Kirsty Leighton Appointed PRCA Management Board Chair, Joining Sarah Waddington CBE to Form First Female Leadership Duo in PRCA History 

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has today announced that Kirsty Leighton, Founder and Group CEO of Milk & Honey PR, will become Chair of its Management Board following the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September. 

Kirsty’s appointment follows the recent announcement of Sarah Waddington CBE as the PRCA’s new CEO, marking a historic milestone: for the first time in the Association’s history, two women will lead the organisation. This signals a bold and progressive step for the global PR body as it continues its mission to represent and advance the communications profession worldwide. 

Leighton succeeds Ray Eglington, who has led the Management Board with integrity and dedication. Under his guidance, the PRCA has grown stronger, more inclusive, and increasingly focused on the future needs of its members. The Association extends its deepest thanks for his outstanding leadership and ongoing support. 

A seasoned industry leader, Kirsty brings over 25 years of experience in corporate brand PR and communications, having held senior roles across financial, corporate, technology, and consumer agencies. As Founder and Group CEO of Milk & Honey PR, she has built an international, award-winning, purpose-driven agency with people at its heart. 

PRCA Management Board Chair, Kirsty Leighton, commented: 

“I’m proud to have played a role on the management board for the last two years under Ray’s leadership, driving significant achievements in governance, inclusivity and global reach. I am honoured to take on this leadership role at such a pivotal time for the PR and communications industry. Together with the powerhouse that is Sarah Waddington, I look forward to steering the PRCA towards even greater inclusivity and innovation, and to advancing our profession on a global stage.” 

Sarah Waddington CBE, PRCA CEO, said: "Ray has been an exceptional leader as Management Board Chair and thanks to him, the organisation is in a much stronger place with a clear vision and real momentum. I’m personally grateful for all his hard work and support, having seen the extent of his contribution. 

“Replacing Ray was never going to be easy but in Kirsty we have a smart forward thinker, with energy and global expertise who cares equally deeply about enhancing the member experience. We're at a real moment in PRCA history and I’m looking forward to working with her closely to achieve our strategic objectives.” 

Charles Lewington, Chair of the Nominations Committee and Honorary Vice President of the PRCA, said: “Ray will be a hard act to follow but in Kirsty, the PRCA Management Board will be in the safest of hands. Kirsty has built a terrific PR agency, has strong financial acumen and the international experience to support the PRCA’s expanding global membership. Together with Sarah, we have an unbeatable all-women top team!”