IAPI Board Appoints Abi Moran as President

After a unanimous vote, IAPI has announced that Abi Moran, CEO of Folk Wunderman Thompson, will become president of the board on 1st January 2024. Abi’s appointment follows the end of Seán Hynes’ two-year term as President. 

In her 20+ year brand strategy and advertising career, Abi has led iconic brands, including those she currently works with, such as Vodafone, Lidl, Bord Gáis Energy, Irish Life, Brennans and Bank of Ireland (as WPP).

Understanding the power the advertising industry has to influence change, Abi has an unwavering belief in the positive contribution the industry can make in terms of responsible commercial growth and societal change. Over the last few years, Folk have worked with some of Ireland’s biggest brands on their sustainability agenda. Up to now, Abi has led IAPI’s Sustainability Council and was a driving force behind the launch of Ad Net Zero in Ireland.

Seán Hynes announced Abi’s appointment during the IAPI AGM in the Dean Hotel on Wednesday 22nd November. Speaking to the 60+ industry leaders present, Abi commented, “Thank you for entrusting me with the role of IAPI president. I’m honoured to have been elected by such a talented group of people who form the Board of IAPI.

I’m genuinely excited to take on this challenge, and I hope I can continue the great work that Seán has done, as his contribution and dedication to the industry over the past two years have been nothing short of inspiring. 

As we forge ahead into 2024, the three pillars of Talent, Growth, and Sustainability in our Strategic Plan remain our guiding lights. Amidst a crowded industry landscape, we aim to make our voice distinct and authoritative. 

Growth has always been a fundamental pillar, and we plan to double our efforts to support our member agencies and the industry more broadly. We need clearly articulate the value our industry contributes to economic growth.

IAPI must continue to establish itself as a leader in creative commercial communications, and that means expanding its membership to include a broader range of member agencies so we can better reflect how clients engage with their audience. 

Finally, as the industry responds to the climate crisis, Ad Net Zero in Ireland will continue to be a key initiative for IAPI to keep pace with our sustainability goals.”

Speaking of Abi’s appointment, Charley Stoney, CEO, IAPI said, “In working with Abi over the past few years I know her to be a big thinker; passionate about our industry but someone who is also prepared to roll up her sleeves and get things done when necessary.  She’s been a powerhouse on the Ad Net Zero programme for IAPI, and I am thrilled that she’s taking on the role of President.  I look forward to what I know will be a fun and highly productive two years with Abi at the helm.”

Those serving on the IAPI Board in 2024 with Abi will be, Anna Doyle, board director, Starcom; Aoife McCleary, snr copywriter, F&B Huskies; Chris Cashen, managing partner strategy, Mindshare; Emma Williams, director, Edelman; Geraldine Jones, managing director, Publicis Dublin; Jonathan Conlon, COO, GroupM; Margaret Gilsenan, chief strategy officer, Boys + Girls; Neal Davies, CEO, BBDO Dublin; Seán Hynes, creative Bonfire, Bonfire (while he is finishing his term as president, Sean will serve one more year as a Board member). 

The IAPI Executive Team consists of Charley Stoney, CEO; Katherine Ryan, programme director; Keith O’Connor, talent marketing manager; Serena Loftus, finance; Shreesha Hegde, communications and project manager; Amy Cassidy, content design and events.