Stories and facts
Daniel McKorley, a prominent figure in the world of business and philanthropy, was born in La, Accra. His journey to success is a testament to his determination and resilience. After completing high school, McKorley had dreams of pursuing higher education at the University of Ghana. However, financial constraints forced him to drop out. It was a setback that didn't deter him; instead, it fueled his determination to succeed.
Fifteen years later, with unwavering resolve, McKorley finally realized his dream of obtaining a degree. He holds a diploma in Leadership from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, furthering his educational pursuits with a BSc and EMBA in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). His dedication to education was also recognized with an honorary doctorate from the London Business School. Additionally, he boasts an impressive array of post-graduate certificates in entrepreneurship, leadership, transport, and logistics, among other fields of study.
McKorley's illustrious career as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the McDan Group of Companies is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. He founded the McDan Shipping Company in November 1999, a venture that has grown to have its headquarters in Accra, with branches in Tema and Takoradi. Today, the company boasts a global presence, serving over 2000 major air and sea ports worldwide, thanks to strategic partnerships with Universal Freight Organization, Cross Trades, and World Cargo Alliance (WCA).
Beyond business, McKorley is a dedicated philanthropist, committed to giving back to his community and supporting various causes. Notably, he presented an air-conditioned Benz Bus (Sprinter) to the Ghana Tennis Federation during the McDan Tennis Open West African Championship held at the Accra Stadium in May 2017. His generosity also extended to the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) when he contributed GH¢10,000 in support of the 2017 SWAG Awards Night at the Banquet Hall of the State House. In September 2021, he stepped up to support actor Psalm Adjeteyfio with a donation of GH¢5,000.
McKorley's contributions to society have not gone unnoticed, earning him various honors and recognitions. He received the Achievers Award by West Africa Regional magazine and was nominated as an Ernst & Young entrepreneur of West Africa in 2015. In 2016, he was honored as the Entrepreneur of the Year, and in 2013, he received the Freight Forwarding and Entrepreneur of the Year award. Furthermore, he was named the CIMG Marketing Man of the Year in 2017.
On a personal note, Daniel McKorley is a family man, married to Abigail McKorley and Roberta McKorley, and they are blessed with children.
However, it's worth noting that McKorley's journey hasn't been without its challenges. He faced legal troubles and was convicted by the Accra High Court for contempt. The court found him guilty of deliberately disobeying orders related to a disputed parcel of lands at East Legon, resulting in a fine of GH¢40,000.
In a remarkable turn of events, the McDan Group of Companies, under McKorley's leadership, expanded its horizons by opening its first private jet terminal at Kotoka International Airport in Accra in January 2022. This venture into aviation marked a strategic move to boost business and tourism in Ghana. The McDan Commercial Private Jet Services caters to high-end clients and corporate executives looking for luxury and efficiency in their travel.
McKorley's vision for the aviation business goes beyond convenience; he also aims to provide employment opportunities for more than 400 Ghanaians. The company has plans to acquire additional aircraft, including a Challenger 604 Bombardier, a Gulfstream jet, and helicopters, to offer air-ambulance medical services and promote domestic tourism.
Daniel McKorley's journey from a high school dropout to a leading Ghanaian entrepreneur is a testament to his unwavering determination, commitment to education, and dedication to philanthropy. His contributions to the business world, his community, and society at large make him a remarkable figure in Ghana's landscape. Despite facing legal challenges, McKorley continues to expand his business empire and create opportunities for others, proving that with determination and hard work, one can overcome adversity and achieve success.
