As Board Chair for Walk West’s Board of Directors, Donald Thompson provides the agency with strategic guidance and fiduciary oversight. He has overseen Walk West’s growth into a robust, integrated marketing agency that creates award-winning work for clients across multiple industries and verticals, including financial services, technology, retail, and more.
A multi-exit CEO with over two decades of experience growing companies, Donald is a thought leader on inclusive leadership, goal achievement, and influencing company culture to drive exponential growth. Throughout his career, he has left his mark on countless individuals and industries. Currently, he serves as CEO of The Diversity Movement, the agency he co-founded that seeks to fundamentally transform the modern workplace through diversity-led culture change.
Donald also holds additional prominent board appointments, including Chair of the Board of Directors for Earfluence and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Easterseals PORT Health North Carolina and Virginia. He also serves on the ECU Health Medical Center Board of Trustees, NC State University’s Computer Science Department Strategic Advisory Board, and the Swing Racquet + Paddle Advisory Board.
Donald frequently shares his expertise as a speaker, author, and podcast host. He contributes regularly to WRAL TechWire and hosts the High Octane Leadership Podcast. Recognized by Inc., Fast Company, Forbes, and other publications, he is the author of the award-winning memoir “Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success”. In addition, he co-authored the “Inclusive Leadership Handbook,” a vital resource for leaders aiming to foster inclusive work environments.
Donald has been recognized for his professional contributions many times, including the 2023 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Southeast Winner, the Raleigh Chamber’s 2023 Phil Freelon Award, and the Independent Press’s 2023 Distinguished Favorite Award.
To learn more, visit donaldthompson.com or follow him on LinkedIn.
