James Ray, Chief Executive Officer of Armadillo, has been appointed as the new IPA Chair for England and Wales following the IPA Council meeting on Thursday 19 September. He succeeds Richard Aldiss, formerly of McCann Manchester, in the role.
As IPA Chair for England & Wales, James will act as a figurehead for IPA member agencies in England (outside London) and in Wales, working closely with the team of IPA City Heads to champion the outstanding talent in the advertising community and support Josh Krichefski’s People First agenda as IPA President. James’ agenda as IPA Chair for England & Wales will be announced in 2025.
Since 2022, James has served as IPA City Head for Bristol, Cardiff and the South West, providing a voice for IPA members in the area and helping the IPA to support agencies through challenging business conditions. His successor as City Head for Bristol, Cardiff and the South West will be announced at a later date.
"I’m immensely proud to be taking the baton from Richard as the IPA Chair for England and Wales. In a time of both opportunity and challenge for the marketing and advertising industry, I’m looking forward to supporting our fantastic group of City Heads, as we work to channel the IPA’s support for our member agencies outside of London."
"I’m delighted that James Ray will be the new IPA Chair for England & Wales. He has been an excellent supporter and champion of our members in Bristol, Cardiff and the South West during his time as City Head and I have no doubt he’ll bring the same commitment and passion to his new role as Chair for England & Wales. I’d also like to thank Richard for all his efforts during his tenure."
James Ray is Chief Executive Officer of Armadillo, the award-winning, independent CRM agency headquartered in Bristol, whose clients include McDonald's, Disney, Greene King, P&O Cruises and Cunard.
Joining Armadillo in 1996, James rose from Account Executive through to Managing Director, and in 2017 he became CEO after leading a successful management buy-out. His expert knowledge and drive have seen him spearhead Armadillo’s evolution into one of the UK’s most successful independent CRM specialists.
James served as IPA City Head for Bristol, Cardiff and the South West from 2022-24, before being named IPA Chair for England & Wales in September 2024.
With a hybrid of skills and experience covering data, planning, and client service, James is a leader who delivers inspired strategic direction with a down-to-earth attitude.