A new, strategic approach to professional development for academic developers is presented in this paper. The new model integrates recognition, sharing good practices, reflection, capability-building, professional dialogues, and community-building. After explaining the drivers, research methods, influences, and design principles that underpin this integrated model, we illustrate its application in practice through Advancing Academic Development events and awards. We explain the iterative refinement of the model within Australasian and global contexts, then present evidence of its impact on award nominees, attendees, and the broader field of academic development. We conclude by discussing the transferability of the model to other professional fields and its potential application by academic developers to advance areas of learning and teaching.