Bainsfair appointed director general of IPA
The IPA has announced that Paul Bainsfair will succeed Hamish Pringle as its director general in July.
Following the inaugural speech given by the IPA’s new president Nicola Mendelsohn yesterday, the IPA has said that Bainsfair, chairman of Iris Worldwide, will take over from Pringle on 7 June following a two-month handover period and is expected to serve for an initial five years.
Of his appointment, Bainsfair said: “We are facing some big trends which are already having an impact on the future shape of the advertising and communications industry. For me, there couldn’t be a more interesting time to take on this role. I’m looking forward to helping the IPA play its part in keeping our world class industry at the forefront during these challenging times.”
Hamish Pringle, added: “Some people were puzzled when I announced way back in June 2010 that I would be standing down in July 2011, but I knew how long it would take to secure the right person. In Paul we have found someone who has all the attributes required to lead the IPA and serve the membership for the next five years. I'm delighted that he's taking on the role and I very much hope that he finds it as stimulating and fulfilling as I have done in these exciting and challenging times."
Bainsfair has also served as non-executive chairman of Lean Mean Fighting Machine, president of TBWA Europe, director of Omnicom Europe, founder and co-chairman of Bainsfair Sharkey Trott and a number of roles at Saatchi & Saatchi, where he began his career.