Playtime PR has announced Ceriann Smith is stepping into the role of managing director, further elevating the leadership role she has been playing at the heart of the agency since 2016. Founder Lesley Singleton will continue to lead the agency alongside Ceriann.
Most recently, Ceriann held the role of director of strategy & creative at Playtime, where she was instrumental in guiding the agency’s strategic evolution, driving creative innovation, shaping its values-led culture and playing a pivotal role in achieving B Corp certification. She has led on flagship client accounts including Wow! Stuff, Epoch Making Toys and Moose Toys, and is widely respected for her clarity of thinking, collaborative leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence. Prior to joining Playtime, Ceriann co-headed the Manchester office of leading broadcast PR agency, Markettiers, delivering high-profile campaigns for clients such as MoneySupermarket, The Co-operative Bank, Homebase and Argos. With more than 20 years in PR, she is a well-known and trusted presence across both the toy and communications industries.
“Ceriann and I are already true partners in play across all aspects of the agency. This role reflects the step up she’s taken and the impact she makes every single day”
In her new role as MD, Ceriann will lead on client delivery, team development, and the continued evolution of Playtime’s services. She will work closely with Lesley to co-steer the agency’s direction and uphold the high standards of creativity, ethics and effectiveness that underpin its work. Lesley’s focus remains on the business’s operations, finance, resourcing, HR, systems, legal oversight and strategic planning. She will continue being actively involved in senior counsel, innovation, risk management and maintaining the agency’s presence, relationships and partnerships across the industry.
Lesley Singleton said: “Ceriann and I are already true partners in play across all aspects of the agency. This role reflects the step up she’s taken and the impact she makes every single day. She’s a brilliant thinker, a natural leader, and someone who balances sharp strategy with genuine care for our team, our clients and the work itself. I’m so proud to see her move into this new role and I know she will bring even more of her generous heart and humanity to it. Together we’ll maintain hands-on roles, with distinct remits that reflect our strengths and vision for the business.”
Ceriann said: “Playtime has always been a special agency to be part of: values-led, creatively ambitious and full of brilliant people who are given ultimate flexibility and balance to bring their very best to the table. I’m excited to step into this role and continue building on everything we’ve created so far. Lesley and I have a strong, collaborative partnership and a shared vision. I’m looking forward to what’s next.”
Playtime PR specialises in toys, games and play, working with a wide range of leading brands on impactful, sales-driving campaigns and activations across the UK.
