Lisa MacDonald

Lisa MacDonald – Editor

Non-fiction book editor. Nonprofit sector expertise. Editorial Director for various digital publications. MG fiction writer. Word nerd.

Overview

A passion for philanthropy, combined with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Communication, was the driver that led to my involvement with a niche Canadian publisher that brings information and innovative ideas to Canada’s nonprofit sector leaders.

Working as the in-house book editor for Civil Sector Press helped me to develop an advanced editing skillset that includes copy-editing, substantive and stylistic editing. I also successfully edited translated works from Italian to English and undertook ghostwriting projects when required.

As Editorial Director for The Hilborn Group I was ultimately responsible for the creation of quality written content for various print and digital publications, including blog posts, newsletters and journal articles. I am a highly skilled, self-motivated professional who is equally comfortable leading teams of editors, writers and designers or working solo to deadline.

I have extremely strong writing skills and have acted as a mentor and trainer to other writers.

My latest project is a personal one. I have completed a 45,000 word fiction manuscript for middle grade readers. It is the first of a planned trilogy and is currently being submitted for publication.

Also, although writing can be a solitary pursuit, I really like working with people and they seem to like working with me.

" LISA did a GREAT job, probably the best editor that I ever met in my life ." - Valerio Melandri, Author, "Melandri Fundraising." Professor, Columbia University and University of Bologna.

" She was a dream to work with as an editor. She was tough, articulate, constructively critical, patient, timely, encouraging and professional. She was a valuable member of our team and we would not have been able to complete the project without her. I would really welcome the opportunity to work with Lisa again. " - Tony Myers, Author, "(me)volution."

"I feel privileged you were my editor ." - Chris Snyder, Author, "Creating Opportunities - A Volunteer's Memoir."


Services
Non-Fiction
Business & Management Education & Reference Self-Help & Self-Improvement
Languages
English (CAN)

Work experience

Hilborn Charity eNews, published by The Hilborn Group

Nov, 2021 — Present

Part-time ongoing.

Self-employed

Jan, 2019 — Present

The Hilborn Group / Hilborn ECS

Jan, 2014 — Dec, 2018 (almost 5 years)

 Editor, Gift Planning in Canada (A Hilborn Publication)
 Editor, AFP eWire Canada (Client, The Association of Fundraising Professionals)
 Editor, Advice to Advisors (Client, The Calgary Foundation)
 Editor, Foundations (Client, Bullwealth Financial).
 Managing Editor, Hilborn Charity eNews

Civil Sector Press / The Hilborn Group

Jan, 2012 — Dec, 2018 (almost 7 years)

Lisa has 4 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

DC A.

DC A.

Nov, 2023

I just wrapped up a great editing engagement with Lisa. She provided developmental editing for my forthcoming book on nonprofit leadership. She has a keen eye for detail. Her edits were not just about correcting grammar and punctuation but also about enhancing the overall clarity and flow of my book. She provided thoughtful and constructive feedback throughout the editing process. Communicatio...
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Lisa M.
Thank you Dan! Authors like you are why I love my job! The relationship between author and editor is most rewarding (and effective) when there is a partnership mindset. Your willingness to "put i...
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Mary G.

Mary G.

Jun, 2023

I had the pleasure of working with Lisa and was thoroughly impressed. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to enhance my writing while preserving my voice was exceptional. She provided insightful feedback, improving the clarity and flow of my manuscript. I highly recommend her to any writer in search of a talented editor who can truly elevate their work.
Lisa M.
Thank you Mary! I thoroughly enjoyed our collaboration. Your clarity of vision, creative mindset and openness to feedback made the whole experience a pleasure. I am excited to see you launch Nur...
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Elizabeth S.

Elizabeth S.

Feb, 2022

It was a joy to work with Lisa. I found her feedback to be on point, clear, insightful and empathetic. She listened to what I was trying to convey and did a remarkable job in balancing my needs with editorial guidance. Her client service, responsiveness and flexibility were impressive. I would recommend Lisa's services to anyone seeking developmental editing.
Lisa M.
Thank you Elizabeth for trusting me to help bring your book into the world!
Judie E.

Judie E.

Oct, 2021

I had a very clear focus for my completed manuscript: to find someone with a depth of nonprofit experience who understood fundraising. I wanted someone who could check that my concept worked, and who could provide feedback on how my manuscript might be received by nonprofit leaders and program managers. I read through a lot of profiles and skipped past a lot of talented editors on my way to ...
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Lisa M.
Thank you Judie! Working with motivated, talented professionals such as yourself is a genuine pleasure.

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