Haley McDonald
CEO + Founder of 3P Studio Group
A career spanning 20 years in post production, Haley worked as first an Editor and later an animator before launching 3P Studio in 2016. Her editorial credits include Coke, Myers, Flight Centre, Nike, Subway and McDonalds. As well as music videos for some of Australia’s most popular bands Powderfinger, Silverchair and Eskimo Joe.
The recipient of multiple national and international awards, Haley is now the proud CEO and Founder of 3P Studio Group. She has built a reputation of excellence and swift thinking to successfully deliver top work on deadline - making 3P Studio one of Australia’s fastest growing animation and VFX companies.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
I have always loved working in Film & TV however I started working for myself after I was made redundant after returning from Maternity leave. It really forced me to put myself out there as a freelancer and learn how to hustle. I never wanted to be in a position where someone was in charge with determining my worth so I went into business for myself and have never looked back.
What was your journey and where are you headed in your career right now?
I’ve proudly grown 3P studio from humble beginnings in my husbands man den with just myself to a work force of 25 full time producers and artists in 2024. We have been able to grown= our brand over the years to across not only Brisbane advertising but we have pushed hard interstate and have also set up our New Zealand arm and now see ourselves working with all the top 10 agencies across AU, NZ and Jopan. Artist owned and operated is the ethos at the core of everything we do.
Your favourite food for thought
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
Miscarriage Rebelión – Sam Payne Pink Elephants Foundation. 3P is a proud partner of The Pink Elephants foundation that supports women and their partners in Early Pregnancy loss.
Having had my own long journey I am very passionate about these guys so this is def a poddy on the list for us. ( we also produce it)
What drives and inspires you
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspo was my late mum. She worked in a hospital laundry for 30 years – from starting on the floor in the 1970s in Tamworth to making her way up to the head of the Northern Rivers Hospital Linen Service by the time she was forced to retire due to her poor health. She later told me this was one of the saddest days for her when she had to stop working.
In the 90s our mother was diagnosed with Addison’s Disease and ended up joining the Addison’s Association of Australia where she was amazed to find that she was the only person with the disease in Australia still working in full time employment – our mother’s work ethic was unbelievable.
She was so well respected and loved by everyone who worked with her I don’t think there would have been one person who didn’t love and respect my mother – she loved working – and she loved the people that she worked with – they became her closest friends.
What are your core values?
- Authenticity
- Courage
- Integrity
- Vision
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
I just know how hard it was for me over the years to rise and grow my business and I am very passionate about giving back to others.
What are the top skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
- Direct
- Great listener
- Present
Ready to be a part of Assisterhood as a Mentee?
We are now up and running in QLD and VIC – and we’re only just getting started! Let’s shoot for the stars – together!