The 250-strong Women in PR (WPR) group, led by Fuel PR managing director Gillian Waddell, resigned from the CIPR last Thursday.
Waddell said: 'We held an EGM to discuss the future of WPR against a background of long-term concerns. Our members think there are few attempts at proactivity.'
CIPR president Jay O'Connor responded: 'Women in PR has a long history as a social, independent group and we respect their decision to become independent once again. As for the criticisms, we listen to feedback and we will respond where appropriate, in a constructive manner.
‘What I would say is that the CIPR has a crystal clear view on its plans to support members and the profession and we are delivering on this. We know exactly where we are going and are working hard to communicate this to members. We will keep talking to members and we will continue with our plans.'
