The CIPR has announced today that Stephen Waddington MCIPR will act as President in 2014. Waddington polled 68 per cent of the vote. Currently he serves on the CIPR Executive Board and is Chair of the Institute’s Policy and Campaigns Committee. Commenting on the current state of the CIPR, the newly elected President, and European Social Media and Digital Director at Ketchum, said: "The CIPR as the professional body representing public relations in the UK and further afield stands at a moment in time. We have a real opportunity to assert our value as a management discipline that enables organisations to engage in a two-way conversation, and ultimately a relationship, with audiences both internal and external. We also have the opportunity to improve the reputation of our industry via professional development." He believes "The real hard work starts now". Waddington was standing against Dr Jon White FCIPR and commiserations go to him for a contest worthy of the opportunity that the PR profession faces. Jane Wilson, CIPR Chief Executive, said: “Of the two high quality candidates, Stephen is a superb choice and I know he will lead the CIPR very effectively in championing the public relations profession, advancing professional standards and engaging with CIPR members on a national and international scale. It has been a pleasure to work with Stephen already on CIPR Board and he will bring great enthusiasm and commitment to the role of President Elect, becoming President in 2014. I wish him every success.” Jon White has made a great contribution to the industry as one of public relations leading practitioners and an internationally renowned academic. I look forward to Jon continuing to contribute to the CIPR as a member of Council and a leading mind on research, planning and measurement.  Both candidates have my admiration and respect.” The full election report, a feedback survey on the 2013 Election and further information can be accessed via the CIPR website.