Who we are

At Lotus Collective, shared values shape every relationship and outcome. Collaboration, authenticity, and respect are at the heart of how work unfolds—along with a healthy dose of curiosity and good humor. The team is driven by a belief that meaningful change comes from listening deeply, acting with integrity, and modeling the behaviors that make businesses and communities stronger. 

 Lotus Collective partners closely with mission-driven organizations and businesses—rolling up sleeves to craft solutions that work in the real world, whether the need is strategic turnaround, executive leadership, or fueling new growth. The commitment to partnership, equity, and inclusion isn’t just a tagline; it is lived every day, with tailored strategies that meet people where they are. 

 Above all, working with Lotus means honest advice, collaborative spirit, and a team that brings out the best in others—because the real story is the success achieved together.  

Margaret Brawley

Managing Partner & Founder

I am the Founder and Managing Partner of Lotus Collective, and over the past 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading international teams and building impact-driven strategies for mission-focused organizations navigating times of change and growth. I’m passionate about revitalizing nonprofits, supporting organizations through complexity, and fostering collaborative solutions that help teams—and missions—thrive worldwide. Much of my success comes from my belief in capacity-building, partnership, and evidence-based leadership that makes a real difference for people and communities I serve. 

As a single mother by choice to spirited twin 12-year-old boys (and our beloved Pomsky, Koda), I balance family adventure with my lifelong curiosity for the world. My journeys have taken me to over 50 countries and to living in East Africa for 12 incredible years. These experiences have shaped my perspective as a true global citizen and helped me connect deeply across cultures, teams, and sectors. I love brainstorming with others, celebrating teamwork, and bringing a bit of Halloween fanaticism and warmth to everything I do. 

Social justice inspires me every day—especially where reproductive health, human rights, and democracy are concerned in the US and globally. Whether through my professional work or my community activism, I’m driven to show up, lend my voice, and help spark positive change wherever possible. My approach is hands-on, genuine, and focused on building trust, sustainable results, and resilient organizations that can weather any storm.   

Along the way, I’ve developed expertise in executive management, strategic planning, partnership cultivation, and operational excellence. I thrive in fractional executive and consulting roles, helping secure major funding, deliver cross-sector impact, and turn vision into actionable growth. All my work at Lotus Collective is rooted in authentic human connection, joy in collaboration, and a deep commitment to seeing teams and communities succeed—core values that define both my life and the work we do at Lotus Collective. 

Gillette Conner

Managing Partner & Founder

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