Navigating the Future of Tax Policy and Leadership with Tim McDonald

11/02/2025 36 min
Navigating the Future of Tax Policy and Leadership with Tim McDonald

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Episode Synopsis

Episode InformationGuest: Tim McDonaldTitle: Former VP, Global Taxes Procter and Gamble CompanyDuration: 36 minutesRelease Date: February 11th Episode DescriptionIn this insightful episode of Exposed, Tony Santiago speaks with Tim McDonald, former Global Head of Tax at Procter & Gamble, about the critical challenges facing tax functions in 2025 and beyond. As the second installment of the podcast, this episode dives deep into tax policy shifts, workforce development, and succession planning amid global tax reform pressures.Key Discussion Highlights:Macro-Level Tax Policy Challenges: McDonald explains why upcoming tax reforms will be more difficult than expected due to debt concerns and exhausted revenue-generating strategies from previous reforms.Generational Workforce Shifts: The tax profession is experiencing a leadership transition as baby boomers retire, with Gen X professionals facing unique challenges that may prevent them from stepping into top roles.The Future of Tax Structures: Insights into the potential introduction of GST-like tax systems and the critical need for balanced spending controls. Top Quotes:On tax reform challenges:"The current macro condition we have is such that tax reform is going to be much more difficult than people think." — Tim McDonaldOn debt & policy dynamics:"Tax executives must bring these debt and policy dynamics to their management and board's attention before it's too late." — Tim McDonaldOn workforce development:"Tax leaders need to bring their management and boards up to speed on these debt dynamics, or they'll be blindsided by policy changes." — Tim McDonaldKey Takeaways:Companies must rethink their tax strategies and leadership pipelines amid generational and fiscal challenges.The need for proactive communication with financial and HR leadership is critical to staying ahead of regulatory and workforce changes.Educating tax professionals on indirect tax exposure, such as GST, will be vital as global tax trends evolve.About the Guest Speaker: Tim McDonaldTim McDonald is a distinguished tax expert with a 40-year career spanning corporate leadership and tax policy. He recently retired as Global Head of Taxes at Procter & Gamble after 19.5 years and previously led tax functions at Baxter International. He began his career at General Motors Tax Counsel, contributing to the modeling of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, followed by 12.5 years in Big Four accounting. A CPA with a BSA from the University of Michigan and a JD from Wayne State Law School, Tim has served as an advisory board member for the University of Chicago Tax Symposium for 23 years, Co-Chair of the Alliance for Competitive Taxation for 15+ years, and member of PwC’s Tax Study Group for 25 years. His unparalleled expertise makes him a trusted voice in tax leadership and policy.Next Steps for Listeners:Evaluate your team’s leadership pipeline and skills readiness for potential tax system changes.Open proactive conversations with your board and management about the political and economic challenges highlighted in this episode.Continue following Exposed for more expert insights and actionable advice.Connect With [email protected]#TaxLeadership #CareerDevelopment #TeamManagement #CorporateTax #Leadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #TaxPolicy