HDR has appointed Kate Macdonald as Associate Principal, Defence and Aviation, to bolster the Australian firm.
“I’m looking forward to pairing HDR’s global knowledge exchange with my Defence and aviation expertise to deliver human-centred projects that will enhance our minimum viable capability edge,” Macdonald said. “With challenging drivers for Defence infrastructure, I am committed to fostering collaboration with clients and contractors from the outset of a project – drawing on my people-centric approach and strong client relationships to deliver successful outcomes for all stakeholders.”
In the new role, Macdonald will collaborate with Architecture Managing Principal, Huai Lim; Federal Principal, Tim Napper; and the country’s architectural practice to deliver complex, highly technical projects and programs. Additionally, she will work with HDR’s global multidisciplinary practice – including building engineering, aviation and transportation – to meet the evolving needs of these highly technical sectors with integrated, high-performance solutions.
“Kate’s depth and breadth of experience will supercharge our Australian practice at a time when our markets and services are focused on delivering mission- and data-informed, human-centred projects that serve as a force multiplier for Defence,” Global Director of Federal Architecture at HDR, Susana Erpestad, stated. “It is a pleasure to have Kate on board at a critical time for Australia’s national security. We look forward to providing integrated solutions to clients as one HDR.”
Macdonald joins HDR from Cox Architecture. Prior to this, she spent 20 years as Director at Alasdair Macdonald Architects. With transdisciplinary experience across Defence, aviation, transport and tertiary education, according to HDR, Macdonald has delivered deeply technical projects for the Department of Defence, Qantas Airways Limited, Airservices Australia, Northrop Grumman, Transport for New South Wales, Newcastle Airport, Wagga Wagga Airport, Albury Airport, the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales.
Macdonald has designed everything from airport terminals to aerobridges, aircraft hangars, simulator training facilities, freight and logistics buildings, offices, amenities and associated ancillary buildings. Her work has culminated in the delivery of multiple commercial aviation, Defence aviation, and customer-centric projects.