Meet the leadership team
Gauthier D'haenens, Founder
Christopher McDonald, Academy Director
Christopher McDonald, Academy Director
Gauthier is the founder and visionary behind HERIO, an ecosystem that bridges the gap between education, workforce, and industry. Born in Vietnam and raised in Belgium, he grew up navigating multiple cultures, languages, and identities — an experience that shaped his adaptability and sparked a lifelong passion for helping others find clar
Gauthier is the founder and visionary behind HERIO, an ecosystem that bridges the gap between education, workforce, and industry. Born in Vietnam and raised in Belgium, he grew up navigating multiple cultures, languages, and identities — an experience that shaped his adaptability and sparked a lifelong passion for helping others find clarity, purpose, and belonging. Fluent in five languages and self-taught without a traditional degree, Gauthier built his career from the ground up — moving from salesman to CEO, educator, and entrepreneur. Over the past decade, he has led teams, coached professionals, mentored students, and partnered with organizations across industries and continents - shaping an ecosystem designed to prepare the next generation to think critically, lead strategically, and thrive in a complex, rapidly evolving world.
Christopher McDonald, Academy Director
Christopher McDonald, Academy Director
Christopher McDonald, Academy Director
Christopher holds dual Master’s degrees in Education and English and brings over 30 years of experience leading international schools across the U.S., Canada, and Vietnam. As a university lecturer and seasoned academic leader, he has designed, directed, and delivered transformative learning programs that empower students to thrive in glob
Christopher holds dual Master’s degrees in Education and English and brings over 30 years of experience leading international schools across the U.S., Canada, and Vietnam. As a university lecturer and seasoned academic leader, he has designed, directed, and delivered transformative learning programs that empower students to thrive in global environments. With unmatched expertise in academic leadership, curriculum development, and cross-cultural education, Christopher plays a pivotal role in shaping HERIO’s vision and mentoring the next generation of leaders. His passion for excellence and lifelong commitment to education make him a cornerstone of HERIO’s global mission to bridge education, workforce, and industry.