CIPR terminates the membership of Kerry Sheehan
The Chartered Institute of Public Relations' (CIPR) independent Professional Standards Panel met in October 2023 to consider a confidential report concerning Kerry Sheehan. The Panel is made up of a mix of CIPR members and lay members with experience in hearing complaints in professional associations.
The Panel was satisfied that the evidence in the report showed that on several occasions, Ms Sheehan had acted in a manner that failed to maintain the CIPR Code of Conduct.
The Panel resolved to terminate the membership of Kerry Sheehan, formerly a Fellow of the Institute and a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner. This decision was made under the provisions for a summary hearing set out in section 14 (3) of the Institute's regulations. Ms Sheehan had the right to appeal against this decision, but did not do so.
Following the termination of her membership, the CIPR Board of Directors has also decided to revoke the Sir Stephen Tallents Medal, awarded to Ms Sheehan in 2020.
About the Chartered Institute of Public Relations
Founded in 1948, the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) is the world's only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations practitioners with over 10,000 members.
The CIPR advances professionalism in public relations by making its members accountable to their employers and the public through a code of conduct and searchable public register, setting standards through training, qualifications, awards and the production of best practice and skills guidance, facilitating Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and awarding Chartered Public Relations Practitioner status (Chart.PR).