The UK’s largest communications trade body, the Chartered Institute for Public Relations, has announced the election of Sally Sykes as President for 2012.

The CIPR’s elections saw a close-fought campaign between Sally and Rob Brown, managing director of Staniforth, with Sykes winning 56% of members’ votes.

Sally is a Fellow of the CIPR and served as Treasurer in 2010. She is currently the communications director at the Health and Safety Executive. The incoming President, Paul Mylrea, who will take up his post on 1 January 2011 as Sally starts her term as President-Elect, praised her tireless work for the Institute.

“I am honoured to take on the presidency during 2012, which promises to be a special year for the UK,” said Sally.

Elections were also held for seven seats on the CIPR’s council. These have been filled by Jane Cumming, Sarah Hall, Stephen Waddington, Liam Fitzpatrick, Natasha Tobin, Pamela Mounter, and Stuart Ross. 5,469 votes were cast by members of the Institute.