RPS : Alistair Kingston appointed to board of peak Australasian engagement body, IAP2

Alistair Kingston has been appointed to the International Association of Public Participation's (IAP2) Australasian Board of Directors.

As Executive General Manager, Alistair manages RPS consultants delivering communications and engagement, data analytics, design and visualisation services across Australia Asia Pacific.

'Given the key function IAP2 performs as a professional body and advocate for engagement professionals, I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back to a profession that has been so incredibly rewarding for me over the years,' said Alistair.

'It's been amazing to watch, and be part of, the evolution of community engagement in Australia. Back in the 90s and early 2000s, consultation mostly took place via press release. Now genuine community engagement and the insights it provides are an integral and valued part of all major projects and initiatives.

'I'm gratified to become part of an organisation that plays such a significant role in championing and professionalising the community engagement practice.'

Alistair paid tribute to outgoing IAP2 Deputy Chair and RPS National Lead Communications and Engagement Mandi Davidson, who has just completed her maximum six-year term on the IAP2 Australasian board.

[Link]

Alistair Kingston to take on Board role with peak industry body, the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Australasia.

Starting his 20+ year career as a TV journalist in Queensland, Alistair moved into corporate and media relations, before joining RPS and beginning his career as an engagement practitioner back in the mid-2000s. Since then, he's designed, delivered, and led engagement programs on many major projects along Australia's east coast - including many of Sydney and Melbourne's city-shaping transport initiatives.

Alistair's appointment is a continuation of RPS' more than 20 years of leadership in the Australian engagement space (with a particular focus on infrastructure engagement), and its longstanding relationship with IAP2.

'For many years, RPS has looked to IAP2 to support the professional development of our people and equip them with the skills they need to confidently engage with community members and stakeholders on our projects,' he said.

'I'm excited by the opportunity to contribute to IAP2's continued success and the role that it plays advocating for our profession around Australia, and internationally.'

Discover more about IAP2's mission and work at www.iap2.org.au