The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has announced Grayling’s Global CEO Sarah Scholefield MPRCA as its 2022-2024 Chair.

Scholefield – whose appointment was confirmed at the Association’s recent AGM – succeeds Rachel Friend MPRCA.

Scholefield has been at Grayling for over eight years, having joined in 2014 to lead the strategic direction, coordination, corporate and crisis work for PayPal globally. She was later promoted to CEO of UK and Ireland and is now Global CEO of Grayling and CEO of Accordience – the communications group of agencies.

Francis Ingham MPRCA, Director-General, PRCA said: “Sarah is one of the most highly regarded leaders in our industry and has earned the respect of PR and communications practitioners around the world. Her recent promotion to Global CEO makes her the perfect choice for the PRCA as we seek to expand our international footprint.

“I’d like to thank Rachel for her commitment and leadership during an exceptionally challenging two years. I look forward to working with Sarah as we build on our reputation as the world’s largest and most dynamic PR association.”

Sarah Scholefield MPRCA, Global CEO, Grayling, said: “It is a great honour to take on the role of PRCA Chair, working closely with Francis and the Board to guide the PRCA through the next phase of its journey. I’d like to thank Rachel for her expert Chairing and her commitment to DEI & mental health in the industry: two critical areas to which I am equally committed, as well as a focus on education and promoting our profession throughout schools. I very much look forward to building on her work in helping the PRCA drive meaningful change within the industry.”