#50: Leading Through Growth and Advocacy: Elevating the Surveying Profession with Michelle Blicavs

If you're looking for a leader in the association sector who has tackled it all—rebranding, skyrocketing membership, launching a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), and spearheading advocacy—you won’t find anyone better than Michelle Blicavs. In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, Olena chats with Michelle, CEO of Surveyors Australia, about her dynamic journey in transforming a long-standing association into a thriving, forward-thinking organisation. From an ambitious rebrand to hands-on member engagement and securing a seat at the advocacy table in Canberra, Michelle shares her recipe for success. Hear how she grew the association's membership by personally visiting hundreds of organisations across Australia and how that boots-on-the-ground approach led to remarkable growth. Michelle also opens up about the bold decision to start a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to address Australia’s surveyor skill shortages, despite many peers in the sector advising against it. Plus, learn how she navigated the often daunting world of advocacy, proving that even small associations can have a big voice. This episode is packed with real-world insights, actionable advice, and stories that showcase the power of passion and perseverance in the association sector.