promotion places McDonald at the center of Plano’s economic and workforce priorities as the city continues to attract new investment and support quality jobs for its residents.
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