PRIA appoints new president for South Australia division
PRIA has appointed Ben Smeaton as new president of its South Australia division, with Sonia Diestel-Feddersen re-appointed as Vice President.
The announcement:
Ben Smeaton has been appointed President of the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA) in South Australia.
Mr Smeaton – a publicity, media relations and stakeholder communications specialist – is currently an Account Manager at national integrated marketing communications agency communikate et al.
He will also serve as a National Board member for the peak industry body.
Mr Smeaton succeeds Victoria Evans, who is stepping down after two years in the President role to focus on her public relations agency, VEPR, and her freelance communications work. Ms Evans will remain on the state’s council.
Mr Smeaton said he was excited to be taking on the role during what was a challenging time for the industry.
“Cuts to the media industry and repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic continue to be felt,” he said. “However, PR and communications professionals have never been more relevant. Last year’s bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic have demonstrated the importance of clear and effective communications, and the role we play in helping to manage these crises.
“We have a diverse and enthusiastic PRIA council in South Australia with a broad range of skills and expertise. Our focus is on supporting the national team’s initiatives, running state-specific events and training to build the local industry’s capacity, and strengthening the Institute’s ties with local universities.
“With the advocacy being undertaken by PRIA nationally to block the Federal Government’s proposal to overhaul university course fees, it’s now more important than ever to support the industry body that’s fighting for you.
“Kudos to Victoria for her excellent leadership during her two terms. She’s laid strong foundations to steer our industry forward and I’m pleased she’s remaining on the state council to continue her good work.”
Sonia Diestel-Feddersen, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications, Policy and Strategy, Banking and Contact Centres at Hays, has been re-appointed as Vice President.
In addition to Ben, Victoria and Sonia, PRIA’s South Australian councillors are Helen Sutherland, Principal Communications Adviser at Wellbeing SA, and Tom Worsley, PR and Content Specialist at Bridgestone Australia.
The appointments are effective Friday 4 September 2020, until next year’s annual general meeting.
Source: PRIA media release
