Alicia McKay

About

Alicia McKay is a writer, speaker, and strategist based in Aotearoa New Zealand. She is the author of From Strategy to Action, You Don't Need An MBA, and Local Legends. Alicia gives keynotes on strategy, change and decision-making and trains leaders in skills like strategic planning, decision-making, systems thinking, prioritisation, and influence. Alicia writes regular essays on strategy, power, and culture, and her work has been featured in print media, TV and radio. She has published the Wednesday Wisdom newsletter every week since July 2018. Subscribe at www.aliciamckay.co.nz for fresh and frank advice to help you think more clearly and make better decisions. Alicia has worked with over 100 organisations, including more than 50 Councils. She has trained thousands of leaders across government and business in strategic skills. Her Local Legends programme has helped hundreds of elected and executive leaders work together and make better decisions.  In 2021, Alicia founded the Not An MBA executive education programme. Over 500 global leaders have graduated Not An MBA since launch. Go to www.notanmba.com Alicia appears at conferences in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. Her strategy models and leadership frameworks are used by leaders and organisations around the world. In 2025, LGIU in the UK named Alicia one of the Top 25 Thinkers in Local Government. Notable client work includes legal strategy for Crown Law, developed in partnership with the NZ Solicitor General and Deputy Solicitors General, in-house strategic leadership programmes for large corporates including Woolworths and L'Oreal, training programmes delivered in partnership with Local Government Professionals NSW, and a comprehensive Councillor curriculum (The Local Legends Toolkit) developed with LGNZ. Previous public projects include podcasts (What's On Your Mind?, The Alicia McKay Show) and courses such as Meetings that Matter and Consultants of Choice. Alicia holds degrees in Political Science and Media and Communications. Before launching her consulting practice, Alicia worked as a policy advisor and management consultant. Alicia spends most of her time writing essays and books. She is currently researching a book about power literacy, and working on her first novel. She continues to speak to teams and conferences, and runs a limited number of training workshops each year. For media appearances and podcast requests, contact . For speaking and training enquiries, head to www.aliciamckay.co.nz