Recognising excellence · 2026

Top 100 Most Influential Membership Professionals.

Recognising the leaders shaping the future of associations, charities, unions, and membership communities around the world.

The Index · 2026

Celebrating the changemakers.

In our second year of recognising leaders in the membership sector, the Top 100 shows some familiar faces — but many new ones too. This year's list is based on our own research alongside public nominations, judged not by votes but by real data: recency of content and genuine engagement.

Well done to all 100 individuals recognised below.

The 2026 Index

Meet the Top 100.

What is the Index?

Four things we recognise.

Member engagement and growth

This index recognises professionals who are driving meaningful engagement and growing their member communities. Whether it’s through new initiatives, retention strategies, or inclusive programming, they’re elevating the membership experience.

Thought leadership and education

Professionals sharing knowledge that moves the sector forward — research, insight and hands-on guidance that helps peers grow.

Advocacy, innovation, and inclusion

We’re celebrating those who champion diversity, equity, and innovation within their organisations and beyond. These professionals are using their voice to push boundaries and represent underheard perspectives in the industry.

Consistent influence on LinkedIn and beyond

Social presence matters — the Index honours professionals who are active, visible, and influential across platforms, especially LinkedIn. Their content drives awareness, inspires action, and connects communities globally.

How did we select them?

The criteria.

Anyone who meets the following criteria:

  • Works in a membership-related role (e.g. Director, Manager, Officer)
  • Has at least 3,000 followers on LinkedIn
  • Uses a personal, not company, profile
  • Actively contributes to the membership sector through online presence
Brought to you by

Our 2026 Index partners.

Intercloud9

Strategic advice and technical support that enhances the operational efficiency of membership organisations — strategy, change management and technology alignment with a member-centric focus.

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This company operates within the association industry, providing strategic advice and technical support to enhance the operational efficiency of membership organisations. Leveraging a multi-disciplinary approach, they address key areas such as strategy, change management, and technology alignment to overcome barriers to growth. Their expertise lies in facilitating technological transformation while maintaining a member-centric focus, ensuring that new solutions align with the client's strategic goals and member expectations. With their comprehensive support model, they assist organisations in expanding membership and service offerings sustainably.

The firm hosts an array of educational events, from webinars to sector-specific symposiums, designed to support membership organisations in their transformation journeys. Their seasoned consultancy team is committed to guiding clients through the complexities of digital change, providing tactical support in vendor selection, technical integration, and the development of technological roadmaps. Through best practice advice, white papers, and case studies, they offer actionable insights that drive meaningful change. By focusing solely on the membership sector, the company ensures their solutions are tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within this niche, supporting organisations in fostering an engaged and growing member base.

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Gordon Glenister

A distinguished expert in influencer marketing and membership growth — home of the Association Accelerator Program, executive roundtables and the acclaimed book "Influencer Marketing Strategy".

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The company is a distinguished expert in influencer marketing and membership growth, specializing in elevating the profiles of businesses and individuals through strategic influencer marketing. It offers a suite of services including an Influencer and Employee Advocacy Agency, the VIP Influencer Executive Program, Executive Roundtable Dinners, and a High Impact Influencer Marketing Course. The organization is renowned for its Association Accelerator Program, which aims to enhance associations by fostering membership growth and providing valuable experiences.

The enterprise's founder is a seasoned professional with an illustrious career spanning various prestigious roles. Notably, he held the post of Director General for the British Promotional Merchandise Association and was instrumental in launching the first-ever online education academy for the merchandise industry. His expertise is frequently showcased at global conferences, where he is sought after as a keynote speaker and panelist. His influential work extends to crafting partnerships between brands and top-tier influencers, driven by the insights shared in his acclaimed book, "Influencer Marketing Strategy".

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Local SEO Ltd

The local lead-gen agency — search visibility and lead generation for local businesses.

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JournoLink

Low-cost PR for businesses and trade bodies — a seamless connection point between organisations and over 6,000 journalists, bloggers and content creators.

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In the association industry, an innovative platform has emerged, offering low-cost public relations solutions to businesses and trade bodies. This company provides a seamless connection point between organizations and journalists, creating a unique alternative to traditional PR agencies. By harnessing cutting-edge artificial intelligence and fresh digital tools, this platform allows users to effortlessly manage their PR efforts, making it accessible to over 3,000 businesses and 6,000 journalists, bloggers, and content creators.

This dynamic service emphasizes collaboration by partnering with various industries, including tourism boards, and offering tailored PR solutions to associations such as the Quality Franchise Association. It prides itself on being a user-friendly platform that is both easy to use and efficient in getting businesses noticed in the press. With its extensive database and innovative features, this service allows users to tap into over 5,000 contacts, revolutionizing public relations for small to medium-sized enterprises and associations alike.

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UTC Travel

Book travel at trade prices — a ready-made member benefit supporting membership acquisition, engagement, retention and financial wellbeing.

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YBA PPC

Results-focussed Google Ads experts — voted in the top 3% of Google Ads agencies across 26 countries by Google.

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Pragmatiq

A Microsoft Partner delivering Dynamics 365 CRM, Business Central, Power Platform and AI solutions for digital transformation.

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Geofilms

London-based video content strategy and production partner for trade associations, membership bodies and B2B organisations — strategy, filming, repurposing and content management that turns attention into enquiries.

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