27 May 2025

PRII announces CEO Dr Martina Byrne to step down

PRII has announced that Dr Martina Byrne will step down as Chief Executive Officer at the end of July to pursue new professional opportunities.

Dr Byrne has provided strategic leadership to the Institute, which represents professionals across the public relations and communications profession nationwide, for the past eight years.

The recruitment process to appoint the next Chief Executive of the Institute is ongoing, led by the PRII National Council in partnership with executive search firm Morgan McKinley.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr Martina Byrne said:

"I am really proud of all that we’ve achieved during my tenure. We have grown membership and financial reserves significantly, expanded our services and professional development offer, introduced a Membership Assistance Programme and, in the past year alone, launched AI Guidelines and training, the PRII Communication Impact Awards and a successful digital transformation.

I am grateful for the support of the PRII membership, the Executive Team, and the National Council throughout my years with the Institute and I will work towards a smooth and effective transition over the coming months.

It has been a privilege to serve a profession that contributes so much to the success of organisations, large and small. This was not an easy decision, though I am excited to have the opportunity to realise a new ambition.”

The President of the National Council, Paul Hand, thanked Martina for her contribution to the Institute and wished her every success in the future.

“On behalf of the PRII National Council, and on my own behalf, I wish to pay tribute to Martina Byrne for an outstanding eight years as CEO of the Institute. Under her leadership, the PRII has never been stronger in terms of membership numbers, education and training offerings, impactful events, financial strength, and strategic direction."

“With the help of the talented PRII team, Martina has made a significant contribution to the elevation of the public relations and communications sector in Ireland’s economic, social, political, and cultural life. We wish her well in her future endeavours and warmly welcome her continued commitment to champion our proud profession.”