Women in Public Affairs reveals annual sponsors for 2025

Engineering firm Arup, strategic communications firm DGA, and recruitment firm Melbury Wood, sign on as WiPA’s annual sponsors 

The Women in Public Affairs’ (WiPA) network is pleased to announce Arup, DGA, and Melbury Wood as their headline annual sponsors for 2025.

In its 13th year, WiPA’s annual sponsors will play an important role in enhancing its activity under new Chair Lizzy Tomlin. The sponsorship will support the Executive Committee elevate its offering to its ever-growing network, amplify their pay transparency campaign, and support the growth of new regional networks including an international expansion with WiPA Brussels.  

In addition to its annual sponsors, WiPA will continue to work with the wide range of organisations that have supported its activity over the years. This includes its flagship Christmas and summer parties, speed mentoring, and Party Conference events.  

Last year was another record year for WiPA. The network grew to an incredible 2,500 members, held 24 (often sold out) events, and launched its Pay Negotiation Guide as part of its wider Pay and Progression Toolkit. 2024 also marked the expansion of the WiPA network into Wales, with the launch of WiPA Cymru. 

Lizzy Tomlin, Chair of WiPA, said: “We are delighted to have Arup, DGA, and Melbury Wood as our headline sponsors for 2025. They have been long-standing supporters of WiPA over the years and their support will be invaluable as we look to further support and inspire those who work in the public affairs industry. Our activity in 2025 will build on last year’s fantastic momentum with plans to hold larger events for more members, launching our next guide in the Pay and Progression Toolkit, and expanding our reach to public affairs professionals across the UK and in Brussels.”

Stephanie Howell, Head of Public Affairs at Arup, said: “Arup is proud to support Women in Public Affairs as a headline sponsor for 2025. WiPA has made such an impact in the industry so far and I’m excited to help build on this important work, as there is still so much to do to enhance diversity in public policy and leadership.”

Katherine Morgan, Partner & Europe Head of Public Affairs at DGA, said: “DGA is proud to be sponsoring the WIPA Network and all the great work they do again this year. WIPA plays a critical role in encouraging more women into public affairs, facilitating their progression, tackling the challenges they face and driving a more diverse industry. We are looking forward to supporting WIPA in this important work and seeing it go from strength to strength in 2025.”

Amandeep Gill, Founding Partner of Melbury Wood, said: “We're proud to continue our partnership with Women in Public Affairs (WIPA). We remain deeply committed to supporting WIPA's mission of championing the vital role of women in public affairs. Empowering and amplifying women's voices in this sector is critical to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and positive change in our communities. As steadfast advocates for equality and opportunity, we are honoured to stand alongside WIPA in driving progress, celebrating achievements, and building a brighter future for women in public affairs.”