The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) has embarked on a new chapter of leadership and progress by implementing a series of key strategic reforms – while welcoming expert talent to its Council. The goal of its new structure is to strengthen the association’s delivery of membership support and print industry stimulus.

As part of the IPIA’s two-year rotational leadership structure, Charles Rogers (Portland Media) has moved to President, Alasdair Browne (Abbot Print) has stepped up to Chair, and Mark Stephenson (Fujifilm Europe) has become Vice Chair. These strategic appointments ensure continuity, while introducing fresh perspectives to the IPIA’s vision and operations.

Driving progress

Alasdair shared his enthusiasm on taking up his new role: “I see the future of the IPIA as a dynamic, collaborative hub – where dedicated professionals in print work together with passion and purpose. As Chair, I am privileged to have an opportunity to influence the IPIA’s future development path – a direction that has been so well established by my dynamic predecessors. But best of all, I owe the IPIA for this opportunity to collaborate on a regular basis with other passionate print professionals.”

Mark emphasised his passion for positively contributing to the UK print industry through his position: “What a privilege to be involved with the IPIA and be provided the opportunity to contribute towards its growth and influence. The association goes from strength-to-strength, supporting members and promoting the brilliance of print – all with great enthusiasm and a real sense of fun.

“I can only see the scope of the IPIA being broadened as momentum continues to build. Our New Narrative for Print initiative for example has the potential to not only stimulate new demand for print - but will raise awareness of how amazing our industry is to work in and attract a more varied demographic of young people to engage with it.”

Charles expressed his confidence in the new leadership team and the Association’s continued positive momentum: “These structural changes reflect our ongoing mission to evolve and strengthen the IPIA for long-term success. With Alasdair and Mark in their new roles, and an ever-growing network of dedicated professionals, we are well-positioned to drive meaningful initiatives and support our members in new and impactful ways.”

Expert talent

The IPIA is also proud to announce the election of three new Council Members, reinforcing the association’s reputation as an energetic and progressive force dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth within the print industry.

Sarah Lees, Head of Marketing and Communications at Compass Business Finance, explained what motivated her to stand for IPIA Council: “The IPIA’s commitment to innovation and excellence, along with its invaluable networking opportunities, has massively benefited me and the organisations I have worked for over the past 20 years. I would recommend membership of the IPIA to anyone working in print, both for their personal advantage and that of the industry.”

Having supported the IPIA through proactive engagement in its industry stimulus initiatives, Pete Horwood, Commercial Director at Imprint MIS, comments: “I am very proud to deploy my knowledge and experience, gained across a range of print sectors, to add real benefit to the IPIA and its members – assisting its amazing work in strengthening the print industry for the long-term.”

A keen advocate for the IPIA over many years, Mike Hughes, Managing Director at Latcham, highlights: “The IPIA offers a fantastic suite of resources and a group of peers with whom Latcham can work to continue developing our sector. The IPIA team are also fantastic advocates for our industry, ensuring that our voice is heard at the highest level.”

A new focus

The IPIA has also been re-structured to focus on the most critical areas of the industry, ensuring that the team are not just reacting to change – but actively shaping the future of the print industry. Its Council is now centred around four Strategic Imperative Committees, each led by a designated Chair and supported by working groups: Standards and Best Practice, Education and Professional Development, Market Development and Advocacy, and Networking and Collaboration.

Alasdair concludes: “With its new structure, the IPIA has built a robust, adaptable and effective engine that can power support for its members and the wider industry as it evolves.”

ENDS

For more information or interviews please contact: Brendan Perring - Brendan@ipia.org.uk

About the IPIA

Founded in 1992, the IPIA is a print industry, not for profit, membership association. It is deeply committed to supporting its members and helping them excel by expanding their business horizons, grow using targeted member collaboration, adapt to ever evolving market forces, and thrive through mutual support.