CIPR publishes skills guide: From Comms Professional to CEO

CIPR’s guide From Comms Professional to CEO posits that PR professionals have the right skills and experience to become CEOs.

Written and researched by 2020 CIPR Board member and How-Now Communications founder Mike Browne, the report examines what factors hold communications practitioners back from applying for leadership roles and offers advice for making the leap.

Those interviewed for the report include United for All Ages director Stephen Burke, Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association CEO Ruth Davison, Political Studies Association CEO Michelle Doyle Wildman, Ellwood Atfield founder Gavin Ellwood, British Medical Association CEO Tom Grinyer, Kings College Hospital Charity CEO Gail Scott-Spicer and Future First CEO Lorraine Langham.

‘I’ve always thought the skill set of senior communications professionals makes us ideal CEO material but haven’t seen lots of people having made the leap,’ said report writer Mike Browne.

‘I think this is partly about self-confidence and partly because of a lack of visible role models. I hope this report will help tackle both of these issues and support any communications professional thinking about taking the step up to a CEO role to “just do it”. I would like to thank the chief executives who have made the journey and gave me their time, career stories and learning. Their insight along with the thoughts of a leading head-hunter give hints, tips and inspiration for anyone who thinks they have CEO potential.’

CIPR President Mandy Pearse is encouraged by industry practitioners’ willingness to continue to upskill throughout their careers: ‘Whatever stage of your career you are at, and whatever your ambitions, this guide should fill you with confidence that you can go as far as you choose by merit of your experience and skills. In particular, I was pleased to see the importance of committing to CPD as a clear and recognised way to demonstrate one’s professionalism, adaptability and commitment to best practice.’

Find out more about From Comms Professional to CEO at CIPR’s free event on Friday – details can be found here on the CIPR website.