#85: Beyond the Balance Sheet: Human-Centered Leadership in Associations with Amanda Linton
Description
In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Linton, CEO of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), to explore her remarkable journey from solo bookkeeper to leading a national professional body. With nearly 30 years of industry experience, Amanda brings a fresh and practical perspective on what it takes to lead a modern association.
Amanda shares the mindset shift required when moving from a profit-driven business to a purpose-led membership organisation, and opens up about the realities of working with limited resources while serving a diverse member base, from students and solo bookkeepers to large practices.
We talk about:
🔹 The difference between strategy on paper and real, tangible member value
🔹 Why listening to members in person is still Amanda’s most valuable channel to gather members’ feedback
🔹 How ICB uses partnerships to extend services without stretching the internal team
🔹 The surprising success of ICB’s two podcasts, and why storytelling matters
🔹 Embracing digital transformation and AI, while staying human-centered
🔹 Designing professional development that fits modern life (think: micro-learning and on-demand content)
Whether you’re leading an association, managing membership, or simply passionate about building strong professional communities, this episode is packed with insights, honesty, and inspiration.
United States
