He has worked in a variety of roles in Wellington, including both Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) and uniform positions.
"I found a passion for drugs and organised crime work, spending over a decade working in the covert arena of policing. This time paved the way for my recent promotion as manager, National Drug Intelligence Bureau."
Macdonald says joining the intelligence community and understanding the profession has been a steep learning curve but one he has found rewarding.
Having the opportunity to develop New Zealand's drug early warning system, High Alert, has been a highlight.
"The work of this team genuinely contributes to reducing acute drug harm in our communities through prevention approach.
"Working in a multi-agency environment has challenged my thinking about what a genuine health-based approach to drug harm looks like and how much more work as a country we must do in this space."
In their service to the community, police get the opportunity to work with people who are often at a low point in life.
"I have found police staff, both sworn and civilian, to be incredibly compassionate and not afraid to address difficult circumstances.
"We all move through periods in time which are difficult and personally I have found you learn more about yourself in the troughs of life rather than standing at the peaks," he said.
"These experiences have helped me develop humility and compassion for the people we interact with."
