Workshop - Leading Through Change

Workshop Description:

Change is a constant in libraries and communities. This interactive session, designed for library leaders and directors, delivers practical frameworks and mindsets to drive transformation in uncertain times. With Martin’s extensive leadership track record across organisations across Australia and internationally participants will gain insights into championing change for lasting positive impact.

Core topics include:

  • Leading teams through organisational transitions with empathy and clarity
  • Fostering a culture that embraces resilience, and mutual support during change efforts.
  • Addressing resistance and the often overlooked people-side of change for more effective outcomes.
  • Applying global case studies, research-backed models, and lessons learned from diverse library environments.

Each session provides hands-on activities, challenging reflection, and peer learning so participants leave with practical, ready-to-implement ideas.

Who should attend this workshop:

This session is suitable for library leaders and directors. Attendees will leave equipped to lead confidently, ready to turn challenges into opportunities for their libraries and communities.

Workshop Date:

Monday 11 May 2026 | 2:00pm – 5:00pm

Workshop Cost:

$220 (ALIA members only)

Martin Cowling

Change Management Expert and Leadership Guru

Presenter Bio

Martin J. Cowling is a highly engaging and energetic speaker and facilitator with a wealth of experience as a consultant on leadership, change, community impact and volunteerism. Recognised as one of the top 100 speakers on philanthropy by Philanthropy 101, Martin’s mission is to equip leaders for lasting impact, firmly believing that people are the cornerstone of any organisation’s success.

He has worked with community organisations across the globe and was responsible for the team that developed the 2013 Charities Act and helped establish the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission. Martin has supported ALIA, local governments and individual libraries in leadership, change and impact.

Martin currently volunteers for cancer research, homelessness, and multiple sclerosis.