His research connects theory with practice, advancing understanding of sustainable careers, employability, career development, and inclusive practice.

Recognised in the Stanford/Elsevier World’s Top 2% of Scientists list for the past two years, Will has published widely in leading journals including Academy of Management Learning & Education, Journal of Vocational Behavior, Career Development International, Personnel Review, and Studies in Higher Education. His ideas also reach practitioner audiences through Times Higher Education, The Conversation, University World News, Career Matters, and Career Wise (CERIC Blog).

Drawing on both his earlier career as a graduate recruiter in the City of London and his lived experience as an autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic academic living with chronic health conditions, Will brings a distinctive perspective to how people navigate changing careers and workplaces. In 2024, he was recognised in the Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 for his contributions to education and research.

Will is Co-Editor-in-Chief of Career Development International, one of the world's leading journals in career development. Previously serving as Senior Editor (2024–2025), he led the introduction of the journal's Practitioner Insights section to strengthen connections between research and practice.

In 2026, he delivered the opening keynote at the Asia Pacific Career Development Association (APCDA) Conference and provided written evidence to the UK Parliament Work and Pensions Committee inquiry ‘Employment Support for Disabled People’, which was published as part of the evidence informing its report ‘Employment Support for Disabled People: Disability at Work’.

Alongside his academic roles, Will leads Donald Research & Consulting, where profits are reinvested into research, knowledge exchange, and initiatives that inform policy and professional practice.

Follow Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willdonald/

Learn more about Will’s work: https://professorwilldonald.wordpress.com/