IPA Appoints Simon Bollon and Penny Took as Leeds, Birmingham Heads

Key Points

• The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) has announced two major regional leadership appointments.
• Simon Bollon, Founder and Managing Director of Boutique, becomes the new IPA City Head for Leeds and Yorkshire, succeeding Alex Uprichard.
• Penny Took, CEO of Mediaplus Connect, is appointed IPA City Head for Birmingham and the Midlands, succeeding the late Gareth Evans.
• Both city heads will act as regional figureheads to represent and strengthen the advertising community across their respective areas.
• The appointments were confirmed by Tom Mott, IPA’s Director of Membership.
• The appointments aim to drive collaboration, mentorship, knowledge sharing, and creative industry development at the regional level.
• The IPA paid tribute to the late Gareth Evans for his service and contribution to the Midlands advertising community.

Who are the new IPA city heads for Birmingham and Leeds?

The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) has formally appointed Simon Bollon and Penny Took as new regional city heads, according to a report published by LBBOnline on 6 January 2026.

Simon Bollon, who serves as the Founder and Managing Director of Boutique, will now hold the position of IPA City Head for Leeds and Yorkshire. He succeeds Alex Uprichard, who has been a driving force in developing the region’s advertising sector.

Meanwhile, Penny Took, CEO of Mediaplus Connect, steps into the role of IPA City Head for Birmingham and the Midlands, following the passing of Gareth Evans, who was widely respected and admired for his contributions to the IPA and the Midlands creative community.

What will their roles as city heads involve?

As outlined by the IPA and reported by LBBOnline, both newly appointed city heads will act as regional ambassadors for the advertising and marketing communication industry. Their responsibilities include:

• Advocating for creative excellence across agencies.
• Promoting collaboration and best practices between agencies, businesses, and educators.
• Encouraging continuous professional development among IPA members.
• Representing regional concerns and insights in national IPA decision-making.

They will also work closely with other IPA city heads and national chairs across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to shape broader strategic initiatives for the advertising industry.

According to the IPA’s official announcement, Simon and Penny will “champion the outstanding talent in the advertising community and drive collaboration, thought leadership and engagement within their regions.”

What did Simon Bollon say about his appointment?

As reported by LBBOnline, Simon Bollon expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to strengthen collaboration within the northern advertising landscape.

He stated:

“The IPA plays a vital role in setting the high standards our industry aspires to and in supporting agencies across every aspect of their journey. I’m delighted to be able to contribute to that work.”

He added that his philosophy centres around cooperation and collective progress, remarking:

“I’ve long believed that agencies thrive when they collaborate, share knowledge and support one another. That collective spirit is what creates a vibrant, resilient and truly robust industry. I’m excited to help champion that approach across Leeds and Yorkshire.”

Bollon has been an active figure in the Leeds advertising scene, known for supporting smaller agencies and pushing for more cross-industry engagement throughout Yorkshire. His appointment indicates IPA’s continued investment in regional inclusivity within the UK’s advertising and media ecosystem.

What did Penny Took say on being appointed as Birmingham and Midlands city head?

CEO of Mediaplus Connect, Penny Took, echoed Bollon’s sentiments about collaboration. In remarks published by LBBOnline, she said:

“As part of a team that is already hugely proud to be Platinum-accredited by the IPA, I am excited to take on the role of City Head for Birmingham and The Midlands.”

She elaborated on her plans to nurture creative talent and enhance regional impact:

“I look forward to collaborating with regional colleagues, sharing ideas, and shining a spotlight on the exceptional talent, thinking and work coming out of our area.”

Took’s appointment is seen as a continuation of the Midlands’ long-standing commitment to innovation and excellence in advertising. Her leadership is expected to foster connections between Birmingham’s growing creative agencies and the wider national network supported by the IPA.

How did the IPA respond to these appointments?

In an official statement cited by LBBOnline, Tom Mott, the IPA’s Director of Membership, congratulated both newly appointed leaders, saying:

“I am delighted that Simon and Penny have agreed to be our new city heads for Leeds and Birmingham and am excited to work with them in the coming months.”

Mott further emphasised the critical importance of regional leadership within the IPA’s ongoing strategy:

“They will play key roles in helping us grow and support the vibrant agency communities in their regions.”

He expressed gratitude to outgoing city head Alex Uprichard, acknowledging her dedicated service during her tenure leading Leeds and Yorkshire.

How did the IPA honour the memory of Gareth Evans?

The announcement also carried a moment of reflection and remembrance for Gareth Evans, the late IPA City Head for Birmingham and the Midlands. As reported by LBBOnline, Tom Mott commented:

“On a personal note, we were all devastated by the recent news of Gareth’s passing. He was a much-loved member of the IPA family and will be missed dearly by so many.”

Evans’ legacy continues to shape the regional industry, with peers describing him as an influential mentor known for his dedication to nurturing agency growth across the Midlands. His work set a foundation for what the IPA leadership in the region hopes to continue under Took’s stewardship.

What is the IPA and why are city heads important?

The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) is the UK’s professional body representing advertising, media, and marketing communications agencies. With over 300 member companies, it plays a central role in defining industry standards, offering training and accreditation, and advocating for ethical practices and effectiveness in advertising.

City heads serve as local ambassadors, bridging the gap between regional agencies and the IPA’s national mission. They provide localised leadership—organising events, advocating for talent development, and ensuring that creative standards remain consistent across the country.

According to the IPA, the city head system helps strengthen regional representation within a London-centric industry, ensuring that voices from Leeds, Birmingham, and other major cities are equally influential in national discussions on industry challenges and opportunities.

What impact could these appointments have on the UK advertising landscape?

Industry experts suggest these appointments mark a continued focus on regional creative empowerment. Leeds and Birmingham have become vital hubs for advertising and marketing innovation, attracting brands seeking talent and affordability outside the London market.

By appointing experienced professionals such as Bollon and Took, the IPA underlines its commitment to cultivating regional centres of excellence. Analysts believe this will encourage smaller agencies to engage more deeply with the IPA and its training and development programmes.

Both appointments coincide with the IPA’s ongoing efforts to broaden industry inclusivity, sustainability, and digital transformation initiatives, aligning each region’s growth with national objectives.