Killian Grace MacDonald

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT KILLIAN GRACE MACDONALD

I\'m a narrative futurist and multimedia creator specialising in data-driven storytelling and genAI technologies. I\'m committed to preserving the tales of old in innovative ways while fostering dialogues that not only resonate on a global scale but also honour the richness of local traditions and insights.As a Senior Associate Director and European Lead for AI Business Solutions at APCO Worldwide, my role extends beyond facilitating growth and program integration; it\'s about inspiring innovation within and beyond APCO, particularly through the lens of narrative and technology. My previous APCO experience varies from shaping executive strategies as Deputy Chief of Staff and chairing APCO’s North America DE & I Council to engaging in multicultural VIP stakeholder dialogue. This is complemented by my hands-on international experience with clients and stakeholders across diverse markets like China, India, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S.For me, creativity is both a profession and a passion, and I am currently seeking representation for my debut young adult novel. I\'m also a co-author of The Kepler Files, debuted as a playwright with The Wonderland Report at Bedlam Theatre, and served as Producer of Edinburgh Studio Opera\'s Die Fledermaus. I\'m proud of my continuing contributions to both the preservation of Scottish intangible heritage and protecting Scotland\'s future, whether through my time as former curator of World Economic Forum\'s Global Shapers Edinburgh Hub, serving on the committee for the Clan Donald Society of Scotland, or training as an apprentice Traditional Scottish Storyteller. I hold a dual B.A. in Public Communication and Religious Studies from American University and an MSc in Narrative Futures: Art, Data, and Society from the University of Edinburgh’s Futures Institute. My research into the application of generative AI for creating multimedia fantasy worlds was shortlisted for a Creative Edinburgh 2023 award. My certifications include the McKinsey Management Programme, the Digital Marketing Institute and the Protocol School of Washington.