Start with what matters most

I help non-profits and associations with the strategic leadership they need—without the full-time cost.


I'm Brian McLaren—Certified Association Executive with 20+ years leading technology and governance initiatives for mission-driven organizations.


One Consulting is how I bring that expertise to associations that need professional leadership without the full-time price tag.


Whether it's technology modernization, strategic planning, governance support, or operational management, we start by identifying what matters most, then tackle it one step at a time.

How I Can Help?

Board Training

Create high-functioning leadership teams through board orientation, governance training, and effectiveness workshops. I help boards understand their fiduciary duties, improve decision-making, and build productive relationships between volunteer leadership and staff. Transform dysfunctional boards into collaborative, mission-focused teams.

Strategic Planning

Neutral third-party facilitation for strategic planning retreats and implementation.


I help boards and staff identify priorities, set achievable goals, and create actionable plans that actually get implemented. Particularly valuable for chapters and small associations that need someone who already understands the association landscape.

Member Value Strategy

Design volunteer programs and member engagement strategies that reduce burnout and increase participation. I help associations create sustainable volunteer structures, recognize contributions effectively, and build member value that drives retention. Make volunteering rewarding instead of exhausting.

Digital Modernization

Develop technology roadmaps that align with your strategic plan instead of chasing trends. I help you prioritize digital investments based on mission impact, identify systems that make staff more efficient, and ensure technology serves your goals. Strategic guidance before you write the first check

Technology Project Support

RFP writing, vendor selection, platform evaluation, and implementation oversight for technology projects. I serve as your technical advocate during CRM/AMS implementations, website redesigns, and digital transformations. Get expert guidance without hiring a full-time CIO.

Team Training & Process Optimization

Help staff actually use the technology you've already purchased. I provide training on tools like your Membership Database, CRM, or collaboration platforms, plus optimize workflows so technology supports your team instead of slowing them down. Get ROI from investments you've already made.

Governance Best Practices

Update bylaws, policies, and governance structures to reflect current best practices and legal requirements. I review existing policies, identify gaps and outdated provisions, facilitate board approval, and ensure compliance with state regulations. Modernize governance without the drama.

Compliance Assistance

Navigate 990 preparation, state registrations, and association compliance requirements. I coordinate with your accountant and attorney to ensure filings are complete and accurate, maintain good standing, and follow best practices. Take the mystery out of compliance obligations.

Fractional Executive Director Service

Part-time professional management for small associations, leadership transitions, or interim needs. I handle day-to-day operations, board support, financial oversight, and strategic implementation—giving you professional leadership without full-time salary commitments. Virtual service model keeps costs manageable.

One Approach, Every Engagement


Whether I'm helping with technology, governance, or strategic planning, these principles guide my work.

Start With What Matters Most

Every engagement begins with one question: What will deliver the most value to your mission? We prioritize ruthlessly so limited resources go where they'll have the biggest impact.

Ask Often

Solutions designed with stakeholder collaboration get adopted faster and work better. I involve board members, staff, and key volunteers early so decisions have buy-in.

Stay Agile

Organizations should adapt technology and strategy to changing needs, not force-fit solutions that worked somewhere else. We build flexibility into plans.

Listen First

Board members and staff who feel heard become advocates for change. I understand concerns and context before recommending solutions.

Bridge Silos

The best outcomes happen when departments, committees, and staff functions work together. I reduce friction and increase collaboration across organizational boundaries.

Move Mission

Everything I recommend serves your organization's mission. Technology, governance, and strategy are tools—mission is the goal.

Testimonials

What people say about working with Brian

Katy S.
Brian is the real deal! What I really like about Brian is the way he interacts with people, his generous spirit, and ability to relate to almost anyone.

Katy S.

Deputy Chief Transformation Program Management

Keri K.
Brian is awesome sauce. Not only is he smart, creative, and ruthlessly organized, he approaches work with a collaborative mindset and leads with emotional intelligence. The cherry on the sundae is that he is really fun to work with. Imagine approaching platform upgrades with joie de vivre! This is Brian.

Keri K.

Non-profit CEO

Ann N.
Not only is Brian excellent in his field, but he's also one of the brightest, friendliest guys you'll ever meet. With a seemingly endless wealth of knowledge and a deep appreciation for collaboration.

Ann N.

Business Systems Owner

Jonathan S.
Brian had an exceptional grasp of how digital channels could be used to advance the Institute's goals. He was a valuable partner to my team in improving member satisfaction with the website by using analytics to inform decisions and by creatively working within existing constraints.

Jonathan S.

Digital Product Strategist

Mary L.
Brian’s depth of knowledge, strong relationships, and ability to learn new mindsets and methodologies made him the ideal lead for defining and executing the vision for the complex technologies and solutions we were implementing.

Mary L.

Organization Development Strategist

Let's Talk About Your Organization's Needs

Every organization's challenges are unique. Whether you need ongoing strategic guidance or help with a specific project, I'd love to hear what you're working on.

Proven Results

for Organizations Like Yours

Digital Modernization

  • Implemented platforms serving 100,000+ members
  • 74% increase in user adoption through collaborative design
  • 70% reduction in application completion time
  • $55M+ in first-year transactions
  • 20% infrastructure cost reduction
  • 30% improvement in engagement metrics


20+ years leading technology initiatives for mission-driven organizations including the American Institute of Architects and Council on Vertical Urbanism.

Association Support

  • Experience supporting 250+ chapters
  • Certified Association Executive (CAE)
  • Strategic planning facilitator for professional societies
  • Transformed dysfunctional boards into high-performing teams
  • 20+ years' experience with board leadership
  • Fractional Executive Director services for small associations
  • Interim support for staffing transitions


Deep experience with association dynamics, volunteer governance, and operational management

Technology and governance aren't separate challenges—they're interconnected. Technology serves your strategic priorities and should make it easier to serve your membership. Effective governance ensures your investments in resources aligns with your mission.

Connect

If you're looking for a leadership partner that's strategic, collaborative, and genuinely invested in your success, let's talk.

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