North East duo make history with top PR roles

Two North East communications leaders are making history at the helm of the world’s largest PR body.

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has named Kirsty Leighton as its new chair, joining recently appointed chief executive Sarah Waddington CBE to form the organisation’s first all-women leadership team.

Kirsty, who grew up in Wylam, Northumberland, is the founder and group chief executive of Milk & Honey PR. 

Since launching the agency in 2017, she has grown it internationally with offices in the US and Germany, achieved top B Corp credentials and pledged to support 250 people from underrepresented backgrounds into the industry. 

Kirsty’s father, Robin Leighton, founded the well-known Wylam Brewery, in Newcastle.

Kirsty said: As a proud Geordie, it’s incredibly meaningful to step into this leadership role alongside Sarah, who has done so much for the profession from her base in the North East.

“Together, we’re committed to driving greater inclusivity, innovation, and global impact for our members.”

Sarah, a long-time North East resident, has led agencies including Astute.Work and Wadds Inc., as well as co-founding the Socially Mobile CIC to improve access to PR careers and creating the #FuturePRoof community to champion public relations as a leadership function. 

She was awarded a CBE in 2021 for services to PR and the voluntary sector.

Sarah added: “It’s brilliant to welcome Kirsty to the team, who brings energy, vision and a deep understanding of what matters to our members.

“It’s a privilege to be representing the North East and the PR industry more widely in these roles.”

Their appointments mark a new chapter for the PRCA as it continues to represent and elevate communications professionals worldwide. 

Both roles take effect following the association’s AGM in September. 

Charles Lewington, chair of the nominations committee and honorary vice president of the PRCA, added: “Kirsty has built a terrific agency and brings strong financial and international expertise.

“With Sarah and Kirsty at the helm, the PRCA has an unbeatable leadership team.”

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