I had the pleasure of being present at the Institute of Directors HQ in Pall Mall last night for what felt like a really important night for the public relations profession.
The CIPR held a special event to reach out to other professional institutions, recognise some outstanding contributions from a couple of industry legends and unveil its 2015 manifesto as new CIPR President Sarah Pinch officially took up the reins for the year.
The event also marked ten years since the CIPR received its chartered status – in my view that is a huge moment on the road for the PR profession as it moves to become a truly professional function that deserves its place at the boardroom table.
The CIPR’s 2015 manifesto
reflects that maturity. It highlights seven important challenges ranging from data protection through lobbying to the gender pay gap that the PR industry is actively tackling and to which government should listen.
There were also much deserved Honorary CIPR Fellowships for Anne Gregory and Stephen Waddington for the incredible contributions they have made to securing, sustaining and developing the CIPR’s chartered status. I’m lucky enough to have worked with both through the CIPR and their accolades are well deserved.
As our new President (and Stephen’s successor) Sarah Pinch said “I have big shoes to fill, but my shoes are better.” Good luck @ms_organised – I’m looking forward to the journey
Chris
PS – I am also delighted to have officially rejoined the CIPR’s national council in what I am told is the quickest gap between leaving and joining ever!
My role on Council is to represent the English regions, and no, that doesn’t make me a member of UKIP. Seriously though, if you are a member of the CIPR or just someone who takes a passing interest in all things PR, who has a good idea, a question or something you want to get off your chest, feel free to email me at chris@dtw.co.uk or catch up with me on twitter @dtwchris.