Simon Bollon, founder and managing director of Boutique, has been appointed as the new Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) city head for Leeds and Yorkshire.
Bollon’s career began in the gaming industry before he moved into the agency world in the early 2000s, initially working across media strategy and planning roles. He went on to establish Boutique in 2014, and succeeds Alex Uprichard as Leeds’ IPA city head.
Concurrently, Penny Took, CEO of Mediaplus Connect, succeeds the late Gareth Evans as IPA city head for Birmingham and the Midlands.
As city heads, the pair will “serve as figureheads and voices for the industry in their regions, championing the outstanding talent in the advertising community and driving collaboration, thought leadership and engagement.” They will also work closely with the other IPA city heads and chairs for England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on wider industry issues and IPA initiatives.
Bollon said: “The IPA plays a vital role in setting the high standards our industry aspires to and in supporting agencies across every aspect of their journey. I’m delighted to be able to contribute to that work. I’ve long believed that agencies thrive when they collaborate, share knowledge and support one another. That collective spirit is what creates a vibrant, resilient and truly robust industry. I’m excited to help champion that approach across Leeds and Yorkshire.”
IPA director of membership Tom Mott added: “I am delighted that Simon and Penny have agreed be our new city heads for Leeds and Birmingham and am excited to work with them in the coming months. They will play key roles in helping us grow and support the vibrant agency communities in their regions. I would like to also thank Alex for her dedicated service during her time as City Head for Leeds and Yorkshire.”
Bollon is a passionate member of the Leeds and Yorkshire agency community, and says he is “committed to supporting a thriving, cohesive regional ecosystem.” He promises to bring enthusiasm and leadership to his role as IPA City Head, advocating for local agencies, fostering connection, and promoting collaboration across the region.
