The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Northern Ireland has appointed Paula McNulty Chart.PR, FCIPR as Chair of its regional committee for 2026.
Paula brings more than 25 years’ experience working with UK-wide and global organisations. A Chartered CIPR practitioner, CIPR Fellow and member of CIPR UK Council, she is currently a Director at the multi-award-winning full-service agency LK Communications.
Recognised as an international award-winning marketing communications leader, Paula is known for her strategic insight, creativity and ability to build high-impact relationships while delivering measurable results. She holds a first-class BSc (Hons) in Communication, Advertising and Marketing from Ulster University and is a strong advocate for lifelong professional development, mentoring and supporting the next generation of PR professionals.
Commenting on her appointment, Paula said: “I am incredibly honoured to take on the role of Chair at a time when the communications profession in Northern Ireland continues to evolve and grow. My priority is to ensure that the CIPR in Northern Ireland remains a progressive, inclusive and supportive community that equips members with the skills, confidence and professional standards needed to succeed in an ever-changing communications landscape.
“We will continue to champion excellence, strengthen connections across sectors, and create meaningful opportunities for learning and collaboration. I’m ambitious about what we can achieve together this year and beyond.”
Paula succeeds Samantha Livingstone Chart.PR, FCIPR, who served as Chair in 2025 and led the committee in championing professional development, community engagement and advocacy for members across Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on her tenure, Samantha said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair and give back to a profession that has shaped my career. Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to support our local PR community and work alongside an exceptionally committed and generous committee.
“As I hand over the role, I would like to thank the committee, the CIPR and everyone who has contributed their energy, ideas and time. I am delighted to see Paula step into the role and know she will bring great insight, momentum and care to the committee. I look forward to continuing to support the committee’s work in the years ahead.”
Paula will work alongside committee members Michael McFarland Campbell, Kaz Lynas, Suzy Spence, Claire McCrudden, Brittany Breslin, Jill McLernon, Conor Donnelly, Binu Jacob, Robert Park and Kellie-Ann Hoey as CIPR Northern Ireland continues to champion professional standards and support the region’s growing PR community.
The CIPR is the world’s only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations practitioners, dedicated to advancing professionalism, standards and education across the PR and communications industry.
It supports members through training, professional development, networking and industry guidance, while promoting ethical practice and excellence in communications.
The CIPR Northern Ireland Group represents more than 250 public relations professionals in Northen Ireland, from students and early-career practitioners to senior leaders across the industry.
The committee delivers training, networking and industry events, alongside access to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), exclusive member benefits and strong links with CIPR-approved university courses, helping to support the next generation of PR professionals.
The group provides an important platform for practitioners across Northern Ireland to connect, share knowledge and develop their careers, with membership in the region continuing to grow steadily.