NATA announced that Mollie Pillman, MS, MBA, CAE, will begin her role as executive director Sept. 2. Pillman was selected following a highly competitive national search led by executive search firm Vetted Solutions.
With more than two decades of leadership in health care associations, Pillman brings a proven track record of driving innovation, elevating member experience and strengthening organizational impact. Her deep expertise in association management, combined with a lifelong commitment to advancing health and wellness, uniquely positions her to lead NATA into its next chapter.
“Mollie brings expertise in our sector, membership and revenue generation,” said NATA President A.J. Duffy III, MS, ATC, PT. “She will provide inspiring leadership and serve NATA’s members well.”
Pillman most recently served as associate executive director of member experience for the American College of Emergency Physicians, where she led efforts to enhance member retention, grow revenue and raise the profile of emergency physicians. Her strategic leadership helped revitalize digital platforms, build strong partnerships and champion data-driven decisions, all while keeping the member voice at the center of every initiative.
She also previously served as executive director for the Southwestern Society of Orthodontists, senior vice president of membership services for the American Osteopathic Association and chief membership officer for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Throughout her career, Pillman has been a respected collaborator known for uniting diverse stakeholders to foster consensus and action. She is passionate about innovation, storytelling and building cultures where professionals are empowered to thrive.
“As executive director of NATA, I’m excited to work alongside the talented staff, dedicated volunteers and extraordinary athletic trainers who define the profession,” Pillman said. “I’m inspired by the vital work ATs do every day to prevent injuries, enhance performance and protect the health of athletes and active individuals across all settings.”
Pillman holds a Bachelor of Science in biomedical engineering from the University of Wisconsin, a Master of Science in health systems management from Rush University in Chicago and a Master of Business Administration from DePaul University in Chicago.
