The initiative is part of the PPA’s strategy to encourage more inclusivity of younger voices across the special interest and magazine media sector and help shape the future of the industry.

Smosarski will be joined by Adrian Newton, Commercial Director, New Scientist; Jackie Scully, Executive Director, Think; Stuart Forrest, Global SEO Director, Bauer; Sophie Eke, Chief Marketing Officer, ARC; and Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA, as mentors for the PPA Next Gen Board members.

Lisa Smosarski, Editorial Director, Stylist commented: “Fostering talent is essential for securing the future of our industry. This initiative looks to tackle some of the challenges facing our sector from a new perspective, and I’m thrilled to be involved. Our goal is to inspire action that is driven by our next generation of leaders.”

Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA added: “Lisa is an important voice in the media industry, and has been part of our next gen programme and awards for a number of years. Her experience and knowledge will help develop this new set of leaders to champion our trusted editorial brands. I’m looking forward to working with Lisa, our mentors and the Next Gen Board to generate new and exciting programmes for our sector.”

Last month the PPA launched its Find Yourself in Publishing initiative to promote roles and opportunities in the sector to those making career choices – a project that was driven by the PPA’s Next Gen Board.

You can find out more about the Next Gen Board, including members, here.