Donna South

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Turn your members into raving fans

Hi! I’m Donna, and I specialise in helping associations and member-based organisations turn members into raving fans.

What does that mean? It means your members don’t just happily renew their membership – they rave about your organisation to colleagues and their network, encouraging others to join!

With over a decade of experience in membership management, leading teams, and advising boards and executives, I’ve seen how a well-executed membership program can transform an organisation

If you’re after practical, actionable advice, let’s talk. Whether it’s shaping your engagement strategy or offering ongoing support, I’ll give you clear, honest insights to help your membership thrive.

Let’s create a member experience that keeps your members engaged, loyal, and excited to spread the word.

Meet Donna

HOW I CAN HELP

Membership expertise, advice and support

It’s not uncommon for membership teams to be too focused on churning through urgent tasks – like answering member queries, managing renewals, or meeting deadlines – to work on projects that could have a lasting, strategic impact.

That’s where I come in. I work with associations to take on the bigger ‘extra’ projects that often get sidelined, but are essential to the long-term success of your membership program. Whether it’s improving member engagement, developing tailored onboarding processes, or reviewing your member communications, I’m here to help you work on the business, not just in it.

Member Engagement

I’ll work with you to develop a strategy that supports growth and keeps your members engaged. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing plan, I’ll ensure it’s aligned with your goals and the needs of your members.

Member Experience

From first contact to membership renewals, I’ll help you understand and improve every step of your member journey. The result? A smoother, more enjoyable experience that increases member satisfaction and retention.

Communications Review

I’ll review your current communication practices to identify gaps and opportunities. We’ll create a plan that ensures your members stay informed and engaged, while avoiding communication fatigue.

Health Check

 I’ll meet with your team to get a sense of how things are tracking, answer your burning questions, and provide honest feedback on what’s working well and where there’s room for improvement.

RESOURCES

Free Renewals Checklist

I’ve pulled together a quick checklist of things I always run through before kicking off a renewal campaign — and I’m sharing it with you, for free.

Download Free Renewals Checklist

If you could use a second pair of eyes or help setting up your renewal campaign, give me a shout – I’d love to see how I can help.

Get in Touch

Don’t just take my word for it

Here’s what people are saying about working with me.

Donna provided invaluable assistance to Speech Pathology Australia on a recent project aimed at mapping our member touchpoints. She brought a vibrant energy, deep expertise, and professional insights that we could readily apply to enhance our approach.

I would gladly work with Donna again on future, larger-scale projects and recommend her to any association seeking actionable insights and a strategic perspective.”

Rob Di Liva
Chief Operating Officer, Speech Pathology Australia

Donna brought exactly the insight we needed on a key project, thanks to her
mix of association expertise and informed thinking. She was a pleasure to work with, and her recommendations were clear, actionable and constructive.

I’d happily recommend her to any association looking for someone who genuinely understands the sector.”

Karen Goldsmith
Chief Operating Officer, Planning Institute of Australia

Donna is the kind of professional every organisation hopes to have around—insightful, switched on, and consistently two steps ahead. Donna brings a deep understanding not only of association membership but of the broader strategic and operational functions that underpin a successful industry association or peak body. Her knowledge spans everything from day-to-day management and communications, through to high-level strategic planning.

I would not hesitate to recommend her.

Sally Wood
Owner, Wordly

Latest Blog Posts

Check out the blog for more membership tips and insights.

  • Are Portfolio Careers Compatible with Association Leadership?

    Are Portfolio Careers Compatible with Association Leadership?

    Jun 16, 2025
  • More Emails = Less Engagement.

    More Emails = Less Engagement.

    Mar 17, 2025
  • Membership is a Speciality—It Should Be Treated As One

    Membership is a Speciality—It Should Be Treated As One

    Mar 5, 2025
  • Stop Losing Members: 3 Easy Steps You Can Take Now

    Stop Losing Members: 3 Easy Steps You Can Take Now

    Jan 9, 2025

Want to work with me?

Let’s connect to explore the best options for your needs.

Get in Touch

Get started now.

Want to see what’s possible? Get in touch today.

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