Organizational strategy and development for mission-driven organizations
Turning Big Ideas Into Real-World Impact
Innovative organizations know that they need to continually adapt. However, we can get so focused on our program of work that we can find it hard to find the time/energy/headspace to ensure that our current strategy, operations, and team are optimized and enabling us to reach our goals.
Using two decades of leadership experience with pioneering organizations and programs, we can work together to translate your vision and mission into tangible strategies and tactics and ensure your organization is reaching its potential.
Experience
Michelle Malanca Frey
Michelle Malanca Frey is a global climate and sustainability leader with more than 20 years of experience guiding organizations to grow their impact and achieve their mission. She is known for her collaborative, solutions-oriented approach and her ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to solve complex challenges.
Over the course of her career, Michelle has grown international coalitions, advised private companies and nonprofits, and directed organizations at the intersection of climate, sustainability, and the built environment. She has served in executive leadership roles in the U.S. and abroad, building high-performing teams, launching major initiatives, and shaping strategies that advance both equity and climate goals.
Through her consulting practice, Michelle helps mission-driven organizations strengthen operations, align strategy with vision, and foster the kind of collaboration that turns ambitious ideas into lasting impact.
What drives her work is a deep belief that we can create a better future by working together – and that meaningful change happens when people are connected, supported, and empowered to act.
WORK
Founder and Principal, Mission Atlas, 2022 – Present
Executive Director, Urban Land Institute (ULI) San Francisco, 2016 – 2022
Vice President, World Green Building Council, 2011 – 2015
Principal, Michelle Malanca Consulting, 2007 – 2011
Technical Director, Green Building Council of Australia, 2005 – 2007
PRO BONO AND VOLUNTEER
Co-founder and Organizer, Bay Area Climate and Sustainability Meet-up, 2022 – present
Chair, ULI Sacramento Technical Advisory Panel, Urban League Resilience Hub, 2025
WELL City Advisor, International Well Building Institute, 2022 – 2024
Executive Mentor, Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship, 2023 – 2024
Executive Steering Committee Member, Mayor’s Zero Emission Building Task Force, City of San Francisco, 2019 – 2020
Board Member, Place Lab, 2017 – 2019
Advisor, Pollinate Energy, 2010 – 2016
EDUCATION
Stanford University, Professional Certificate, Energy Innovation and Emerging Technologies, 2023
University of California, Santa Cruz, B.A., Environmental Studies, Board and Thesis Honors
