Bob MacDonald

About Bob MacDonald

As a strategic business leader with over two decades of experience in corporate strategy and development within financial institutions, I have a proven track record of solving complex challenges and accelerating growth. My expertise encompasses strategic planning, market analysis, financial modeling, and digital innovation.At Ameritas, working in close partnership with executive leadership, I shape long-term growth strategies, optimize capital deployment, and craft multi-year strategic roadmaps that positions the organization for success. My expertise includes conducting market analysis, competitive research, and strategic assessments to identify and evaluate new opportunities, including M&A, reinsurance, joint ventures, and partnerships. By leveraging financial modeling and competitive intelligence, I ensure informed decision-making that aligns with enterprise goals and delivers strategic returns.In my role as Head of Strategy & Corporate Development at Mutual of Omaha, I have aligned five autonomous business units under a cohesive enterprise strategy. I spearheaded the \"Vision 2050\" strategy, guiding long-term investments that have driven measurable financial and market success. Additionally, my leadership in M&A, partnerships, and capital allocation has resulted in a 3x market performance, double-digit revenue growth, and increased market share in key segments.Previously, as Managing Director of Enterprise Strategy at TD Ameritrade, I led enterprise-wide digital automation initiatives, reducing operational expenses by 30%, and played a pivotal role in executing the Scottrade acquisition and contributing to due diligence for the Charles Schwab merger.I am passionate about leveraging data-driven insights and compelling storytelling to drive corporate direction and deliver measurable results. I thrive in dynamic environments, leading high-performing teams to achieve strategic objectives and optimize performance.

Experience

1. Head of Strategy & Planning

   Ameritas

   Aug 2025 — Present · Lincoln, NE, US

   I lead the development and execution of multi-year strategic plans, aligning business priorities with market trends to deliver profitable growth, effective risk management, and operational transformation across product lines, distribution channels, and operations.

Education

• Thompson Rivers University

  Bachelor's degree

• Doane University

  Master's degree, International Business

• The Wharton School

  Executive Education, Securities Industry Institute (SII)