The Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA) has announced the appointment of Anne Howard as its new CEO.

Howard will work alongside recently announced PRIA national and state board members to further professional development, networking, events and advocacy initiatives that ensure the PR and communications profession plays a key role in shaping Australia’s future.

With 25 years’ communications experience in commercial and academic roles, Howard has previously worked across PR and marketing strategy with large corporates, government bodies, research and the not-for-profit sector, including the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and the Australian Venture Capital Association.

PRIA national president Jenny Muir said Howard’s appointment signals the organisation’s ongoing commitment to fresh thinking drawn from respected industry professionals.

“Anne delivers strong business acumen to our diverse and growing industry,” she said.

“Her leadership skills are emblematic of many in our profession, combining previous industry body leadership roles with decades of senior strategic communication counsel to numerous government organisations and industry bodies. She is a perfect fit to lead our national industry body.”

Commenting on her appointment, Howard said she wants to give priority to championing Australia’s strong, diverse and vibrant PR and communications profession at a time of major change.

“I am both delighted and honoured to have the opportunity to represent the PRIA and further advance the contribution of the public relations and communication profession in Australia,” she said.

“Our industry is facing many opportunities, particularly with the impact and application of digital technology, merging media landscapes and changing expectations. I am committed to working with the PRIA board and our many volunteers around the country to support our valued members and ensure they are equipped to take advantage of the exciting possibilities that this changing landscape presents.”