The Institute of Promotional Marketing (IPM) has appointed a new, Sheffield-based, general manager.
New GM Emma Kirk joins the organisation after a challenging couple of years which saw many promotional events, including the organisation’s awards, halted by Covid. She brings a wealth of experience across marketing and events, working both within major brands and agencies. Emma has previously held the post of head of marketing for Sheffield United Football Club, developing the club’s marketing strategy within the Championship and during their return to the Premier League, along with experience at Yorkshire-based IPM member agency Savvy Marketing.
Kirk said: “This is a really exciting time to be coming on board, I am passionate about unifying our members and restoring our services, benefits and awards to full capacity along with evolving our offering to align with the needs and wants of today. Being based in Sheffield affords me the opportunity to engage with the wide network of brands and agencies we have based in the north, as well as being just a two-hour commute to London.”
The IPM is the trade body responsible for supporting brands, agencies and service providers within the promotional marketing space. Members are afforded access to networking, industry news and legal and educational services. The organisation celebrates its 90th brthday next year and is focused on recovery post-Covid.
Board member Peter Kerr said: “The IPM has spent the last couple of years ensuring its core services were maintained. Despite constraints, we have been planning to rationalise the business to provide greater member benefits with a new board and management structure. Emma has a very strong marketing background across both brands and agencies which will align perfectly with our members. Our organisation will benefit from Emma’s enthusiasm, determination and extensive marketing expertise which will help drive the IPM forward as we enter our 90th year.”
