The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) is pleased to announce that the Rt Hon Dame Maria Miller DBE has been appointed as its first Independent Chair.
A highly experienced professional in the fields of communications, government, and diversity advocacy, Dame Maria will bring over 20 years of experience in advertising, marketing, and public relations, coupled with an additional 19 years as a Member of Parliament, Government Minister, and Select Committee Chair.
Following an extensive recruitment process and a series of interviews that included an external, independent adviser with significant experience in HR, Dame Maria was appointed for her wealth of expertise in communications and extensive experience in government, most notably as Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport. She was announced as the Institute’s first chair by President, Rachael Clamp, in front of delegates at its annual conference.
Since leaving Parliament in July 2024, Dame Maria has become a specialist advisor on Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion, drawing on their experience as Minister for Equalities where she played a pivotal role in the successful passage of the Equal Marriage Act, ensuring that same-sex couples received equal marriage rights under the law. Her commitment to promoting diversity and equality was recognised by Her Late Majesty the Queen when she was appointed a Dame Commander of the British Empire in acknowledgment of her work's lasting national impact.
Before being elected as an MP, she held several roles in the corporate communications and advertising sectors, including serving as a director at Rowland/Saatchi Company and Grey Advertising. She will take up her new CIPR role in January 2025.
Dame Maria Miller commented; "I am excited to help shape the work of the Institute as it supports its members in navigating an increasingly challenging landscape. I am a passionate advocate for the UK’s creative industries, and Public Relations has a pivotal role in shaping attitudes and perceptions, especially in today's digital world. I am eager to contribute to the continued growth, evolution, and success of this sector.”
“It’s an exciting time for the CIPR and my focus will be on addressing issues like talent development, digital regulation, and the responsible use of AI so we can strengthen the industry's reputation and effectiveness, ensuring it remains a trusted partner across the communications landscape.”
CIPR President, Rachael Clamp said; “I’m very much looking forward to working with Dame Maria next year. We were impressed by her vision for the future of the CIPR, particularly her bold approach to making Chartered Practitioner status a norm and standard in our industry.”
“She brings a strategic business mindset that will help us focus on growth and corporate engagement, while also respecting the role of the President in delivering an exceptional member experience. Her proactive support for our work and keen interest in AI and its impact on communications show that she’s ready to help the CIPR stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.”
CIPR President-elect, Advita Patel added; "This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the CIPR. We are confident that Dame Maria's expertise and vision will bring immense value in driving forward our mission as we implement actions from our governance review and embark on a period of transformational change. Her deep commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, highlighted by her instrumental role in legalising same-sex marriage and embedding LGBTQ+ education into the curriculum, aligns perfectly with our values.”
“Her extensive experience in leadership roles, including chairing key committees in Parliament and serving on various boards, coupled with her strong understanding of the commercial landscape, will be invaluable in guiding the CIPR to the next level.”
The CIPR also received a signed and sealed Order from the Privy Council Office in October this year confirming the changes to its Charter in allowing for the creation of an Independent Chair position and for that individual to be remunerated for their role.