THE new president of the Institute of Public Relations, the UK's professional body for PR practitioners, is Mr John Aspery from Watford.

Mr Aspery, a fellow of the IPR, is head of Watford-based Aspery Associates, a public relations and business communication consultancy specialising in crisis preparation, crisis communications and broadcast media training.

Former head of PR for H J Heinz Company and journalist on national and international press, John has been a member of the IPR for almost 30 years. He has served on the Institute's Professional Practices Committee and has acted as chair of the IPR Home Counties North Group.

He was awarded the Institute's Stephen Tallents medal in 1999 in recognition of his exceptional achievements in, and contribution to, public relations. In 1995 John was named as one of 25 global professionals who most influenced development of the IABC and the communications profession.

"I am looking forward to leading the development of the IPR and the public relations profession over the next year," said John. "I am committed to raising the professional standards of all our members through continuing to improve the IPR's training and development programmes. I see 2003 as a year in which service to members is reflected in everything we do."

Mr Aspery took over the presidency of the Institute from January 1, 2003, and will serve for one year.PR

January 27, 2003 12:00