#79. Transforming a Niche Association: Leadership Lessons from Angelina Mallini Pillai

24.07.25 02:25 PM - By Olena Lima and Angela Shelton

Associations are people-powered, and today we meet a leader proving it. Let us introduce you to Angelina Mallini Pillai, CEO of the Association of Consulting Architects. She didn’t train as an architect, yet she’s built a thriving, values-led community by listening deeply, fostering trust, and putting wellbeing and relevance at the centre of her work.


In this episode, we explore what it really means to lead a niche association, one where most members are running micro-businesses, juggling every role from payroll to design. You’ll hear how Angelina and her team use real-time feedback to shape services, create belonging, and challenge outdated norms in the architecture profession. 

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We talk about:

  • Using Pulse Check surveys to drive real support and advocacy
  • Building trust as a non-industry CEO in a deeply technical field
  • Embedding mental health, equity, and culture into strategic priorities
  • Rethinking leadership models and giving permission to innovate

 

If you’re passionate about the future of associations, or leading through change, this one’s for you.

 

Connect with Angelina Mallini Pillai: www.linkedin.com/in/angelinapillai
Learn more about the Association of Consulting Architects: www.aca.org.au