Jay Macdonald was elected as Member for Thebacha in the 2023 Territorial Election.

Minister Macdonald brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the North. Born in Hay River, he has been a resident of Fort Smith since 1970. Minister Macdonald most recently served as the Manager of Forest Management Services with the Department of Environment and Climate Change with a diverse professional journey including running a successful business. Having over 25 years of business management experience and certified as a Journeyperson, Minister Macdonald’s expertise extends to logistics, capital project management and facility management.

Minister Macdonald’s commitment to community service is evident in his extensive volunteer work. He has served as a board member and chair of the NWT Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification Board, as a member of the Fort Smith District Education Authority, as president and board member of Fort Smith Minor Hockey for a decade and as a House Parent and Program Coordinator for the Western Arctic Leadership Program, reflecting his dedication to youth development.