Martin J Cowling
Transformation & Change Specialist
Martin is one of the most professional and knowledgeable consultants I have worked with. He has exceptional skills in designing and implementing complex transformation and change projects. He has the ability to engage and build trust with all levels in an organisation.
Kate Riordan,
Power to Process
Martin brings over two decades of leadership, strategy, and consultancy experience across sectors, from grassroots organisations to large-scale corporate and government initiatives. He has a proven track record in equipping leaders to navigate change, build resilience, and deliver lasting impact.
A former leader of the Australian government’s Office of the Not-for-Profit Sector, Martin played a key role in establishing the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC) in 2013. His work continues to drive transformation in social-purpose organisations, helping them scale, achieve strategic alignment, and maximise their impact.
Recognised as one of the top 100 speakers on philanthropy, Martin is passionate about the power of people and believes that strong, purpose-driven teams are critical to long-term success. He focuses on creating cohesive, high-performance teams that can adapt to challenges and lead organisations through complex transitions.
In addition to his professional work, Martin supports initiatives in cancer research, MS, and homelessness, volunteering his time in Australia and globally.
Capabilities
Transformation and change
- culture review / strategy
- organisational change management
- leadership and executive coaching / training
Insights and impact
- impact measurement
People, culture and wellbeing
- organisational change strategy / management
- reconciliation action plans / reviews
- volunteering strategy / advisory
- dysfunctional and toxic leaders and organisations
Clients
Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust
Tyre Stewardship Australia
Uniting
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, WA, VIC, NZ
Volunteering Victoria
Volunteer Ireland, Scotland, Canada, NZ
Volunteering Australia
Australian Library and Information Association
Qualifications and recognition
Master of Business Administration, University of London
Graduate Diploma Adult Education and Training, University of Melbourne
Graduate Diploma Adult HRM, Victoria University
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Macquarie University
Martin brought a strong commitment to social justice, and extensive community development practice, to his role in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs. His pursuit of sustained outcomes was most welcomed.
Geoff Richardson PSM,
First Nations Development Services
